Gozo Quad Bike Self-Drive Tour Including Comino Mini Cruise

Exploring Gozo on a Quad Bike: A Thrilling Adventure with a Touch of Relaxation

Planning an exciting day out in Malta that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of local charm? The Gozo Quad Bike Self-Drive Tour Including Comino Mini Cruise offers just that. With a mix of coastal trails, historical landmarks, and a boat trip around Comino, this tour promises a full day of exploration with a dose of adrenaline.

What makes this experience stand out? We love how it provides a hands-on way to discover Gozos’ natural beauty and heritage, all while enjoying the freedom of self-driving a powerful 570cc quad. The tour is well-balanced, offering both guided safety and the thrill of navigating scenic routes yourself.

One possible consideration? The requirement for valid driving licenses and a moderate physical fitness level might exclude some travelers, especially those with mobility issues or certain health concerns. Still, if you’re ready for a day full of fresh air and adventure, you’ll find this tour well worth it.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an active, memorable way to see parts of Malta that are often missed—perfect for curious explorers, adventure lovers, and those looking for a bit of fun outside the typical sightseeing routes.

Key Points

• Active Self-Drive Experience: You get to drive your own quad bike, guided by professionals, ensuring a fun and safe adventure.
• Stunning Scenic Stops: From Ta’ Cenc Cliffs to Gasri Valley, each stop offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
• Inclusion of a Mini Cruise: A boat around Comino, with stops at the famous Blue Lagoon—weather permitting—adds a relaxing, scenic element.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: The tour covers historical landmarks, natural wonders, and picturesque villages, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Value for Money: For around $117, you’ll enjoy a full day packed with diverse sights, guided support, and unique activities.
• Authentic Experience: The tour emphasizes exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, offering a genuine taste of Gozos’ natural and cultural richness.

The Full Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

The Start: Convenient Pick-Up and Safety Briefing

The day kicks off early, with pickup from your Malta accommodation or a nearby meeting point. This is a thoughtful touch, saving you the hassle of arranging transport and getting you directly into the adventure. Once on board the minivans, you’ll cross to Gozos’ main port, Mgarr Harbour, feeling the excitement build.

Arriving at Mgarr Harbour, you’ll receive a quick orientation and safety briefing—crucial for a self-drive tour. The guides make sure everyone knows how to operate the quad bikes safely, emphasizing helmet use and adherence to the group. This structured start sets a relaxed, confident tone for the day ahead.

The First Legs: Coastal Trails and Heritage Landmarks

Once suited up, you’ll hop onto your quad and set off along scenic trails. The drive along coastal and countryside routes allows you to enjoy Gozos’ rugged beauty and panoramic views. The guide leads the convoy, but you’re mostly in control, which makes the experience feel personal and adventurous.

The first notable stop is Mgarr Harbour, where you begin your journey with a quick orientation. This ensures everyone is comfortable before hitting the trails. From there, the first sightseeing stop is Ta’ Cenc Cliffs, perched on the southwestern coast. Expect dramatic cliffs rising sharply from the sea—perfect for photos and soaking in the Mediterranean scenery.

Next, you visit Xlendi, a charming coastal town with a small bay and picturesque cliffs. It’s an ideal spot to relax, take photos, and breathe in the sea air. The quiet beauty of Xlendi often surprises visitors who didn’t expect such a tranquil spot in the midst of a busy island.

Hidden Gems and Heritage Stops

Throughout the day, the tour reveals Gozos’ historical and cultural layers. The Knight’s Wash House, dating back to the 16th century, is carved into a cliff near a natural spring. This well-preserved relic offers a peek into the Knights of St. John’s influence and is a reminder of the island’s layered history.

The Dwejra Bay stop introduces you to one of Gozos’ geological marvels. Known for its unique landscape, this ecological haven boasts varied fauna, habitats, and seascapes. You might take a quick walk around the area, soaking in the scenery that’s been shaped by nature over millennia.

A highlight for many is the Inland Sea, a striking natural lagoon connected to the sea by a 65-meter tunnel. The views here are mesmerizing, and the natural formation offers fantastic photo opportunities—though swimming is optional and weather-dependent.

Cultural and Natural Highlights

Further inland, you’ll visit the Basilica of Ta Pinu, a renowned religious site with stunning architecture and a peaceful ambiance. Many visitors find this stop both inspiring and calming amid the day’s adventure.

The lush Gasri Valley provides a peaceful contrast to the coastal stops, with its steep cliffs and winding paths. It’s a quieter spot to appreciate Gozos natural tranquility and take some scenic shots.

Next, the Xwejni Salt Pans showcase a traditional industry with their striking white salt flats. These open-air salt fields have been used for centuries and offer a fascinating glimpse into local life and resourcefulness.

Beach Time and the Comino Mini Cruise

After a morning filled with exploring, the tour heads towards the north coast, with optional visits to Qbajjar Bay Beach and Marsalforn Bay. Qbajjar is a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters—perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on the sand.

As the morning transitions into afternoon, weather and sea conditions permitting, the tour includes a boat trip around the island of Comino. You’ll board a private boat reserved solely for your group, giving you a chance to see the iconic Blue Lagoon with its stunning turquoise waters. Reviewers mention that the boat captain plays music and makes the trip extra enjoyable, turning it into more than just sightseeing—it’s a fun way to unwind.

The boat cruise also covers the Crystal Lagoon, a sheltered bay ideal for snorkelling, and the Santa Maria Caves, where natural formations create a mysterious, otherworldly atmosphere. These stops are always weather-dependent but are highly valued by travelers who love swimming or photography.

Final Stops and Returning to Malta

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back along the countryside, passing through tranquil villages like Gasri. The return journey by boat is a relaxing way to end your adventure, with many guests enjoying the sea breeze and the views.

When weather permits, the swim stop in Comino is a highlight, particularly during the summer months when the lagoons are at their most inviting. Reviewers have praised the inclusion of the swim stop, calling it a “nice break” that complements the exciting quad riding.

Value and Overall Impression

All costs—fuel, helmets, insurance, and even raincoats—are included in the price, which makes the €117.09 fee quite reasonable for a full day packed with diverse sights and activities. The small group size (max 28 travelers) ensures everyone gets attention and feels part of an intimate adventure.

The main plus? The knowledgeable guides, like the reviewer who said the guides are “so friendly and nice,” make a real difference. Their local insights and safety tips keep the day running smoothly and add a layer of authenticity.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This adventure suits travelers who want to actively explore Malta and Gozos’ natural landscapes rather than just sightseeing from a bus. It’s ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity and driving.

Given the multi-stop nature and emphasis on scenic drives, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or anyone prone to seasickness (the boat trips are weather-dependent). Children over five can participate, but the activity might be best enjoyed by those with a sense of adventure and good coordination.

Final Thoughts

The Gozo Quad Bike Self-Drive Tour is a fantastic way to see a side of Malta that’s often overlooked—wild coastlines, historic sites, and quiet valleys. You’ll love the freedom of controlling your own quad, the spectacular views at each stop, and the relaxed boat cruise around Comino.

While it’s not a purely sightseeing tour, the combination of active exploration and scenic relaxation makes for a memorable day. Plus, the inclusion of a well-rounded itinerary that balances adventure with cultural highlights gives you real value for your money.

If you’re craving an energetic, authentic experience that takes you off the beaten path and into Gozos’ most photogenic corners, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of fun, and a valid driving license!

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Malta accommodation or nearby designated locations are included, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Children over five years old can join, but the activity is best suited for those comfortable with riding a quad bike.

Do I need a driving license?
Yes, drivers must be 21 or older and must present an original, valid driving license. No provisional or photocopies are accepted.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, along with sturdy trainers or similar footwear. Helmets and hairnets are provided.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, boat trips at Dwejra Bay are optional and paid separately (€10 per person), and tips are also at your discretion.

Can I do the mini cruise in bad weather?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If it’s canceled, no refunds are given, but an alternative arrangement might be offered.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 to 8 hours, including transport, stops, and activities.

Is the tour suitable for those with physical limitations?
No, the tour requires moderate physical fitness and is not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 28, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Can I participate if I don’t want to drive?
The tour is designed as a self-drive experience. Passengers who prefer not to drive may need to check with the provider for alternative arrangements, but most activity components involve driving your own quad.

In summary, if you crave a day of adventure, scenic beauty, and discovering Gozos hidden corners at your own pace—this quad bike tour with a mini cruise component offers exceptional value and a fun, authentic experience you’ll remember.