OFF ROAD Safari

Introduction to the OFF ROAD Safari in Mykonos

If you’re looking to venture beyond the usual tourist spots and see the hidden corners of Mykonos, the OFF ROAD Safari offered by KYKLOMAR TOURS promises an adventurous 6-hour journey in a 4×4 vehicle. Priced at about $100.88 per person, this tour is designed for those eager to explore remote beaches, scenic viewpoints, and historic ruins that many visitors never get to see. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on eight reviews, it’s clear that most travelers find this experience worthwhile — especially if they love a combination of nature, history, and a bit of off-the-beaten-path exploration.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on remote locations inaccessible by regular car and the knowledgeable guides like Claudio, who many reviews praise for their engaging storytelling and local insights. A highlight for many is the chance to snap photos from unique vantage points, especially from Armenistis Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. The tour also balances sightseeing with relaxing beach stops—perfect for cooling off and soaking in the Greek sun.

One thing travelers should consider is that you won’t have open-top jeeps, and the overall experience is more of a guided group tour rather than a drive-yourself adventure. Plus, the cost does not include food or drinks, but there’s a good opportunity for a traditional Greek lunch in Ano Mera, making the overall day feel well-rounded. If you’re seeking an authentic way to see parts of Mykonos away from the crowds and enjoy a mix of nature, history, and photo opportunities, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Remote exploration of hidden beaches and ruins provides a unique perspective of Mykonos.
• Knowledgeable guides like Claudio make the experience engaging and informative.
• Scenic vistas from Armenistis Lighthouse and other viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities.
• Beach stops at Merchia and Agrari beaches let you relax and swim in calm or wild waters.
• The tour is group-oriented, with a chance for everyone to participate in driving if they wish.
• Cost covers local taxes but excludes food, drinks, and hotel transportation.

Detailed Review of the OFF ROAD Safari Experience

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The tour begins at 9:30 am from a conveniently located meeting point in Mykonos. From there, you’ll hop into a sturdy 4×4 vehicle—not the open-top Jeeps you might imagine, but modern, safer vehicles for group exploration. The first stop is Ano Mera, a charming village with a 300-year-old monastery and a quaint church. Here, you may enjoy the tranquility of the town square and have the option to sample traditional Greek dishes under large, old trees—an ideal setting to relax and refuel after the drive. One reviewer, Carli_W, describes the guide Claudio as “amazing and so engaging,” highlighting how much they enjoyed the local stories and the relaxed atmosphere.

Next, the journey takes you to Armenistis Lighthouse, offering magnificent panoramic views of about 300 degrees of the surrounding islands. This spot is a photographer’s dream, and I imagine you’ll love the sense of space and untouched beauty here—something you won’t find in the more commercial beaches. The 20-minute stop is just enough to soak it in without feeling rushed.

The tour continues to Merchia Beach, a wild, rocky stretch with high waves crashing on the rocks, creating a spectacular scene. If you’re into dramatic seascapes and like to capture lively water action, this is an ideal photo stop. Be aware that the high waves make swimming less ideal here, but for photos and the sheer spectacle, it’s perfect.

Finally, the beach stop at Agrari Beach is a highlight for relaxation. With 90 minutes allocated, you can take a refreshing swim, sip a coffee, or enjoy a cold drink at the beach bar. The thicker sand and calmer waters make it a good place to unwind before heading back to town.

What Travelers Love Most

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Reviewers like Carli_W particularly mention Claudio’s engaging storytelling, which adds depth to the experience. The scenic vistas from viewpoints like Armenistis Lighthouse and the wild beauty of Merchia Beach are also consistently highlighted as spectacular. Many reviewers appreciate the balance between sightseeing and free time, especially the opportunity to swim at Agrari Beach.

Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While the experience is generally well-liked, some travelers express disappointment over not having open-top Jeeps like the pictures suggest. One reviewer, Rick_H, felt that the backseat experience was less than ideal, describing it as “sitting in the backseat of a car for almost 8 hrs,” and was disappointed about the inability to drive, thinking the images showed a different kind of vehicle. The tour provider responded that safety regulations prevent open-top vehicles, and that everyone does get a chance to drive if they wish, so clarity here might have been lost. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included in the base price, costing an additional €10 per person.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

The group size is capped at 35 participants, which keeps the atmosphere lively but manageable. The 6-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough to see several highlights without feeling overly rushed. The price of about $100.88 is reasonable considering the stops, the guide’s insights, and the variety of locations visited. Keep in mind, food and drinks are extra, but the lunch in Ano Mera is often cited as a tasty local treat.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an adventure, love scenic viewpoints, and appreciate off-the-beaten-path moments. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided experiences but also value some free time to relax or take photos. Families with older children will find it manageable, though very young kids might find it a long day in the vehicle.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

This off-road safari in Mykonos offers an engaging blend of scenery, culture, and adventure. The chance to visit remote beaches, snap stunning photos, and listen to stories from knowledgeable guides can make it a memorable part of any Greek island itinerary. The scenic viewpoints like Armenistis Lighthouse provide a sense of vastness and beauty that’s hard to match.

While the vehicle type and the limited drive opportunities may not satisfy those dreaming of a driving experience or open jeep adventure, the overall journey provides excellent value for exploring areas most visitors never see. If you enjoy guided tours with a sense of discovery, this adventure is a solid choice.

For travelers who prefer a combination of sightseeing, relaxing beach time, and scenic vistas, and don’t mind paying a bit extra for optional lunch and transport, this tour could be a highlight of your Mykonos trip. Keep in mind the group size and plan accordingly—booking about a month in advance is recommended.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included in the base price but are available for an extra €10 per person.

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins at 9:30 am, giving you a full day of exploration.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, from start to finish, including stops.

What kind of vehicle will I be riding in?
You will be in a modern 4×4 vehicle (not an open-top jeep), suitable for off-road terrain and group travel.

Does the price include entrance fees?
No, all stops are free, and there are no entrance fees for the sites visited, but optional lunch in Ano Mera is extra.

Can I drive the vehicle?
Yes, everyone typically gets a chance to drive if they wish, despite some misconceptions from promotional photos.

This OFF ROAD Safari in Mykonos blends adventure, scenic beauty, and local culture into a compelling day out. It’s particularly suited for those eager to see beyond the usual and capture memorable photos while learning about the island’s lesser-known spots.