Chania’s White Mountains Safari Tour promises an immersive experience for those seeking to uncover Crete’s culinary and agricultural heritage. At just £114.17 per person, this full-day excursion takes visitors on a journey through the region’s breathtaking landscapes, ancient olive groves, and local wine and olive oil production. With knowledgeable guides leading the way and a maximum group size of five, travelers can expect an authentic and personalized adventure. But the true gem lies in the surprises that await those who embark on this captivating tour.
Key Points
- A full-day excursion that includes an off-road adventure through the scenic White Mountains, with olive oil and wine tastings, and a traditional Cretan lunch.
- Pickup service from hotels within a 25km radius of Chania, providing convenience for travelers.
- Knowledgeable English and Greek-speaking guides who share insights into the region’s culinary and agricultural heritage.
- Visits to a 3,000-5,000-year-old olive tree and a local winery to enhance appreciation for Crete’s food and wine culture.
- Positive reviews highlighting the tour’s well-planned itinerary, excellent food, and skilled driver-host.
Tour Overview
The Chania: White Mountains Safari Tour is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on an off-road adventure through the stunning landscapes of Crete’s White Mountains.
Priced from £114.17 per person, this 8-hour tour has a group size limited to 5 participants and is led by live guides fluent in English and Greek.
Pickup is available from hotels within a 25km radius of Chania. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
With a stellar 4.9/5 rating based on 46 reviews, this tour promises an immersive experience, including olive oil and wine tastings, a traditional Cretan lunch, and sightseeing at historic sites like a 3,000-5,000-year-old olive tree.
Itinerary Highlights
This tour starts with pickups from designated locations around Chania, including Kolymvari, Daratsos, Maleme, and more.
It then takes visitors to the ancient olive tree in Ano Vouves, where they’ll learn about olive oil production.
Next up is Anoskeli for olive oil and wine tastings, sampling 5 different wines.
The highlight is the Omalos Plateau, offering scenic views and a traditional Cretan lunch.
Guests will enjoy an off-road adventure, sightseeing, and tasting local products throughout the day.
Whether you’re interested in history, food, or simply taking in the stunning landscape, this tour promises an immersive experience in Crete’s White Mountains.
Inclusions
This tour includes a lunch at the Samaria Gorge entrance, along with one round of wine or beer and a dessert. Visitors will also enjoy wine and olive oil tastings, as well as coffee, tea, or fresh orange juice, and bottled water throughout the day. Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a local driver-host, liability insurance, and local taxes, is also provided, and tips are included in the price.
| Inclusions |
|---|
| Lunch at Samaria Gorge Entrance |
| 1 Round of Wine or Beer |
| Dessert |
| Wine and Olive Oil Tastings |
| Coffee, Tea, or Fresh Orange Juice |
| Bottled Water |
Important Information
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended items to bring on this tour.
The White Mountains Safari Tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.
If you have any dietary restrictions, such as being vegetarian or having food allergies, be sure to let the tour organizers know in advance so they can adjust the menu accordingly.
Pets aren’t allowed on this tour.
This safari adventure is designed for a specific group size, limited to 5 participants, and the tour is conducted in both English and Greek.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so plan accordingly.
Customer Feedback
Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, excellent food, beautiful scenery, and well-planned itineraries of the White Mountains Safari Tour.
Customers rave about the tour, with many praising the skilled driver-host who provided fascinating insights into the region.
The traditional Cretan lunch at the Samaria Gorge entrance received high praise, as did the wine and olive oil tastings.
Some guests suggested more photo stops to capture the stunning landscapes fully.
Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup from designated locations throughout the Chania region, covering an area from 10 kilometers east to 25 kilometers west of the city.
This includes popular tourist areas like Chania, Kolymvari, Daratsos, Maleme, Agia Marina, Platanias, Kalyves, and Stalos.
The tour company has set up a convenient pickup system to ensure all participants can easily join the excursion, no matter where they’re staying.
This level of accessibility is appreciated by travelers who don’t want the hassle of finding their own way to the starting point.
With pickup included, guests can sit back, relax, and let the tour take care of the transportation logistics.
Olive Oil and Wine Tastings
After being picked up from their hotels, travelers embark on a journey to explore the region’s rich culinary and agricultural heritage, starting with stops at two renowned local producers – Ano Vouves and Anoskeli.
At Ano Vouves, they marvel at a 3,000-5,000-year-old olive tree and learn about the intricate process of olive oil production.
Moving on, the tour reaches Anoskeli, where guests indulge in an olive oil and wine tasting experience. They sample five distinct wines, each uniquely crafted to showcase the terroir of the region.
This immersive experience allows travelers to deepen their appreciation for the local flavors and gain a deeper understanding of Crete’s vibrant food and wine culture.
Traditional Cretan Lunch
Lunch at the Omalos Plateau offers travelers a chance to savor the traditional flavors of Crete. The meal, prepared with locally sourced ingredients, showcases the region’s culinary heritage and allows guests to enjoy the authentic Cretan dining experience.
Diners can expect a spread of classic dishes, like hearty stews, fresh salads, and fragrant rice dishes. The highlight is the opportunity to taste locally produced wines, olive oils, and other artisanal products.
This convivial lunch break not only satisfies the palate but also provides a deeper understanding of Crete’s rich food culture. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with the land, and appreciate the simple pleasures of traditional Cretan hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour includes restroom breaks. The tour description states that the itinerary allows for stops, so participants likely have opportunities to use the restroom during the 8-hour tour. The guide likely plans for appropriate breaks.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?
Yes, you can take photos and videos during the tour. The tour description states that the scenic landscapes provide great photo opportunities. Just be mindful not to disrupt the group or block others’ views while taking pictures.
Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour is not accessible for people with disabilities. It specifically states that it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Pregnant women are also not advised to participate.
How Do I Get to the Meeting Point if I’m Not Staying at a Hotel?
The tour doesn’t offer pick-up options for those not staying at hotels. You’ll need to make your own way to the designated meeting point. The company suggests contacting them directly to discuss transportation options if you’re not near a hotel.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code is casual and comfortable. Wear sturdy shoes for the off-road adventure, and bring a sun hat and sunglasses to protect against the elements. Dress in layers as the weather can be variable in the mountains.
Recap
The White Mountains Safari Tour offers an immersive experience that showcases Crete’s rich culinary and agricultural heritage.
With visits to an ancient olive tree, olive oil and wine tastings, and a traditional Cretan lunch, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized and memorable experience for those seeking to explore the breathtaking beauty of Chania.
