Plakias, Spili and Kotsifou Canyon Jeep Safari 4×4

Exploring Crete with the Plakias, Spili, and Kotsifou Canyon Jeep Safari — a detailed look

Traveling around Crete offers countless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. One of the standout ways to experience the island’s diverse landscapes is through a guided 4×4 Jeep Safari, which promises a mix of scenic drives, charming villages, and wild natural beauty. This particular tour, organized by Cretan Holidays, takes visitors on an approximately 8-hour journey starting from Chania, with stops at Malaki, Kotsifou Gorge, Plakias Beach, and Spili. It’s a well-rounded way to see some of the less touristy but incredibly picturesque parts of Crete.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines off-road adventure with authentic local experiences—like tasting Cretan delicacies in Malaki or enjoying a traditional BBQ near Plakias beach. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the journey far beyond just sightseeing. However, some travelers might find the schedule quite packed or prefer more free time at each stop. Still, it’s a great pick for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and culture, especially if you enjoy a bit of rugged terrain and scenic driving.

In this review, we’ll walk through the itinerary, share insights from recent travelers, and discuss what makes this tour a worthwhile choice — or perhaps not — depending on your preferences. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, whether you’re after stunning views or authentic local moments, there’s plenty to consider before booking this Crete adventure.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining off-road driving, cultural stops, and beach relaxation
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and friendly service
• Authentic Cretan hospitality at Malaki and Spili, adding genuine local flavor
• Scenic natural beauty at Kotsifou Gorge and Plakias Beach for memorable photo moments
• Value for money with included BBQ lunch, transport, and free cancellation
• Suitability for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100 and an emphasis on comfort and safety

An in-depth look at the Jeep Safari experience

Starting the adventure: transfers and briefing

The tour begins early, with a pickup around 8:00 am, making it convenient for travelers staying in Chania or nearby areas. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the roughly 8-hour journey, which is especially appreciated given Crete’s warm climate in summer. Upon arrival at the meeting point, a brief overview is provided, including the route and driving rules. This sets a tone of professionalism and safety that travelers can trust, especially when venturing into more rugged terrain.

The first stop: Malaki village

Around 9:00 am, your journey kicks off with a short drive to Malaki, a traditional village in Rethymnon. Just 40 minutes in, you’ll enjoy your first coffee break, a perfect way to settle in and meet fellow travelers. One review mentions the delicacies and Cretan hospitality, highlighting the genuine warmth of the local people. This stop offers a peek into rural Crete, with its stone houses and relaxed pace, making it an authentic taste of island life.

The highlight: Kotsifou Canyon

Next, the adventure turns more adventurous as you approach Kotsifou Gorge. This natural marvel is famed for its endemic plant species and rugged beauty. The drive through the gorge offers stunning views, with plenty of opportunities to take photos. Travelers note the impressive scenery and appreciate the chance to see Crete’s unspoiled side. As one reviewer puts it, the natural purity of the canyon is a memorable highlight, and being able to walk along parts of the gorge adds a touch of exploration.

Relaxation at Plakias Beach and BBQ feast

Following the gorge, your group heads to Plakias Beach, a tranquil spot where you can unwind. The beach’s long stretch of sand and clear waters are perfect for a leisurely break. The highlight here is the beachside BBQ, served at a campsite near the shore. This isn’t just a quick snack — it’s a delightful meal with grilled meats, salads, and local flavors, making the most of your time by the sea.

Reviewers have raved about this part of the day, with comments like “the BBQ was a highlight for me,” and “the food was great, and the beach calm and beautiful.” Two hours give enough time to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery before heading on.

The charming village of Spili

The last stop before returning is Spili, a small village famous for its natural springs and centuries-old trees. It’s a peaceful spot for a final coffee break, with a more laid-back vibe compared to the bustling tourist areas. Reviewers mention that even as a solo traveler, they felt comfortable and the guide was attentive, answering all questions thoroughly. This stop captures the essence of Crete’s rural charm and offers a gentle conclusion to your day.

Retracing your steps back to Chania

After Spili, it’s time to head back, with the journey wrapping up around 4-5 pm. The group tends to be small enough for a friendly atmosphere, and the guides often share stories and insights along the way, making the drive as engaging as the stops.

What travelers say about this tour

Recent reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and the stunning views as standout features. One reviewer commended the tour for fulfilling all expectations and praised the answering of questions during the trip, which made the experience more personal and educational. Another reviewer appreciated the smooth transfer service, noting that the trip was well-organized and comfortable, even mentioning the helpfulness of the guide Alex.

The scenery of Kotsifou Gorge and Plakias Beach receives frequent praise, with travelers noting how these spots feel genuinely untouched by mass tourism. Many appreciated the authentic local experience at Malaki and Spili, which added a genuine touch missing from more commercialized tours.

Practical considerations

The cost of $104.11 per person is reasonable considering the all-day itinerary, included BBQ, and transportation. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy (free if canceled 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind. It’s worth noting that the tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join, and groups capped at 100 for a more intimate experience.

Opportunities for improvement

Some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if they prefer more leisure at each stop. The tour also relies heavily on weather conditions, with a full refund or rescheduling in case of poor weather. For those looking for more in-depth exploration of one particular site, this might feel rushed, but for a well-rounded overview, it hits the right marks.

Why this tour is worth considering

This Jeep Safari is perfect for travelers who want a combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and culture without the hassle of planning every detail. The off-road drive through Kotsifou Gorge offers a more rugged experience than typical sightseeing tours, and the stops at authentic villages bring a genuine feel to your Crete visit.

The inclusion of a BBQ lunch by the beach makes it a great value, especially for those who enjoy good food and relaxing seaside atmospheres. The knowledgeable guides and small group sizes help create a welcoming environment, ensuring you feel safe and well-informed throughout.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for active travelers willing to embrace a full day of sightseeing, some driving, and memorable natural scenery.

Final thoughts: Is this tour for you?

If you’re craving an active day exploring Crete’s wild and picturesque sides, this Jeep safari is a solid choice. It’s especially good for adventure lovers who want to see multiple sites without the stress of independent planning. The authentic village visits and scenic gorges will appeal to those interested in genuine local culture and natural beauty.

The tour’s value comes from its well-rounded approach: scenic drives, cultural stops, and a relaxing beachside BBQ. It’s a great way to break the routine and see Crete from a different perspective, with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

For travelers who prioritize safety, comfort, and knowledgeable guides, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, with the only real consideration being the amount of time spent sitting in a vehicle. If you’re after a day filled with varied scenery, local flavor, and some adventure, this Jeep safari could be just what you need.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day, with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point.

What is the duration of the tour?
The approximate duration is 8 hours, starting around 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch is included, usually served at Plakias Beach near the shore.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the physical demands of some stops, especially walking in gorges or uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Swimsuits might be handy for Plakias Beach.

How many people are on the tour?
The group size is limited to 100 travelers, ensuring a manageable and friendly atmosphere.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 jeep or similar vehicle designed for off-road and scenic drives.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Plakias, Spili, and Kotsifou Canyon Jeep Safari offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, authentic village experiences, and scenic drives. It’s a rewarding choice for active travelers eager to see Crete beyond the usual tourist spots, with the added bonus of a delicious BBQ and friendly guides. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour offers a well-organized way to connect with the island’s true essence — wild, welcoming, and wonderfully diverse.