Laganas: Off-Road Buggy Adventure in Zakynthos with Lunch

Imagine zooming along dusty trails, weaving through lush forests, and stopping at breathtaking viewpoints—then cooling off with a swim in crystal-clear waters—all in one day. That’s exactly what the Laganas Off-Road Buggy Adventure offers, with a mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and authentic Greek cuisine. For around $395 per group (up to two people), you get a full six-hour experience exploring the less-trodden parts of Zakynthos, guided by friendly locals who seem genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their island.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to drive your own Polaris RZR off-road, which is as fun as it sounds—think bumpy rides that give you a real sense of adventure. Second, the delicious traditional Greek lunch served in a quiet village under shady trees, a genuine taste of local life. That said, a consideration for some travelers is the dust and dirt—be prepared to get a little messy. This tour suits those who enjoy an active day, love scenic viewpoints, and don’t mind a bit of dust and sun.

You’ll want to be comfortable with driving a buggy and bringing your driver’s license, but the fun and views make it more than worth it. Perfect for adventure seekers, small groups, and those eager to see the island’s hidden corners away from busy crowds—based on glowing reviews, this trip truly delivers a memorable day.

Key Points

• Authentic Off-Road Experience: Drive your own Polaris RZR through varied terrain, with knowledgeable guides leading the way.
• Stunning Viewpoints & Photo Stops: Capture memorable photos at Mizithres viewpoint, Turtle Island, and other scenic spots.
• Relaxing Swimming Break: Enjoy a swim at Korakonisi, a pristine, ruggedly beautiful cove.
• Cultural & Culinary Touch: Savor a homemade Greek lunch in a quiet, picturesque village.
• Small Group Adventure: Limited to two participants, offering personalized attention and flexibility.
• Full Day of Fun & Exploration: Around 80 km of driving, mostly off-road, wrapped up with plenty of authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Basics: What to Expect

This Laganas-based tour takes you on a roughly six-hour journey into the heart of Zakynthos’s wild side. Starting early at 8:00am, you’ll meet your guides—who, from reviews, seem super friendly and well-informed—and gear up with protective eyewear and bandanas. After a quick briefing, at 8:30am, the adventure begins.

Your main activity involves driving your own Polaris RZR, a powerful off-road buggy. For those unfamiliar, it’s a thrilling way to navigate rough terrain—think bumpy trails, forest paths, and scenic dirt roads—without the hassle of feeling crowded or rushed. The guides, such as Janus and Gina from reviews, lead the way, sharing local stories and ensuring safety. You’ll spend most of your time exploring remote spots that are simply inaccessible by regular car.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Hidden Gems

First Stop: Turtle Island Photo Opportunity

Just 20 minutes into the tour, you’ll arrive at Marathias, known for its idyllic setting. From here, you’ll get a chance to photograph Turtle Island, one of the signature sights in Zakynthos. This stop is a favorite among travelers, who enjoy the peaceful scenery and the chance to snap some shots of the surrounding waters and natural beauty.

Forest Drive & Mizithres Viewpoint

Next, you’ll traverse the dense forest of Marathias—think shady, cool trees providing relief from the sun—and arrive at the Mizithres Viewpoint. The views here are breathtaking, offering a sweeping panorama of the island’s rugged coastline and the iconic rock formations known as the Mizithres. Several reviews mention these vistas as a highlight, emphasizing their “breathtaking” and “breathtakingly beautiful” qualities.

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Vineyard and Well Stops

Continuing through lush vineyards in Agalas, you’ll pass Andronios Wells, a notable feature with a total of 11 wells, according to the tour description. While not necessarily a major sightseeing point, these stops add to the sense of authentic rural life and give you a glimpse of local agricultural life.

The Rugged Beauty of Korakonisi

Midday, you’ll arrive at Korakonisi, a strikingly rugged island where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax for about 1.5 hours. The reviews commonly describe this spot as “beautiful,” “crystal-clear,” and “peaceful,” giving you a perfect chance to cool off after a morning of off-road driving. Bring your snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater, as the waters here are reputedly very clear.

The Lunch: A Taste of Authentic Greece

Post-swim, it’s time for a home-cooked Greek lunch in Loucha, one of the oldest villages on the island. The setting is idyllic—under shady trees at a quiet farmhouse—and the food is described as generous and authentic. Reviews consistently praise the delicious homemade dishes, with Gina preparing a memorable meal of local specialties. Unlimited soft drinks and water are included, making it a true feast.

Final Drive and Return

The last leg takes you through Loucha Valley, a scenic area that closes out the day’s adventure. You’ll return to the starting point around 3:00pm, having covered approximately 80 km, with most of that off-road. Travelers often mention arriving dusty and happy, with “unforgettable memories” and a “big smile on their face.”

What We Loved

Two aspects really stood out to us. First, the off-road driving itself—this isn’t a sightseeing bus tour; it’s a hands-on experience. The guides’ knowledge about the island’s hidden spots, combined with the thrill of maneuvering the buggy over uneven terrain, makes this a genuinely engaging adventure.

Second, the lunch experience. Unlike many tours that rush you through meals or serve generic food, Gina’s homemade Greek lunch in a tranquil village setting feels authentic and heartfelt. It’s a true taste of local hospitality and cuisine, with reviews praising its quality and generosity.

A Few Considerations

A point to keep in mind is the dust and dirt. As described in reviews, “you’ll arrive full of dust,” which is part of the fun but also means wearing clothes that can get dirty and bringing swim shoes for the rocky swim spot. Also, the tour is limited to two participants, so it’s more intimate but requires booking early.

You’ll also need your driver’s license to operate the buggy and be comfortable with an active, sometimes bumpy experience. The tour excludes children under six, pregnant women, and drivers under 18, which is worth noting if traveling with family.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for adventure-loving travelers who enjoy driving, scenic viewpoints, and seeing authentic rural life. It’s ideal if you want more than just a boat or bus tour—something interactive that gets you out into the countryside. Also, it suits those who appreciate local food and culture, as the lunch is a highlight for many.

At $395 for a full six-hour experience, the cost might seem steep, but considering the personalized guides, the off-road driving, and the included meal, it delivers a lot of value. You get to cover a significant distance—around 80 km—with most of it off-road, allowing you to see parts of Zakynthos inaccessible by conventional tours.

The small group size, limited to just two, ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace—important for safety and comfort. Plus, reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who go out of their way to make the experience memorable—whether it’s sharing local stories or helping with photos.

Final Thoughts

This Laganas off-road buggy tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, scenic beauty, and culture. It’s well-suited for those who want to see the island’s hidden corners, enjoy some adrenaline, and indulge in authentic Greek cuisine—all with friendly hosts who genuinely care about your experience. If you’re after a day that combines fun driving, stunning vistas, and a taste of local life, this tour will not disappoint.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, you must bring your driver’s license to operate the buggy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Only for children over 6 years old; younger children are not allowed.

What should I wear?
Wear sports shoes, swimwear, and clothes that can get dirty, plus sunglasses and sunscreen for sun protection.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the guides speak English and Greek.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes protective eyewear, bandanas, fuel, VAT, a Greek lunch, unlimited soft drinks, and full liability insurance.

How long is the swimming stop?
Around 1.5 hours at Korakonisi, a beautiful rocky cove perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

What is the group size?
Limited to 2 participants, making it a very personalized experience.

Are the vehicles well maintained?
Based on reviews, the buggies are well maintained, providing a safe and fun ride.

What if I don’t want to drive?
The tour is designed for drivers, so you’ll need to operate the buggy yourself; passengers are not mentioned as an option.

To sum it up, the Zakynthos off-road buggy adventure offers a rare opportunity to see the island’s lesser-known sights, enjoy a full day of active exploration, and indulge in a genuine Greek meal—all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. It’s ideal for those craving a mix of adrenaline, authentic scenery, and cultural flavor, making it a standout experience worth considering on your Greek island trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: