Jeep Safari Tour Cretan Hills, Hidden Caves and Olive oil & Raki
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is not just another safari — it’s your invitation to **experience Crete the way locals live it**: slow, soulful, and with a touch of raki. While most tours stick to well-trodden roads, **we take the back way** — through mountain villages, olive groves, and hidden hilltops where time has almost stopped.
You won’t just taste olive oil — you’ll learn how it’s made by people who’ve pressed olives the same way for generations. You won’t just sip raki — you’ll stand beside the still where it’s born. From **Skotino’s shadowy cave** to **the panoramic serenity of Ederi hill at sunset**, this tour unfolds like a story, not a schedule.
With only **four guests per vehicle**, it’s personal. With **no big buses, no plastic charm**, and nothing rushed, it’s the kind of journey that connects you to the heart of Crete — one glass, one stone path, and one golden hour at a time.
Available options
Morning Rate
Pick-up Areas: Amoudara, Heraklion, Kokkini, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras, Hersonissos<br/>Olive Mill & Raki Distillery : Tour & Tastings<br/>Small Group Tour: Maximum 4 people per SUV<br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Light Snack at The distillery<br/>4WD SUV<br/>Pickup included
Afternoon Rate
Pick-up Areas: Amoudara, Heraklion, Karteros, kokkini Hani, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras, hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari<br/>Small Group Tour<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>4WD SUV<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transportation in 4x4 Jeep (4 guests max)
Light snack during tasting
Bottled water on board
Entry to all stops
Olive oil and raki tasting
Local driver-guide
Detailed itinerary
1
This lesser-known sacred cave, dedicated in ancient times to Artemis, remains untouched by mass tourism. You'll descend a few stone steps to explore its vast, echoing chambers filled with mystique, myth, and cool damp air. A flashlight and a little imagination bring the shadows to life.
Locals still whisper tales about the goats that never returned and the hermits who did.
2
Hidden among pine trees, this tranquil nunnery dates back to the 14th century. Its serene courtyard, aged frescoes, and flower-filled balconies offer a moment of peaceful reflection and a glance into Cretan Orthodox devotion.
If you listen closely, the wind sometimes sounds like chanting.
3
A brief walk through the narrow lanes of Voritsi will show you how life still flows slowly in the mountains. Whitewashed walls, quiet courtyards, old men under mulberry trees. This is the Cretan countryside unplugged.
No shops, no tourism – just authenticity and thyme in the air.
4
Our final and most flavorful stop for the morning tour. You’ll enjoy:
A guided tour through the olive mill to see the cold-press process in action
Tasting of different olive oils with local rusks and sea salt
A visit to the on-site rakokazano (raki distillery)
Raki tasting session with a light snack platter (gruyere, olives, tomato, paximadi)
Here, you’ll not just drink raki — you’ll understand it.
5
Only available in the afternoon tour. We climb one final dirt track to reach the hidden hill of Ederi. Here, we’ll park the Jeeps and take a short walk to a scenic viewpoint.
Watch the sun melt into the Aegean
Sip on a final glass of raki or a fresh juice
Perfect moment for reflection, photos, or just soaking in the peace
It’s the kind of sunset that lingers in your memory long after your tan fades.
What's not included
This is not a full dinner experience — only a light snack is provided during the raki tasting.
Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
**Jeep Safari Tour: Cretan Hills, Hidden Caves & Liquid Gold**
**Duration:** Approx. 5 hours
**Tour Type:** Semi-private (2–3 jeeps per departure)
**Group Size:** Up to 4 guests per jeep + driver
**Start Times:** 09:30 (Morning) / 17:30 (Afternoon)
**Pick-up From:** Amoudara, Heraklion, Karteros, Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras, Hersonissos, Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Stalis, Malia
**Itinerary Summary**
**Departure (09:30 / 17:30):** Head inland through olive groves and quiet mountain roads toward Crete’s hidden interior.
**Skotino Cave:** Visit an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Artemis. Walk down into its chambers and feel the cool air of the underworld.
**Kera Eleousa Monastery:** Explore this peaceful 14th-century nunnery surrounded by pine trees and filled with history and faith.
**Voritsi Village:** Discover authentic mountain life in a tiny, untouched village — whitewashed walls, narrow lanes, and pure simplicity.
**Olive Mill & Raki Distillery:** Tour a working olive mill, taste premium olive oil, and sample traditional Cretan raki with local snacks.
**Ederi Hilltop (Afternoon Tour Only):** Watch the sunset from a secret viewpoint with panoramic views of the Aegean.
**Return to Heraklion:** Scenic drive back through the Cretan countryside (around 14:30 / 21:30).
**Included**
* Professional local driver–escort
* Shared or private jeep (depending on booking)
* Olive oil and raki tasting with snacks
* Bottled water
* Fuel, insurance, and taxes
**Not Included**
* Personal expenses or souvenirs
* Gratuities (optional)
* Meals (beyond light tastings)
**What makes this experience unique:**
This isn’t a highway drive—it’s a journey through Crete’s hidden heart. You’ll explore ancient caves, visit silent monasteries, meet real locals, and taste olive oil and raki straight from the source. It’s an off-road story told with Cretan dust, flavor, and soul.
About Heraklion
Heraklion, the largest city on the island of Crete, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern life. Known for its rich Minoan heritage, bustling markets, and stunning Venetian architecture, it offers a unique Mediterranean experience. The city's lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and proximity to ancient sites make it an appealing destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of Greece's most important museums, it houses a vast collection of Minoan artifacts, including frescoes and pottery.
Museum
2-3 hours
€10
Knossos Palace
The ancient Minoan palace of Knossos is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It's one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15
Koules Fortress
A Venetian fortress located at the entrance of the old harbor, offering stunning views of the sea and city.
Historical
1 hour
€2
Heraklion Beach
A popular beach near the city center, offering a mix of relaxation and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, mizithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Stifado
A slow-cooked stew made with beef, onions, and spices, often served with potatoes.
Main Course
Contains meat
Greek Salad
A fresh salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Raki
A traditional Cretan spirit often served as an aperitif or digestif.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Scuba diving
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Museum visits
Historical site tours
Swimming
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the city's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Heraklion is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to take common precautions to avoid petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Be cautious at night in less populated areas
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city. Buses are frequent and reliable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Old Harbor
Amoudara
Day trips
Knossos Palace
5 km • Half day
Explore the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Rethymno
65 km • Full day
A charming town with a mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, beautiful beaches, and a lively old town.
Arkadi Monastery
23 km • Half day
A historic monastery with a rich history and beautiful architecture, located in the countryside.
Festivals
Heraklion Wine Festival • July
International Music and Dance Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Try local Cretan dishes at traditional tavernas
- Explore the old harbor area for a mix of history and seafood dining
- Rent a car to explore the island's beaches and countryside
- Visit Knossos Palace with a guided tour for a more in-depth experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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