Rhodes Self Drive 4×4 Safari Adventure – North pick ups

Rhodes Self Drive 4×4 Safari Adventure – North pick ups: A Genuine Off-Road Experience in Rhodes

If you’re looking to explore Rhodes beyond the typical tourist spots, this Self Drive 4×4 Safari offers a refreshing way to see the island’s unspoiled nature, mountain vistas, and charming villages. Priced at around $87.68 per person, the tour runs for approximately 9 hours and includes several scenic stops that showcase Rhodes’ diverse landscape. The journey is designed for those who enjoy off-road driving, authentic local experiences, and beautiful views—all with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

What we love most about this experience is the balance of adventure and comfort: you can relax as a passenger or try your hand at off-road driving, making it suitable for both casual explorers and thrill-seekers. The guide’s insights add a layer of authenticity, and the stop at a local family-run restaurant in Apollona provides a taste of genuine Greek hospitality.

A small caveat is that this tour involves some bumpy and dusty off-road driving, which might not appeal to everyone, especially those with mobility concerns. Also, lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry after the scenic stops. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure that mixes nature, culture, and fun — especially those eager to get off the beaten path and into Rhodes’ more rugged corners.

Key Points

• Authentic Off-Road Adventure: Explore Rhodes’ scenic hills and mountain paths at a comfortable speed, with the option to drive yourself.
• Cultural & Scenic Stops: Visit picturesque villages, mountain views, and a local family restaurant for a taste of local life.
• Flexible Experience: Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness; ability to relax or engage with off-road driving.
• Value for Money: For around $88, you get a full day of sightseeing, off-road fun, and authentic local encounters.
• Expert Guidance: Friendly guides ensure safety, share interesting insights, and enhance the experience.
• Limited Lunch Cost: Lunch is not included, but you’ll have the chance to enjoy local cuisine in Apollona.

A Practical, Authentic Slice of Rhodes

Rhodes is a relatively small island, and many of its famous sites are easily accessible on your own. But if you want a taste of adventure that takes you into the island’s less-traveled areas, this self-drive safari offers a compelling alternative. We found the itinerary well-balanced, blending off-road driving with stops in villages and mountain viewpoints, making it a full but manageable day.

How the Day Unfolds

The tour begins early, with a pick-up at 8:30 am, and sets off on an exciting journey into the hills and mountains of Rhodes. The first stop is Psinthos, where the groups from different coasts meet, and safety instructions are given. It’s a calm, friendly start, giving everyone a chance to get comfortable with the vehicles and guide.

Next, you’ll head to Dimilia, a hilltop village ideal for photos. The drive here is mostly off-road, winding through rugged terrain that rewards travelers with panoramic views and touches of local flora. The stop includes a break for coffee or ice cream, giving you a chance to soak in the peaceful village atmosphere.

Then, the tour continues to Profitis Ilias, a mountain with spectacular vistas and lush forests. The drive here is approximately an hour, mostly through forested roads, making for a refreshing change from the dusty tracks. The views are truly memorable, especially if you love sweeping landscapes and mountain scenery.

The lunch stop in Apollona is a highlight, where a family-run restaurant welcomes you for a tasty local meal. Meeting the friendly Petrides family adds a genuine touch of Rhodes’ hospitality.

After lunch, the route takes you across several villages, including Platania and Eleousa, the latter with its Italian influence. The passing through these villages offers glimpses into everyday life in Rhodes, away from the tourist crowds.

The last scenic stop is the pebbled beach at Afandou, a perfect place to cool off in the clear waters or just relax after a day of bumpy driving.

The Off-Road Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the off-road driving through Rhodes’ hills and mountain tracks. We loved the way the vehicles handled rugged terrain—it’s bumpy but manageable, and the views from the mountain roads are extraordinary. Multiple reviews mention how cool the off-road sections are, with one traveler describing it as “really very cool and sometimes a good shake-up”. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge kept the trip lively and informative.

Authentic Village Visits

Unlike typical tours that just drive past sights, this safari invites you into local villages where life moves at a gentler pace. The stop in Psinthos for safety briefing is brief but sets a friendly tone. The herb stops at Dimilia add a sensory element—smelling fresh herbs in the mountain air—and the lunch in Apollona provides a genuine taste of Greek hospitality.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

The mountain stops offer breathtaking panoramic views of Rhodes’ landscape. Several travelers have raved about these vistas, and you’ll likely want to have your camera ready. The drive through forested areas and mountain tracks** gives a different perspective of Rhodes, emphasizing its natural beauty rather than just tourist sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits travelers who enjoy adventure, like off-road driving, and want to see Rhodes from a different angle. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic interactions with local villages and are prepared for some dusty, bumpy terrain. If you’re traveling with family members or friends who enjoy group activities and are comfortable with moderate physical activity, this is a solid choice.

However, if you’re looking for a relaxed day without rough terrain, or if lunch is a must-included part of your day, this might not fit perfectly. Also, keep in mind that the vehicles are not open-top, despite some previous images suggesting they might be; newer models are closed, which could be a consideration for some.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Psinthos – The Village Meeting Point

The safari begins in Psinthos, where the groups from the west and east coasts of Rhodes converge. Here, the guides give a safety briefing near the village, setting the stage for the day ahead. It’s a brief stop with no entrance fee, but it establishes a friendly, communal atmosphere.

Stop 2: Dimilia – Village and Herb Stop

After an hour of mostly off-road driving, you arrive at Dimilia, an idyllic hillside village. This stop is ideal for photos and relaxing moments in a peaceful setting. We loved the chance to smell fresh herbs and see local flora—offering a sensory glimpse into the island’s rural side. The break here lasts about 25 minutes, enough for a coffee or ice cream.

Stop 3: Profitis Ilias – Mountain Views

Next, the tour continues to Profitis Ilias, a mountain with panoramic views and forests. The drive takes around an hour, passing through scenic mountain roads. The views from the top are breathtaking, making it a favorite stop for many travelers. The forest environment adds a refreshing contrast to the dusty tracks, and the 4×4 capabilities shine here.

Stop 4: Apollona – Lunch with a Local Family

The highlight for many is the lunch stop at Apollona. You’ll meet the friendly Petrides family who serve a tasty homemade meal. It’s a genuine opportunity to connect with local life, away from tourist spots. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the food and conversation.

Passing Villages & the Coastal Route

On the way back toward the east coast, the tour passes through traditional villages like Platania and Eleousa. The latter’s Italian influence makes it historically interesting, while Archipoli offers quick views before heading toward the Seven Springs—though these are not visited unless weather conditions prevent swimming.

Final Stop: Afandou Beach

The last stop is at Afandou’s pebbled beach, a perfect spot to cool off in the clear waters and wash away the dust from the day’s adventure. Travelers often appreciate this relaxing ending to a busy day.

Value and Practicality

While the price tag of around $87.68 might seem steep for some, it covers a full day’s worth of adventure, scenic stops, and local interactions. The inclusion of a guide, insurance, and a comfortable vehicle adds to the value, especially considering the access to off-road tracks that would be challenging to navigate on your own.

Lunch is not included, which allows flexibility—some travelers might prefer to bring snacks or plan a separate meal in one of the villages. The small group size (max 38 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, and the mobile ticket makes booking and organizing straightforward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for adventurous travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they seek off-road excitement, scenic mountain views, and genuine local encounters. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness who are okay with dust, bumps, and a bit of dirt. Families with older children, couples, or friends wanting a day full of nature and local culture will find this memorable.

If you’re after a relaxed, all-inclusive day, or prefer more structured sightseeing, you might find this tour a bit rugged. However, if your goal is to explore Rhodes from a different perspective, this safari offers a great balance of fun, scenery, and cultural insight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s a stop at a local family restaurant where you can enjoy a tasty meal.

Can I drive the 4×4 myself?
Yes, the tour offers the option to either relax as a passenger or try your hand at off-road driving.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, including travel time between stops.

Is the vehicle open-top?
No, the current vehicles are not open-top, although some older images might suggest otherwise.

What should I bring?
It’s best to wear comfortable clothing suited for dusty, bumpy terrain, and bring sunscreen, water, and sunglasses.

Are there any physical fitness requirements?
Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness to handle the off-road sections.

What is the group size?
The tour is capped at 38 travelers, ensuring a manageable and friendly group experience.

Are the stops suitable for photos?
Absolutely. The mountain views and villages provide excellent photo opportunities.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Rhodes Self Drive 4×4 Safari is a fantastic way to get off the beaten track and see Rhodes’ rugged side. It’s perfect for those who crave adventure, love scenic mountain views, and appreciate authentic village experiences. The guides’ enthusiasm and the genuine stops make it more than just a drive—they create a memorable day that combines fun with cultural insight.

If you’re visiting Rhodes and want a full-day outdoor activity that’s both exciting and enriching, this safari offers good value and authentic fun. Remember, it’s best suited for adventurous spirits ready for some dusty, bumpy roads and scenic surprises.