Explore the captivating island of Spinalonga and the enchanting Milatos Cave on this unforgettable safari adventure in Crete. Set out on a scenic 4×4 ride and a thrilling speedboat journey, uncovering the rich history and natural wonders that this stunning Greek island has to offer. With a guided tour of the former leper colony and the chance to marvel at the cave’s breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, this family-friendly excursion promises an immersive experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of Crete’s hidden gems.
Key Points
- This guided excursion in Crete combines a visit to the former leper colony of Spinalonga with a tour of the stunning Milatos Cave.
- The tour includes a scenic 4×4 drive through Crete’s mountainous interior, showcasing the island’s natural landscapes and traditional villages.
- Participants will enjoy a 30-minute private speedboat ride from Plaka to Spinalonga Island for a guided tour of the historical site.
- The exploration of Milatos Cave, featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites, provides an immersive experience in Crete’s rich geological heritage.
- The tour is designed for a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience with an expert local guide.
Tour Overview
This guided excursion offers travelers the opportunity to explore the magnificent mountains of Crete, combining a speedboat ride to the former leper colony of Spinalonga and a visit to the picturesque Milatos Cave.
Along the way, you’ll stop at an olive oil factory and take in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mirabello.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this family-friendly tour ensures personalized attention from your knowledgeable driver and guide.
Whether you’re seeking an adventure or a cultural experience, this excursion has a lot to offer, making it a must-do for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of Crete.
Itinerary Highlights
The excursion begins with a scenic drive through the valleys and villages of Crete, where travelers explore the region’s natural wonders in a 4×4 vehicle. From there, participants embark on a speedboat ride from Plaka to the historic island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony steeped in rich history. After a short tour of Spinalonga, the group then ventures to the captivating Milatos Cave, an underground wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Finally, the day concludes with a delightful lunch at a local taverna, where travelers savor the authentic flavors of Cretan cuisine.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| 4×4 Vehicle Drive | Scenic Tour |
| Speedboat Ride to Spinalonga | 30 mins |
| Tour of Spinalonga Island | 1 hour |
| Visit to Milatos Cave | 1 hour |
| Lunch at Local Taverna | 1-2 hours |
Included in the Tour
After exploring the captivating Milatos Cave and savoring the local cuisine, the tour package includes several key elements to enhance the overall experience.
Travelers will be provided with bottled water and light refreshments throughout the day, ensuring they stay hydrated and energized.
The knowledgeable driver and guide will offer personalized attention, sharing their expertise on the region’s history and culture.
Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points are included, making transportation seamless.
Plus, the entrance fees for Spinalonga Island are covered, allowing guests to fully enjoy the former leper colony’s fascinating past.
With these inclusions, the Spinalonga and Milatos Cave Safari Excursion delivers a comprehensive and carefree adventure.
Accessibility and Transportation
For those with mobility concerns, the Spinalonga and Milatos Cave Safari Excursion may not be fully wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available. Despite this, the tour remains accessible to most travelers, with the ability to accommodate strollers and service animals.
Conveniently, the tour departs at 9:00 am from selected meeting points, allowing easy access via public transportation for those who prefer not to drive.
The tour’s small group size of a maximum of 6 travelers ensures personalized attention, making it a suitable option for families and those seeking a more intimate experience.
Whether you’re exploring the mountains of Crete or taking a scenic speedboat ride, this excursion caters to a wide range of participants.
Participant Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Spinalonga and Milatos Cave Safari Excursion, awarding it an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 21 reviews.
Guests have highlighted several key aspects of the tour:
- Knowledgeable and engaging guides who provide insightful commentary on the history and culture of Crete.
- Breathtaking scenery, including the stunning landscapes of the Gulf of Mirabello and the unique geological formation of Milatos Cave.
- Delicious local cuisine served at the traditional taverna, offering an authentic taste of Cretan flavors.
These positive reviews demonstrate the tour’s ability to deliver a comprehensive and immersive Crete experience, making it an excellent choice for families and travelers seeking to explore the island’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
The Spinalonga and Milatos Cave Safari Excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing travelers with flexibility in their planning.
This policy allows guests to book their tour with confidence, knowing they can make adjustments if their plans change.
Once the booking is confirmed, the tour provider will handle the pickup and drop-off logistics, ensuring a seamless experience.
With a maximum group size of 6 travelers, the excursion offers personalized attention and an intimate setting.
Whether you’re looking to explore the scenic landscapes of Crete or learn about the island’s rich history, this guided tour is an excellent choice that caters to your needs.
Meeting Points and Departure Time
The tour departs at 9:00 am from selected meeting points, allowing participants to join the excursion conveniently.
Pickup and drop-off services are provided from designated locations, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the day.
Travelers have the flexibility to choose from the following meeting points:
- Elounda area hotels and resorts
- Agios Nikolaos town center
- Plaka port, the starting point for the speedboat ride to Spinalonga
This arrangement caters to the diverse needs of the group, making it easy for everyone to access the tour and embark on the captivating Spinalonga and Milatos Cave Safari adventure.
Crete’s Natural Wonders Explored
Venturing beyond the island’s bustling coastal towns, the 4×4 vehicle carries participants deep into Crete’s rugged interior, where towering mountains and verdant valleys await exploration.
The journey takes travelers through winding roads, offering glimpses of traditional villages and olive groves that have stood the test of time.
The highlight is the visit to Milatos Cave, a natural wonder formed over millennia by the relentless flow of water.
Descending into the cool, dimly lit cavern, visitors are awed by the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the chamber’s walls, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
This immersive experience allows travelers to connect with Crete’s sublime natural beauty and rich geological history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Footwear Is Recommended for the Tour?
The tour involves hiking and exploring uneven terrain, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots are recommended. They’ll provide good traction and support to navigate the natural landscapes safely and comfortably throughout the day.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Speedboat Ride?
There are no age restrictions for the speedboat ride. The tour is family-friendly and accommodates travelers of all ages, including infants. Appropriate safety measures are in place to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Can Personal Items Be Stored During the Tour?
Participants can store personal items in the vehicle during the tour. The tour operator provides secure storage for belongings so travelers can fully enjoy the activities without worrying about their belongings. Small items can also be brought on the speedboat ride.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Excursion?
The maximum group size for this excursion is 6 travelers. According to the tour overview, the tour is designed for small groups to provide personalized attention to each participant.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
The tour offers a standard itinerary, but travelers can’t customize it. The small group size allows for personalized attention, and the family-friendly nature makes it suitable for travelers seeking a comprehensive Crete experience.
Recap
The Spinalonga and Milatos Cave Safari Excursion offers an unforgettable adventure through Crete’s stunning landscapes.
Travelers will explore Spinalonga Island’s rich history as a former leper colony and marvel at the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites of the Milatos Cave.
With personalized attention and an immersive experience, this family-friendly tour is a must-do for those seeking to discover Crete’s natural and cultural heritage.
