Rhodes offers a stunning mix of beaches, ancient ruins, and bustling towns, but if you want to see a different side of the island, the Kremasti: Rhodes 4×4 Polaris Buggy Off-Road Tour is a fantastic choice. With a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 432 reviews, this adventure promises rugged trails, spectacular scenery, and plenty of local flavor. What’s especially appealing is that you get to drive your own Polaris RZR Trail 1000, making it a more hands-on, exciting way to explore the island’s lesser-visited corners.
Two things I particularly like about this tour are the stunning vistas you’ll encounter—think dramatic coastlines and forested mountain slopes—and the authentic local tastings, which include honey, souma, and olive oil at a family farm stop. Plus, the guides, like Elias and Costas, are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the whole experience feel personalized and safe.
A potential consideration? The tour involves some dusty off-road driving, so it’s best to wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty and avoid sandals or flip-flops. Also, because vehicles are 2-seaters, if you’re traveling with a group, you’ll need to book accordingly or contact the provider for exclusive use of a buggy.
Key Points / Takeaways
Authentic off-road adventure: Navigate rugged trails that take you away from crowds to explore quiet forests, mountain vistas, and charming villages.
Local tastings: Stop mid-trip at a family farm to sample honey, olive oil, souma, and other local products—an authentic taste of Rhodes’ rural life.
Expert guides: Tour leaders like Elias and Costas are regularly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel safe.
Spectacular views: Expect to see stunning coastline, panoramic mountain scenes, and forests—many reviews mention breathtaking vistas.
Flexible timing: Choose between an afternoon tour for clear skies or a sunset ride to see Rhodes in a golden glow.
Value for money: At around $136 per person for three hours, the combination of adventure, scenery, and local tastings is seen as excellent value—many reviewers call it a highlight of their trip.
Exploring Rhodes in a 4×4 Polaris Buggy
If you’re craving a different way to experience Rhodes beyond the typical beach or archaeological site visits, this guided buggy tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and want to access spots that are off limits to regular cars.
Starting at the Elin gas station near Kremasti, the tour begins with safety gear and instructions. Once behind the wheel, you’ll drive through dusty trails, climb mountain slopes, and weave through forests. The guides are familiar with the terrain—like Elias, who’s received consistent praise for his helpfulness and humor—and they lead the group through a route that balances scenic viewpoints with engaging off-road driving.
What makes this experience special is the opportunity to see areas of Rhodes that are less touristy. Reviews mention visits to high mountain peaks and quiet valleys, places most visitors never reach in a traditional car. The off-road driving is described as “beautiful and rough terrain,” which means you’ll likely get a bit dusty, but also truly immersed in nature.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kremasti.
Sampling the Best of Local Rhodes
One of the more delightful aspects of this tour is the local product stops. At a family farm, you’ll taste honey, olive oil, and souma, a local distilled drink. Many reviews mention how relaxed and unpressured these farm visits are—locals are friendly and happy to share their homemade goodies. This authentic touch often becomes a highlight, especially since the farm owners give you generous samples of honey, olive oil, and even homemade watermelon or grapes.
As one reviewer notes, “they don’t pressure you to buy,” which makes the tasting stops feel genuine and unforced. Plus, the opportunity to sample locally made products adds a depth of cultural connection to the adventure.
Expect a Mix of Off-Road and On-Road Driving
While much of the appeal is the off-road driving, the tour also includes some on-road sections. This combination allows for both scenic exploration and a bit of a breather from the dust and bumps. One reviewer appreciated the “good balance of off-road with some road sections connecting,” which makes the trip less exhausting and more enjoyable for a variety of travelers.
The route also takes you to the highest mountain on the island, providing sweeping vistas that many describe as “wow.” The guides tend to explain the geography and history along the way, adding informative commentary that appeals to those curious about Rhodes beyond the usual tourist spots.
Duration, Logistics, and Value
The tour lasts about three hours, which is a reasonable chunk of a day, especially if you’re looking for a quick but memorable adventure. It’s priced at $136 per person, which many consider good value given the mix of driving, scenic views, local tastings, and guide expertise. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Participants are advised to bring their driver’s license (minimum 2 years driving experience, age 21+) and should avoid sandals or flip-flops for safety. The activity does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan for transportation to the meeting point near Kremasti. Many reviewers found it easy to get there by bus or car, and one even appreciated that the activity provider organized transport for them.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy adventure, scenic drives, and local culture. It suits those with a sense of humor and a willingness to get a little dusty. If you’re traveling with family, the fact that kids aged 10 and up have joined successfully suggests it’s suitable for older children as well.
It’s also a good fit for those who want to see Rhodes’ mountain and forested areas—not just beaches or ruins. If you’re a fan of guides who are friendly and informative, you’ll find this trip especially rewarding.
Travelers seeking a more relaxed, culturally immersive experience with a dash of adrenaline will find this tour hits the mark. Conversely, if you prefer a more leisurely, museum-style day, this might be too energetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a driver’s license to join?
Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license for at least 2 years and be at least 21 years old to drive the buggy.
Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. If you book alone, you’ll share the buggy with another driver. If you want to ride solo, you need to contact the provider after booking.
Can I go on this tour if I don’t want to drive?
The tour is designed around driving the buggy, so it’s best suited for those willing to take the wheel. Passengers can’t ride along without driving unless you arrange a private buggy.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and practically—avoid sandals or flip-flops. Bring sunglasses and a buff or bandana to protect against dust.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops. Check availability for starting times.
Is it safe?
Yes. Guides like Elias are highly praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Vehicles are new, and safety gear is provided.
What’s included in the price?
A Polaris RZR Trail 1000 buggy, guide, local product tasting, goggles, and insurance are included.
Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women and people with back problems should avoid this activity.
How do I get there?
Meet at the Elin gas station near Kremasti. Transportation isn’t included but many find it easy to reach by bus or car. The activity provider also organizes transport if needed.
To sum it up, the Rhodes Polaris buggy off-road tour offers a lively, scenic, and authentic way to discover parts of the island most travelers never see. It combines adventure, stunning views, and cultural stops into a well-priced package, led by guides known for their friendliness and knowledge. It’s perfect if you’re up for a bit of dirt, a fair share of breathtaking scenery, and an authentic taste of local Rhodes life. Just be prepared for dusty trails and remember to bring your driver’s license and some comfortable clothes. For those who thrive on active exploration and memorable scenery, this tour is a clear standout.