Gozo Full Day Buggy Tour with Boat Ride

If you’re on the lookout for an adventurous way to experience Malta’s sister island, Gozo, this Full Day Buggy Tour with Boat Ride offers an engaging blend of off-road fun, scenic views, and cultural highlights. Priced at around $133 per group, this eight-hour excursion is perfect for those seeking a mix of adrenaline and authentic exploration. I’ve read plenty of reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the value of this experience—though a heads-up on group size and potential weather considerations is worth keeping in mind. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this tour promises a full day of memorable sights and activities.

What I really appreciate about this excursion is how it combines self-driving buggies through rugged terrain with carefully curated stops at some of Gozo’s more scenic and culturally significant sites. The tour is led by professional guides like Michael and Benny, who are praised for their safety-conscious approach and loads of local insights. Plus, the boat ride (weather permitting) adds a lovely touch, sailing past the Blue Lagoon and Comino’s cavernous caves—great for photos and that feeling of being on a real adventure. One thing to consider is that drivers must be at least 21 and fully qualified, so if you’re traveling with younger folks, this might not be suitable for children under four as passengers.

Two aspects stand out most to travelers: the diverse stops that include breathtaking cliffs, historic churches, salt pans, and beaches, and the guides’ friendly yet cautious approach. “Michael was a great tour guide and gave a lot of information about the hidden gems of Gozo every stop,” one reviewer shared. The scenery is undeniably the star, with highlights like Dwejra Bay and Ramla Bay offering Insta-worthy views. And given the feedback, the guides do a good job maintaining safety and group cohesion, earning top marks for organization and friendliness. On the flip side, some guests noted that the large group size (up to 8) could make the experience less intimate, especially when riding behind larger vehicles.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

The Scenic Variety: From the cliffs at Dwejra Bay to the red sands of Ramla Bay, each stop offers unique photo opportunities and a chance to soak in Gozo’s natural beauty. Imagine zooming along rugged paths, then stepping out to classic spots that look like they could be on a postcard. One reviewer called it “a very well-organized group of people,” and the stops led by guides like Mark and Benny add plenty of local flavor and safety.

The Balance of Adventure and Culture: Driving your own buggy means you’re active without feeling exhausted, and the stops take you into some of the island’s most picturesque corners—like Wied il-Ghasri’s dramatic gorge or the historic Church of St. John The Baptist with its massive dome. “The guides were very cautious, keeping us all safe while allowing us to enjoy the ride,” noted a visitor, illustrating that fun doesn’t come at the expense of safety. Plus, the boat rides, when weather permits, are a delightful surprise, adding a maritime dimension to your exploration that is both relaxing and scenic.

A Few Considerations

While most participants report an excellent experience, keep in mind that buggy driving requires a valid drivers license and a bit of confidence behind the wheel. It’s a hands-on activity, so if you’re uncomfortable with off-road driving or navigating a buggy, it might not be for you. Also, a large group can sometimes mean less personal space, which could be a drawback if you prefer more intimate, smaller-group tours. Weather can influence the boat ride component, so check the forecast, especially if you’re visiting in winter.

The Itinerary Breakdown — Why It Works

The Start and Pickup
The tour begins early, around 8:00 am, with pickups from Valletta via Marfa or Cirkewwa. It’s important to note that pickups aren’t always exactly at your accommodation but are arranged for ease of access. This flexibility is helpful, though it means you should double-check your pickup instructions upon booking.

Dwejra Bay
This site is a highlight, especially the Inland Sea, a natural sea pool connected by a tunnel that offers a surreal experience. You can also take the boat through the cave, which sails over the ruins of the famous Azure Window—no longer standing, but still a powerful sight. It’s about 30 minutes here, and the view is breathtaking.

Xwejni Salt Pans
A brief stop to see how salt has been harvested using traditional Phoenician methods makes for an educational peek into Gozo’s ancient practices. The chequerboard salt pans are visually striking, perfect for photography.

Ramla Bay
Famous for its red sands and expansive golden beach, Ramla Bay is ideal for a quick walk or a moment to soak in the views. The 15-minute stop is enough to enjoy the scenery and snap some photos.

Wied il-Ghasri
This secluded inlet features towering cliffs and a tiny pebbly beach, ideal for appreciating the island’s remote beauty. It’s a striking contrast to the busier beaches and a favorite among those wanting to see less touristy spots.

Xlendi Beach and Caves
A lively seaside village, Xlendi offers a dramatic cliff backdrop and caves to explore. A quick 10-minute stop allows for a window into local life and some memorable views.

St. John the Baptist and Victoria
The impressive church with Europe’s third-largest dome is worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in architecture and local craftsmanship. The optional roof walk offers a bird’s-eye glance at Gozo’s terrain. The stop here lasts about 20 minutes, leaving plenty of time to appreciate the craftsmanship and history.

Qbajjar Bay and Comino Caves
Additional stops include Qbajjar Bay, a peaceful spot for a quick respite, and a sail past the Blue Lagoon and the caves of Comino—weather dependent. If the weather holds, these photo opportunities add a special touch to the day.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural sights. The self-driving aspect makes it perfect for those comfortable behind the wheel, wanting to explore at their own pace with guidance. Families with older children (4+) can enjoy the trip, especially if they’re eager for a fun off-road experience. The guides’ professionalism and the well-organized stops cater to those who value safety and local insights.

Because of the group size (up to 8), it’s less ideal for travelers seeking complete privacy or very intimate small-group experiences. But for those who love a bit of camaraderie and shared adventure, this can create fun memories.

Is It Good Value?

At around $133 for a full day, including transport, insurance, and food tasting, this tour offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive, active day with diverse sights. The inclusion of boat trips (weather permitting) and local food tasting enriches the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s an adventure packed with variety.

To sum it up, this Gozo Full Day Buggy Tour with Boat Ride is a well-rounded way to see some of the most photogenic and interesting parts of Gozo. It’s ideal for active travelers who crave a bit of off-road excitement combined with cultural and natural highlights. The guides receive high praise for their safety and knowledge, and the scenic stops ensure you come away with memorable photos and stories. While the group size might be a consideration if you prefer more privacy, most guests find the mix of scenery, adventure, and local insight makes it one of the most worthwhile ways to spend a day on the island.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers who enjoy a practical mix of adventure and sightseeing will find this tour delightful. It suits those comfortable with driving, interested in stunning landscapes, and eager to learn about Gozo’s hidden corners. If you’re after a fun, active way to explore and don’t mind a group setting, this tour offers solid value, a professional team, and a day packed with diverse experiences.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers minivan pickups from Valletta, starting at 8:00 am. The pickup points are arranged for ease, so check your instructions after booking.

What are the requirements for drivers?
Drivers must be 21 years or older, fully qualified to drive, and show their driver’s license plus a government-issued photo ID.

Are boat rides included?
The boat transfer is included and optional, weather permitting. If the sea is rough, the boat ride might be canceled or altered.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops range from about 10 to 30 minutes, enough to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and learn from the guides without feeling rushed.

Can children participate?
Children aged 4 and older can ride as passengers. For younger kids, this might not be suitable.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers makes this experience more manageable and allows for group camaraderie.

What is the price and what does it include?
At $132.99, the price covers buggy usage, insurance, boat transfers (weather permitting), transportation to/from your accommodation, and food tasting.

Is there a dress code or special gear needed?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and closed-toe shoes are recommended. The buggy is fully automatic with seatbelts, offering safety and ease.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and fun-filled way to explore Gozo with knowledgeable guides and a touch of adventure.