Crete’s rugged landscapes and scenic mountain trails make it a prime destination for ATV and quad bike tours. Unlike many islands that focus on beaches and ancient ruins, Crete offers a chance to get your wheels dirty on challenging terrains, winding through canyons, crossing rivers, and exploring traditional villages. One standout is the Half-Day Quad Bike Safari from Rethymno, which combines archaeological sights with mountain adventure, making it a perfect mix of culture and adrenaline. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, Crete’s diverse scenery ensures a memorable ride. For those interested in exploring with a local guide, the Hersonissos ATV Safari features the unspoiled countryside and a traditional tavern meal, showcasing authentic Cretan flavors. If you’re after a more tailored experience, the Quad ATV Adventure in South-East Crete offers a private, longer ride through mountain villages and forests.
For the best experience, consider what kind of adventure you’re after: cultural sightseeing, scenic nature rides, or a combination of both. Crete’s ATV tours give you a fantastic way to see parts of the island most travelers never reach, all while having a lot of fun.
1. From Rethymno: Half-Day Quad Bike Safari
At number 1, the From Rethymno: Half-Day Quad Bike Safari offers a dynamic mix of mountain trails and archaeological sights. Priced at $68 per person, this tour earns a stellar 4.8 out of 5 based on over 1,191 reviews, making it one of the most highly-rated options. The tour lasts about 4 hours and includes a drive through Maroulas’ mountains, shallow waters, and canyons. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of off-road fun with cultural stops — including a traditional coffee house and the picturesque village of Prassies.
Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with one reviewer mentioning Nicos buying them a beer at the end. The route is designed to be accessible yet exciting, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. The tour is perfect for those who want a balanced experience — a bit of adventure, a dash of local flavor, and a lot of stunning views. Expect dusty roads, so pack clothes you don’t mind getting messy.
Bottom Line: This safari is great for travelers seeking a well-rounded, fun-filled half-day with excellent reviews, authentic stops, and reliable service. It’s ideal if you want a taste of Cretan nature along with some archaeological intrigue.
2. From Georgioupolis: Half-Day Quad ATV Safari
At number 2, the From Georgioupolis: Half-Day Quad ATV Safari is a favorite with a 4.9 rating from nearly 600 reviews and costs $73 per person. This 4-hour tour focuses on exploring the mountains and traditional villages around Georgioupolis, with plenty of panoramic views of the white mountains. The highlight here is the opportunity to switch drivers, making it suitable for groups with varied experience levels, especially if you hold a driving license and are 18+.
Tourists love this experience for its mix of adventure and culture, with reviews emphasizing safety, the well-maintained quads, and the chance to see olive oil factories, which adds an educational touch. The guide Erion is singled out for his friendliness and local knowledge, making the trip both fun and informative. The route includes off-road trails, mountain roads, and scenic stops, giving a well-rounded taste of Crete’s rural charm.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for families or friends looking for a safe, engaging, and scenic ATV adventure that balances fun with cultural discovery. It’s especially suitable if you want a guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
3. Quad ATV Safari from Georgioupolis Area
Number 3 on our list is the Quad ATV Safari from Georgioupolis Area, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 213 reviews and a price tag of about $75. This 4-hour small-group tour takes you through the rugged hills, gorges, and traditional villages of Georgioupolis, Kalyves, or Almyrida. What sets this experience apart is the attention to detail — including the flexibility to ride solo or with a passenger on a two-seater ATV, plus hotel transfers for added convenience.
The itinerary includes crossing rivers, zig-zagging along mountain tracks, and hearing stories of local culture. Reviews mention the knowledgeable guide, Odyss, who makes the experience both fun and educational, sharing insights about the land and history. Participants consistently praise the scenic routes, the well-maintained equipment, and the intimate nature of the tour, which feels personalized.
Bottom Line: For travelers who prefer a small-group experience and want to explore Crete’s off-road scenery with comfort and flexibility, this safari is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those wanting a mix of adventure and cultural stories.
4. Hersonissos: ATV Quad Bike Safari in the Mountains of Crete
Number 4, the Hersonissos ATV Safari, takes about 5 hours and costs $107. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive mountain adventure. The tour explores mountain trails and hidden paths inaccessible by regular vehicles, with an emphasis on experiencing Crete’s unspoiled countryside. The guides are praised for their charisma and storytelling, especially Andreas, who makes the journey engaging.
A highlight is the traditional home-cooked meal at a local tavern, adding a taste of local hospitality to the trip. The tour also offers the chance to see sheep grazing, admire stunning gorge views, and enjoy the tranquility of remote mountain areas. The small group size enhances the personalized feeling, making it suitable for those who like a more intimate experience.
Guests comment that the quads are safe, comfortable, and easy to operate. The tour balances adventure with culture, making it a well-rounded choice.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a longer, more immersive mountain experience with local food and scenic views, and those who value guide charisma and storytelling.
5. QUAD ATV Adventure Découvrez les panoramas du Sud-Est de la Crete
Rounding out our list at number 5 is this private group tour, costing about $225.73 for up to 15 people, and lasting approximately 5 hours. Starting from Galini, the Quad ATV Adventure in South-East Crete takes you through olive groves, mountain villages, and forests, with stops to enjoy spectacular panoramas. The guide, multilingual in French and English, ensures a personalized experience, sharing insights along the way.
This tour is best for larger groups or families who want a private adventure, and it offers a mix of off-road driving through varied terrains. Reviews highlight the group’s friendly guide and the opportunity to admire natural beauty and mountain landscapes away from crowds. The flexible schedule and scenic routes make this a good choice if you prefer a tailored experience with a more leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups or travelers who want a private, scenic ride with a focus on natural landscapes and mountain views, especially if they prefer a more exclusive outing.
How to Choose the Best ATV Tour in Crete
When selecting your ideal ATV tour, consider your budget, time, and what kind of scenery or cultural experience you prefer. For example, if you want a shorter, well-rated ride with archaeological stops, the Rethymno Safari delivers excellent value. Prefer a more immersive mountain trek with local food? The Hersonissos safari might be your best pick.
For those with a larger group seeking privacy, the South-East Crete adventure is unmatched, especially if you enjoy a personalized experience. Remember to check if a driving license is required and book early during peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Crete offers a diverse selection of ATV and quad bike tours suited to different interests. If you’re looking for a quick, fun introduction to mountain farming and archaeology, the Rethymno Safari is a top choice. For those craving more rugged exploration with authentic local food, the Hersonissos safari hits the mark. If privacy and tailored routes appeal, the South-East Crete ride offers a quiet, scenic adventure.
No matter which you pick, Crete’s varied terrains promise a memorable ride. Book early, come prepared for dirt, and get ready for a fun, active way to see the island.