Exploring the idyllic islands off the coast of Crete is a must-do for any traveler. This full-day tour from Chania takes you to two of the region’s most stunning beaches – Elafonisi and Falasarna. You’ll admire the breathtaking landscapes, indulge in local snacks, and learn about the ancient olive tree at Ano Vouves. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this shared tour makes it easy to discover the natural wonders that draw visitors from around the world. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this excursion promises an unforgettable day in one of Greece’s most captivating destinations.
Key Points
- This shared tour from Chania visits the stunning beaches of Elafonisi and Falasarna, with a guided tour and food tasting at the ancient olive tree in Ano Vouves.
- The tour duration is 10 to 10.5 hours, with a price starting from €98 per person, and runs on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
- Amenities include hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi, USB ports, portable beach umbrellas, and sunbeds, as well as a snack box featuring regional cuisine.
- Ample time is provided for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the unique pink sands of Elafonisi and the turquoise waters of Falasarna.
- The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, as it includes a 500-meter walk and may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
Tour Overview
The tour, titled ‘From Chania: Elafonisi & Falasarna Shared Tour with Snacks,’ offers a comprehensive exploration of two renowned beaches in Crete, spanning a duration of 10 to 10.5 hours.
Priced from €98.00 per person, this shared tour is likely to sell out quickly, with options available every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Catering to both English and German speakers, the tour has a group size of up to 15 participants.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable live guide, and a snack box featuring local cuisine.
Itinerary Highlights
During the tour, guests will be picked up from Chania and Platanias, with the first stop being Topolia for a 10-minute break and photo opportunity.
Afterward, they’ll spend 2.5 hours exploring the breathtaking Elafonisi Beach, known for its unique pink sands and shallow lagoons, before moving on to the famous Falasarna Beach for 2 hours of free time and swimming in the striking turquoise waters.
The final stop will be at Ano Vouves, home to the oldest olive tree in the world, where travelers will enjoy a guided tour, food tasting, and another photo stop for 45 minutes.
Beach Experiences
Elafonisi Beach is renowned for its distinctive pink sands and shallow, wading-friendly lagoons, making it an ideal destination for families.
Falasarna Beach, on the other hand, captivates visitors with its blinding white sand and striking turquoise waters.
Lastly, the tour also includes a stop at Ano Vouves, home to the world’s oldest olive tree, where guests can partake in a guided tour and food tasting.
The tour offers a well-rounded beach experience:
- Elafonisi: Unique pink sands and shallow lagoons
- Falasarna: Famous for its white sand and turquoise water
- Ano Vouves: Guided tour and food tasting at the oldest olive tree
- Ample time for swimming and sunbathing at both beaches
Tour Inclusions
This shared tour from Chania includes an array of amenities to enhance the overall experience.
Guests receive hotel pickup and drop-off, traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging ports.
Live tour guides provide local history presentations, and a snack box featuring regional cuisine is also included.
Soft drinks, beer, wine, and bottled water are provided throughout the day.
The tour further includes portable beach umbrellas and sunbeds, ensuring a comfortable experience at both Elafonisi and Falasarna beaches.
Plus, the tour is covered by insurance, offering peace of mind to travelers.
With these comprehensive inclusions, the From Chania: Elafonisi & Falasarna Shared Tour provides a well-rounded and hassle-free day trip.
Important Information
Travelers should bring essential items like sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable experience on the tour. Appropriate clothing and sun protection are recommended for the tour.
While the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, a 500-meter walk from the parking area to Elafonisi beach is required due to protected area regulations. Accessibility is limited for those with mobility issues.
Guests originating from the Venetian harbor and old city will be picked up from the nearest bus stop accessible by the minibus. Pickup locations may vary for guests based on their starting point.
Customer Reviews
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the tour, with an impressive 5/5 rating based on over 100 reviews.
Guides were consistently highlighted for their extensive knowledge and enthusiastic delivery of local history, while the comfortable transportation and well-organized itinerary also received positive feedback.
Travelers were particularly impressed with their experiences at both Elafonisi and Falasarna beaches, with many providing recommendations for future visitors.
Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup locations in Chania and Platanias, allowing for convenient access from various areas. Guests staying in the Venetian harbor and old city will be picked up from the nearest bus stop accessible by minibus, ensuring a seamless start to the tour.
The pickup locations provide flexibility for travelers, catering to their specific needs and locations. The key pickup points are:
- Chania
- Platanias
- Nearest bus stop for Venetian harbor and old city guests
- Accessible by air-conditioned minibus for a comfortable journey.
This thoughtful approach to pickup locations demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to providing a hassle-free experience for all participants.
Drop-off Locations
At the end of the tour, guests are dropped off either at Platanias or back in Chania, allowing for a convenient return to their starting point or accommodation.
For those staying in the Venetian harbor or old city, the minibus will drop them off at the nearest bus stop accessible by the vehicle.
This ensures a seamless end to the day’s adventure, with travelers able to continue their explorations or head back to their hotels with ease.
The drop-off locations are well-chosen to provide maximum convenience, complementing the overall organization and efficiency of this shared tour experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
While guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours, it’s best to check with the tour operator first. Some may provide snacks and refreshments as part of the package, making outside items unnecessary.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour does not provide discounts for children or seniors. The per-person price is the same regardless of age. However, children under 6 may be able to join the tour for free.
What Is the Maximum Luggage Size Allowed on the Tour?
The tour does not specify a maximum luggage size. However, as it involves beach visits, travelers are advised to pack lightly and only bring essential items they can comfortably carry themselves. Larger suitcases may be inconvenient during the tour activities.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Beaches Beyond the Allotted Time?
Customers can extend their stay at the beaches, but they’ll need to coordinate with the tour guide. Staying past the allotted time may impact the overall tour schedule and the ability to visit other stops.
Do I Need to Be Able to Swim to Participate in This Tour?
No, you don’t need to be able to swim to participate in this tour. The beaches have shallow, calm waters suitable for non-swimmers. However, you should still exercise caution and be prepared to get wet.
Recap
The ‘From Chania: Elafonisi & Falasarna Shared Tour With Snacks’ offers a chance to explore Crete’s breathtaking beaches and historical sites.
Visitors can enjoy the stunning pink sands of Elafonisi, the turquoise waters of Falasarna, and the ancient Ano Vouves olive tree, all while indulging in regional snacks and benefiting from convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
This full-day excursion is a great way to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Crete.
