If you’re looking to experience Malta beyond its famous historical sites, the Nature Highlights Private Walking Tour offers a refreshing look at the island’s diverse landscapes and rich flora. Led by a fully qualified botanist, this five-hour journey takes you through some of Malta’s most scenic outdoor spots, away from crowded tourist streets.
What we love about this tour is the blend of education and leisure—you’ll walk through tranquil lakes, explore ancient fortifications with panoramic views, and wander lush valleys. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group means you get a tailored experience, perfect for nature lovers or anyone seeking a peaceful escape.
A potential consideration is the walking distance of approximately 6.5 km, which requires comfortable shoes and some light stamina. This isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration, want to learn about Malta’s unique biodiversity, and prefer a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Good To Know
- Expert-led experience with a certified botanist guiding you through Malta’s natural wonders
- Visit three scenic sites: Chadwick Lakes, Victoria Lines, Bingemma Valley
- Ideal for nature lovers looking for a peaceful, educational walk away from crowds
- Includes transportation and hotel pickup for added convenience
- Approximately 6.5 km of walking, with an easy difficulty level
- Optional packed lunch available to enhance the experience
Exploring Malta’s Natural Treasures: A Detailed Look
Interested in exploring Rabat Malta on foot? Other walking tours we've covered
The Experience Overview
This private walking tour is designed to showcase Malta’s natural beauty rather than its rough-and-tumble history. Led by a fully qualified and certified botanist, you’ll gain insights into the island’s endemic plants, wetlands, and biodiversity while enjoying some of Malta’s most picturesque outdoor locations.
The tour spans roughly five hours, covering about 6.5 km of fairly easy terrain, with some rough patches near Bingemma Valley. Transport and pickup are included, making it a smooth experience from start to finish—perfect for travelers wanting to avoid the hassle of taxis or public transport.
The Sites: What Makes Each Stop Special
Chadwick Lakes: A Serene Water Sanctuary
Your first destination, Chadwick Lakes, is the only freshwater stream in Malta sizable enough to qualify as a rivulet. Constructed in the late 19th century by Sir Osbert Chadwick, these lakes are a peaceful spot for nature viewing and photography. They’re surrounded by a system of small dams along Wied il-Qlejga, Malta’s largest valley.
We loved how the guide explained the wetland flora and fauna, including the endemic painted frog, amphibians, insects, and aquatic plants such as floating buttercups. The recent renovation has revitalized the area, giving visitors a chance to witness Malta’s rare wetland ecosystem up close.
According to reviews, visitors found the guide very knowledgeable, adding depth to what might otherwise be a simple walk. Jill mentioned, “Our guide was very knowledgeable about all things Malta! I highly recommend this experience,” which highlights the value of the expert commentary.
The Victoria Lines: A 19th-Century Military Wonder
Next, you’ll visit the Victoria Lines, a 12 km-long line of fortifications built by the British at the end of the 19th century. These impressive structures are not just historical relics—they offer spectacular panoramic views of the Maltese countryside, including the villages of Mellieħa and Mġarr, and even the island of Gozo on clear days.
Walking along the elevated rocky escarpments, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective on Malta’s strategic military architecture. The guide will point out the engineering ingenuity behind the fortifications, which resemble a smaller-scale Great Wall of China.
Many reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise, with Jill noting that her guide’s knowledge extended beyond flora to include interesting facts about Malta’s defensive architecture, making the visit not just scenic but also educational.
Bingemma Valley and the Paleo-Christian Tombs
The final stop takes you to Bingemma, a lush area filled with wild orchids, scrubby vegetation, and relics of early Christian history. Here, you’ll find Paleo-Christian rock-hewn tombs, some of the largest in Malta, which you’ll get to explore inside.
The grove of wild orchids and diverse flora makes this a botanist’s dream, and the optional inside visit to the tombs adds a historical twist. The tour ends at the rustic chapel of Our Lady of Itria, built in 1680 and still in use today, adding a charming and spiritual element to the walk.
What’s Included and What You Should Know
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or nearby location, which simplifies logistics. A fully qualified guide ensures you’re getting accurate, insightful information about Malta’s flora and landscape.
Food and drinks are not included but an optional packed lunch can be purchased—featuring Maltese specialties like Ftira, snacks, and mineral water. Keep in mind that ferry tickets for guests staying on Gozo are not included and must be paid on the spot.
The tour is suitable for most people who enjoy light outdoor activity, but keep in mind the walking distance and terrain. No proper toilet facilities are available during the walk, so it’s wise to plan accordingly.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Practicalities: Comfort, Timing, and Group Size
Starting times vary depending on availability, and the tour operates on a private basis, meaning only your party will participate, allowing for a personalized experience. The total duration of 5 hours gives enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.
Comfortable shoes are essential—hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially since parts of the terrain can be rough or uneven. Weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen are also advised, as Malta’s summer sun can be intense.
The tour is described as easy in difficulty, but a brief 5-minute walk on rough terrain near Bingemma Valley is included, so some light mobility is required.
Prefer private tours? More Rabat Malta exclusive experiences we've written about
Authenticity and Authentic Encounters
Based on reviews, guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm stood out as a real highlight. Jill’s comment about her guide being well-informed underscores how much richer the experience becomes when guided by someone who truly knows their stuff.
Guests appreciated the chance to view Malta’s less-touristy spots, away from crowds, which allows for a more intimate and relaxed nature experience. It’s not a history-focused tour, but the guide’s ability to share interesting facts about the landscape and ecology adds depth to the walk.
Value and Cost Analysis
At $182 per person, the price might seem on the higher side for a half-day activity. However, considering the private group setting, the inclusion of transportation, and the expertise of a certified botanist, the cost is justified for travelers seeking a tailored, educational outdoor experience.
Compared to other Malta tours that focus on history or city sightseeing, this one offers a unique natural perspective, making it especially appealing to nature enthusiasts or those wanting a break from typical sightseeing.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activity, enjoy learning about native flora and landscapes, and prefer a personalized, quiet escape from busy tourist spots. It’s particularly ideal for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, or travelers with a curiosity for Malta’s ecological diversity.
Since it requires some walking and suitable footwear, it’s best suited for active travelers without mobility restrictions. If you’re eager to see Malta’s natural side with expert guidance, this tour checks all those boxes.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is more suited for adults or older children who can comfortably walk 6.5 km and handle some uneven terrain.
Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, but an optional packed lunch can be added during booking, which includes Maltese bread, snacks, and water.
Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or nearby location, making logistics simple.
Can I join if I have limited mobility?
No, the walk involves rough terrain, and it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
How long is the walking portion?
Approximately 6.5 km spread across the three sites, with a mainly easy difficulty level.
Is this a guided historical tour?
No, the focus is on nature and ecology, guided by a botanist, so history is not the main emphasis, although some historical context is shared.
What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable trekking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a bottle of water are recommended.
Final Thoughts
For travelers eager to explore Malta’s natural landscapes, this private, guide-led walking tour offers a peaceful, educational escape. The inclusion of expert commentary from a botanist ensures you’ll leave with more than just scenic photos—you’ll gain a better understanding of Malta’s unique ecosystems.
The tour’s emphasis on off-the-beaten-path locations like Chadwick Lakes, Victoria Lines, and Bingemma Valley makes it ideal for those looking to connect with Malta’s environment beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a wonderful option for nature lovers, small groups or families, and anyone wanting a relaxing yet insightful outdoor experience.
While the price reflects a premium experience, the combination of personalized guidance, transportation, and authentic sites makes it a worthwhile investment for a memorable day exploring Malta’s natural side.
You can check if your dates are available here: