Buggy Safari To Menies Beach

This review explores the Buggy Safari to Menies Beach, a popular half-day adventure on Greece’s stunning island of Crete. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, extensive reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. If you’re craving a mix of off-road adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic local touches, this might just be your perfect escape.

What really appeals are the stunning landscapes, the knowledgeable guides who make the journey safe and fun, and the chance to discover less-touristy spots like Menies Beach. The inclusion of snacks, water, and fruits adds a thoughtful touch, making the experience well-rounded. A potential consideration is that the route is quite long (around 75 km) and involves some rugged terrain, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with adventure activities.

Ideal for adventurous travelers, photo enthusiasts, or anyone looking to explore Crete beyond traditional sightseeing, this tour offers a unique way to see the island’s diverse scenery. If you enjoy driving, nature, and small-group experiences, this trip could be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Authentic off-road adventure in scenic Crete with expert guides.
• Stunning views of inner landscapes, coastlines, and iconic beaches.
• Inclusive amenities like snacks, fruits, water, and safety gear.
• Small-group experience for personalized attention and safety.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later.
• Suitable for confident drivers aged 7+ with proper licenses.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

An Exciting Mix of Land and Sea Scenery

The Buggy Safari is designed to offer an exhilarating ride through Crete’s diverse terrain. You’ll start your day at the meeting point in Maleme, arriving 15-20 minutes early for safety instructions and vehicle control checks. The experience involves a 4-hour journey covering approximately 80+ kilometers—a significant stretch that combines off-road driving, scenic viewpoints, and cultural stops.

The route is carefully curated to balance adventure and relaxation. You’ll pass through olive groves, hills, small towns, and rugged mountain terrain, all while taking in the spectacular panoramas. The guides, led by knowledgeable professionals like Mike, are attentive and ensure everyone feels comfortable, offering safety instructions and a quick test drive before setting off.

Stops Along the Way

The journey includes two quick stops of around 15 minutes and a main 45-minute stop at Menies Beach—the tour’s highlight. These stops are thoughtfully planned to give you a break, enjoy the scenery, and take photos. The final destination, Menies Beach, is renowned for its pristine waters and untouched beauty, perfect for a dip or relaxing on the sand.

On the way, you’ll also explore notable sites like the Ag Ioannis Cave in Marathokefala, which promises impressive geological features and photo opportunities, and Cape Spathas at Giona, offering sweeping views of the coast and ocean.

What Guides and Reviews Highlight

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeability and friendliness of guides like Mike, who make the experience both fun and safe. Alexandra mentions that Mike’s professionalism, warmth, and humor lifted the experience, while Louise notes that the guide’s helpfulness made the ride enjoyable. Stephanie highlights that the driving through small towns and mountain terrains was a personal favorite, and she loved the stunning ocean views.

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The Vehicles and Safety

The two-seater buggies are modern and well-maintained, with comprehensive safety equipment like intercoms, bandanas, masks, and wireless transceivers. Before departure, all drivers receive a safety briefing and participate in a test drive, so even those new to off-road driving can feel confident. The tour emphasizes professionalism and safety, making it accessible for those with proper licenses and a sense of adventure.

The Food and Refreshments

The experience is not just about the drive; it’s also about relaxation and tasting local flavors. The tour includes water, fruits, and snacks provided along the route, with delicious tapas at the beach stop as a bonus. Reviewers like Alexandra and Stephanie rave about the quality of the snacks and the authentic touches provided by the guides.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $225 per group (up to 2 people), you might initially think this is a bit pricey, but considering what’s included—fuel, taxes, insurance, safety gear, snacks, and guidance—it offers good value. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the scenic diversity and off-road adventures make it a memorable day.

Compared to other guided tours or self-drive options, this excursion provides professional guidance and safety that might be hard to replicate alone, especially on rugged terrain. Plus, with flexible booking options—free cancellation and pay later—it’s a risk-free way to add adventure to your Crete itinerary.

Why This Tour Stands Out

• The combination of scenic drives and off-road fun makes it a versatile experience.
• The authentic local snack experience adds cultural flavor.
• The small group size creates a more intimate, safer environment.
• The guides’ expertise ensures both safety and fun, with personal touches that elevate the trip.

Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The adventure begins at the Rock N Roll Buggy Safari offices in Maleme. Arrive early to check in, meet your guide, and get a briefing. A test drive ensures everyone is comfortable, and safety instructions are clearly explained, especially for first-timers.

Scenic Drive Through Olive Groves and Hills

Once underway, the route takes you through olive groves, small villages, and lush hills. This part of the tour is perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to soak in rural Crete. Reviewers mention that the guides are attentive, making sure everyone feels safe while having fun.

Stops at Ag Ioannis Cave and Cape Giona

The first quick stop at Ag Ioannis Cave offers a glimpse into Crete’s geological wonders, while at Cape Giona, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coast and ocean. These stops are excellent for stretching your legs and capturing photos.

The Long Ascent to Menies Beach

The highlight is the main stop at Menies Beach, where you’ll have approximately 45 minutes to relax, swim, or simply take in the natural beauty. The beach has a pristine coastline, perfect for a refreshing swim or a lazy afternoon on the sand.

Return Journey

After a leisurely break, the return journey retraces part of the scenic route back to Maleme, with the opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights and perhaps share photos and stories with fellow travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour

• Adventurers looking for a thrilling way to explore Crete’s rugged landscapes.
• Nature lovers eager to see hidden spots and panoramic vistas.
• Food enthusiasts who enjoy tasting local snacks in an authentic setting.
• Small groups who prefer personalized attention and a more intimate tour experience.
• Photographers wanting to capture the diverse scenery from mountain to coast.

Who Might Not Enjoy It

• Travelers uncomfortable with off-road driving or long rides.
• Those prone to motion sickness due to bumpy terrain.
• People looking for a more relaxed, traditional sightseeing tour.
• Visitors under 7 years old or with certain health conditions, as safety restrictions apply.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers aged 7 and older, with drivers needing a valid license. Small children may not be able to participate due to safety reasons.

How long is the total route?
The entire journey covers approximately 80+ kilometers over about 4 hours, including stops.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, driver’s license, hat, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, clothes that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes, and goggles for protection.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides water, fruits, snacks, and delicious tapas at the beach stop.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides give a safety briefing, and vehicles are equipped with intercoms for communication. All drivers participate in a test drive before departure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What if I don’t want to drive?
The tour is designed for those to drive the buggies themselves. It’s essential to have a valid driver’s license and be comfortable behind the wheel.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions. It’s best to check the forecast and contact the provider if in doubt.

What is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

Final Thoughts

The Buggy Safari to Menies Beach offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a curious beginner, the well-organized route, expert guides, and stunning vistas make this a standout activity in Crete. The inclusion of local snacks and the hands-on off-road experience adds extra layers of value, creating a day filled with fun, exploration, and spectacular views.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a lively, active day out of the usual tourist trails—perfect for adventure lovers, small-group travelers, and photography enthusiasts. If you’re after a memorable, authentic experience that combines nature, culture, and a dash of adrenaline, this buggy safari could be the highlight of your Crete trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: