Reviews
(4)
4.55 /5

Private Tour of South Crete: Explore Hippie Caves and Ancient Treasures

$4,495
Duration
5 days
Type
Difficulty
Previous
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Nestled at the southern edge of the Aegean Sea, South Crete beckons with its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and timeless charm. Here, ancient history mingles with stunning natural beauty, creating a captivating destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in South Crete, with archaeological sites such as the ancient city of Gortyna and the legendary Palace of Phaistos offering glimpses into the island's rich past.

For those in search of authentic Cretan cuisine, South Crete does not disappoint. From traditional tavernas serving freshly caught seafood to family-run olive oil mills and vineyards offering tastings of local produce, the culinary scene here is a true delight for the senses

Let us know if there are any specific sights or experiences you'd like to include, and we'll tailor the tour accordingly.

Inclusions

  • Pick up and Drop off from your accommodation Hotel/Port/Airport
  • Private Transportation in Mercedes Benz Van
  • Local English speaking Driver Guide
  • Liability Insurance
  • Coffee and/or Tea
  • Bottled water
  • Food & drinks

Exclusions

  • Matala Caves 4 Euro entrance fee per person
  • Phaistos Palace 8 Euro entrance fee per person

Tour Plan

Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1

At the heart of the village lies the picturesque main square, where locals gather to socialize over strong Greek coffee or a glass of raki. Visit the centuries-old Byzantine church dedicated to Agios Thomas, its ancient frescoes telling stories of faith and tradition.

Day 1 The Phaistos Palace

is an ancient Minoan palace located on the island of Crete, Greece. It was built around 1700 BC and was an important center of Minoan civilization during the Bronze Age. The palace was discovered in the early 20th century by the Italian archaeologist Luigi Pernier.

Day 1 The Matala Caves

located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece, hold a captivating history that dates back centuries. Carved into the limestone cliffs overlooking the Libyan Sea, these caves have served various purposes throughout the ages.

Originally crafted by the ancient Romans as tombs and later used as dwellings by early Christian ascetics, the Matala Caves gained widespread attention in the 1960s and 70s when they became a popular refuge for hippies seeking an alternative lifestyle. The caves were immortalized in songs by the likes of Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan, solidifying their place in pop culture lore.

Today, while some of the caves still house residents, many have been preserved as a cultural landmark and tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the caves, marvel at the breathtaking sea views, and contemplate the diverse tapestry of human history that these caves have witnessed over the millennia.

Meeting / Pickup

Pick-up only: Customers must be picked up from selected pick-up locations.

Know Before You Go

  • Infants must sit on your lap

Please Note

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Let us know if there are any specific sights or experiences you'd like to include, and we'll tailor the tour accordingly.
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • Infant seats available on request
  • If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please contact us to let us know.
  • We'll pick up and drop off all travelers from their accommodations Hotel/Port/Airport.
  • NOTE- For those who arrive in Heraklion by cruise ship, this private tour can start after their arrival. The driver guide, will be waiting at the shuttle bus exit with your name card.
  • We don't pick up travelers from Souda port, Chania,Ierapetra and Sitia region.

Cancellation Policy

Fully refundable until 1 day before start

Non-refundable after 1 day before start

Reviews

4.55/5
Wonderful
4 verified reviews
Location (4.25/5)
Amenities (4.75/5)
Services (4.5/5)
Price (4.75/5)
Rooms (4.5/5)

4 Comments

  1. 4.8

    • Location
    • Amenities
    • Services
    • Price
    • Rooms

    Our experience exploring the wildlife from Mombasa to Amboseli and Tsavo exceeded our expectations in so many ways. The accommodations were comfortable and well-located, giving us a perfect base to recharge after each day of safari adventures. Every game drive brought new excitement, with countless sightings of elephants and lions that had our group buzzing with energy. One minor suggestion would be to include more time for sunset views at Amboseli; those moments felt a bit rushed given how stunning they were. Overall, this journey brilliantly showcased the beauty of Kenya’s national parks and allowed us to connect with nature in a memorable way.

  2. 4.4

    • Location
    • Amenities
    • Services
    • Price
    • Rooms

    The highlight of our journey unfolded when we stumbled upon a magnificent herd of elephants gently roaming the plains, their playful calves frolicking nearby. We appreciated the cozy accommodations that provided a warm respite after long days of exploration, each evening filled with the sounds of nature just outside our door. If there was a small wish, it would be for slightly longer stops to soak in those incredible wildlife encounters.

  3. 4.6

    • Location
    • Amenities
    • Services
    • Price
    • Rooms

    Our five-day adventure through Mombasa in Kenya was unforgettable, filled with breathtaking wildlife encounters in Amboseli and Tsavo. We savored delicious local meals at various lodges, which really enhanced our overall experience. The only thing we wished for was a bit more time to explore each park, as there was so much to see and appreciate.

  4. 4.4

    • Location
    • Amenities
    • Services
    • Price
    • Rooms

    From the moment I set foot in Mombasa in Kenya, I was swept away by the vibrant culture and the breathtaking scenery. The wildlife encounters in Amboseli and Tsavo were simply unforgettable, especially watching elephants roam freely against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. While the lodges provided a cozy night’s rest, it would have been nice to have more downtime to soak in the serene environments after the day’s adventures.

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