Top Heraklion Nature and Wildlife Tours - page 4

The Soul of Crete Unveiled Experience the extraordinary depth of Crete on an exclusive 10-hour private journey through the heart of Rethymno. Departing from Chania or Heraklion in a premium vehicle, this bespoke tour bridges the gap between ancient myths and living traditions. A Journey Through Time & Art Your day unfolds across four iconic landmarks: the heroic Arkadi Monastery, a global symbol of freedom; Ancient Eleutherna, where the "Homeric Crete" comes to life through unique museum and archaeological site; and the artisan village of Margarites, famous for its centuries-old pottery tradition. The adventure culminates in the romantic, UNESCO-listed Rethymno Old Town, where Venetian fortifications and Ottoman architecture create a timeless atmosphere of beauty. The Ultimate Private Experience Designed for those who demand the highest standards, this tour is 100% customizable. Your professional driver tailors every stop to your interests, ensuring a seamless flow from door-to-door.

Gramvoussa and Balos are famous for their beauty but can be difficult to reach on your own. Join this action-packed day tour to visit some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, watch birds on the uninhabited island of Gramvoussa, and cool off with a swim in the lagoon at Balos. Learn about the history of Gramvoussa and find out why it’s nicknamed Pirates’ Island.

You’ve spent time in Greece’s best cities and along the coast—now it’s time to experience Crete’s inland nature. After pickup from your hotel, you’ll travel to a hidden gorge for a serene hiking adventure, getting to know the island’s wild side. Over 3.5 hours, your local guide highlights the area’s flora and fauna, leading the way along craggy rock formations and to a moment away from it all.

Enjoy a guided tour of the historical site Knossos Palace and explore places at the Plateau of Lassithi such us the Greek Mythology thematic park and the Monastery of Kera. Lasithi Plateau, is situated 850 m. higher than the sea level. It is surrounded by the Dikti Mountains and 18 quaint villages, which still retain the atmosphere of another era. You can admire the remaining famous windmills and the Venetian ditches, the drainage system of the Plateau.

Explore Crete by sail with a scenic day cruise to Gramvousa and Balos. Get picked up at your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle and admire views during the drive to the west edge of Crete. Climb aboard a boat and sail to Gramvousa, or Pirates Island. Cool off with a swim in the turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon and get to know Crete from a fresh perspective.

Follow the lead of this excursion on the way to Ierapetra by bus, accompanied by the morning sun. Soon after embarking in the boat, enjoy the trip in the Libyan sea on your way to Chrissi island where you will taste the natural beauty of a unique and protected by “Natura 2000” golden beach.

Join a unique catamaran adventure from Heraklion to the beautiful, unspoiled Dia Island. Sail in comfort and style aboard a spacious catamaran, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere as you cruise along Crete’s stunning northern coastline. Swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel, try paddleboarding, or simply lounge on the wide deck or netting areas and soak in the sun. A freshly prepared Cretan lunch will be served on board, including seafood or vegetarian pasta, Greek salad, and fruit salad — all paired with unlimited local white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water. Our friendly local crew will make you feel right at home, sharing stories, laughter, myths about the Island of Dia. You can choose to meet us directly at Heraklion Port, or opt for convenient transfers from nearby areas like Malia, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Gouves, and more. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this catamaran trip is an unforgettable way to connect with the sea, nature, and soul of Crete.

Maximize time in Crete with a full-day combination guided tour. Get picked up at your hotel and set out on a coach sightseeing tour focused on archaeology and culture. See popular landmarks including the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, Dikteon Cave, and the Palace of Knossos. Admire panoramic views from Seli Ambelou Lasithi Plateau, visit an olive oil factory, and go inside a ceramic workshop to see a potter at work.

Visit Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, is located in Elounda from where we take the boat for Spinalonga island. Originally, Venetians fortified the islet in 1579, by building a fortress with 40 cannons and they are actually the best preserved walls in Europe. Visit Agios Nikolaos and walk around the famous Lake Voulismeni

Enjoy an evening to remember in Crete—and immerse yourself in the local culture, cuisine, and traditions—on this one-of-a-kind excursion. In the evening, travel via shuttle directly from your hotel to a local olive producer, where you’ll see how olive oil (and olive soap) are made, can taste local products (including Cretan wine), and more. Next, enjoy a generous buffet meal, accompanied by Cretan dance and music performances.

This adventure is suitable for people seeking unforgettable moments in the stunning Cretan mountains. Be part of Crete's highest mountain and Psiloritis UNESCO Global Geopark and get to see the endemic flora and fauna of the alpine altitude of Crete. See the highest peak of Crete at 2456m altitude. Get in the cave of Zeus in the heart of mountain Psiloritis. Hike through Rouvas forest, the biggest oak forest on the island. See deep canyons and valleys full of olive groves in the south. See the beautiful lake of Zaros on the south slopes of Psiloritis Natural Park and immerse yourself in pure nature. -Be part of Psiloritis Natural Park and see the highest peak of Crete at 2456m -Take in panoramic views of the Aegean and Libyan Sea -Get into the mythical cave of Zeus -Discover the unique flora and fauna of the alpine altitude of Crete -Enjoy a guided hike through Rouvas oak forest in the heart of the natural park -See the lake of Zaros on the south slopes of Psiloritis mountain

Matala, a stunning beach in Crete, offers a blend of history, mythology, and relaxation. Located near the ancient palace of Phaistos, this unique destination is famous for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Once a haven for hippies in the 60s and 70s, the iconic caves carved into cliffs now invite visitors to explore their rich history. Relax on the beach, savor delicious local cuisine, and wander through charming streets filled with vibrant architecture and shops. Matala is a perfect escape for those seeking sun, culture, and a touch of adventure. - Visit the historic caves once used by ancient Romans and hippies - Enjoy swimming and sunbathing on Matala's golden beach - Stroll through the village's colorful streets and local shops - Discover the myth of Zeus and Europa in this culturally rich area

Discover the allure of Vai Palm Beach in Sitia—a slice of the Caribbean nestled within Crete’s shores. Swaying palm trees, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters transport you to a faraway island paradise. The lush palm forest, native to the area for over 2,000 years, adds an exotic touch. Pirates once planted these palms, and their legacy remains. Advertisers even featured Vai’s enchanting palm forest in a Bounty chocolate bar commercial, highlighting its irresistible appeal. Spend blissful hours lounging on soft sands, soaking up the sun, and listening to the gentle lapping of waves. Vai Beach invites you to unwind and escape. Explore hidden coves and coastal nooks—the secrets of this tropical haven. Whether you’re swimming in the cool sea or strolling along the shore, adventure awaits. 12.15 Arrival at Vai Beach (short stop between) 16.15 Departure from Vai Palm Beach 19:00 Arrival in Malia (short stop between) ROUTE: 150 km DURATION: 10 hours STAY IN VAI PALM BEACH: app. 4 hours

Experience the allure of Voulisma Beach. Located on a brief journey from Heraklion, Voulisma is located near the urban city of Agios Nicolaos. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy four hours immersing yourself in the beach’s beauty at your leisure. Whether you wish to soak up the sun, swim in the refreshing waters, or discover the local area, the time is yours. Relish the local flavors at beachfront bars and tavernas, indulging in the authentic tastes of Crete. As the day concludes, you’ll return to your accommodation.

Once we pick you up, we'll embark on a picturesque journey towards the southwest, passing through charming villages like Vrysses. The road will be adorned with magnificent olive trees and dotted with small rivers, creating a truly mesmerizing backdrop. Around 9:30, we'll make a refreshing coffee stop at the entrance of Imbros gorge before embarking on an unforgettable adventure through this scenic wonder. With an approximate duration of 3 hours, our knowledgeable guide will be by your side, providing captivating insights about our lovely island and the breathtaking gorge. As we reach the exit of the gorge, you'll find our air-conditioned bus awaiting to transport you to a quaint traditional village where you can indulge in delectable Cretan flavors or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea. Around 17:00, we'll commence our journey back to the pick-up points, ensuring your safe and comfortable return.

Up to the south-westernmost point of the island, in one of the most spectacular and unexpected locations on the island is where we will spend the day. Elafonisi is a place of exceptional natural beauty, something between an island and a peninsula, as you have to walk through the sea to reach it. Once occupied by pirates, today it is a very popular destination for day trippers who flood there to faraway lagoon, whilst having a Mediterranean holiday. Elafonisi is a paradise on earth – a heaven of unparalleled beauty. It is covered with sand dunes, low trees, bushes, sand lilies and junipers. You can get there on foot from the beach by passing through shallow aquamarine and turquoise waters. The white and pink sand made of thousands of broken seashells, the limpid blue-green waters, the little coves and the secluded tiny beaches remind the travelers of a paradise lost. Take a swim in the warm tropical waters and relax under the hot summer sun!

Enjoy a day of sun, sea, and sand at Voulisma Beach on a day trip from Heraklion. Swim in the crystal-clear waters and relax on the golden sand. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of Crete’s most beautiful and serene beaches. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Voulisma Beach—also known as Golden Beach—has something for everyone. Just a short drive from Heraklion, it offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure. Renowned for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and pristine golden sands, this postcard-perfect setting is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. With its calm, shallow waters, Voulisma Beach is perfect for families with children, providing a safe and welcoming environment. It has also been awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and high environmental standards. You will have four hours of free time to explore and enjoy the beach at your own pace.

Lasithi Plateau is one of the few areas in the Mediterranean with permanent inhabitants at an altitude over 800 meters. It is surrounded by the Dikti Mountains and 18 quaint villages, which still retain the atmosphere of another era. Here you can visit the Dictean Cave with the fantastic stalactites and stalagmites, where according to the myth the father of the Greek ancient Gods, Zeus, was born. The next stop will be the famous village of Psychro, well known for its handmade ceramics. Tzermiado, the capital of the villages on the plateau, will amaze you with its natural beauty. Our last stop is monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, a monastery inhabited and run by nuns, which is located in an idyllic landscape. 10:15 Arrival in Dicteon Cave 11:45 Departure from Cave 12:20 Departure frpm Psychro - ceramics 12:40 Arrival in Tzermiado – Time for lunch 13:40 Departure from Tzermiado 14:00 Arrival in Monastery of Kera 14:30 Departure from Monastery 16:00 Arrival Heraklion

An adventure filled excursion for those who love the unspoiled nature and the wild landscape of Elafonissi which is considered to be a living paradise on Earth. Our day starts early in the morning when the bus will pick us up from your hotel and after a beautiful drive, passing from picturesque villages that emerge through the green mountains, we will reach the area of Elafonissi. The beautiful sandy beaches fringed with pink coral sand and the crystal clear waters of the sea and the lagoon, will make you feel like being in heaven. Wade through the knee deep water of the lagoon (sometimes the channel closes and you can walk all the way without having to get your feet wet) and head to the island. There are many small beaches on the South side and the further you walk the quieter it gets. The water is generally quite shallow and safe for children. After a 5-hour stay in Elafonissi, our comfortable bus will return us back to the hotel, late in the afternoon.

The beach of Preveli, also known as Lake Preveli or Phoenix, is located at the exit of the imposing Kourtaliotikos Gorge, where the Grand River (Megalos Potamos) flows. It is certainly the most famous beach in South Crete, accepting thousands of visitors every summer. During the ‘60s and ‘70s, it was a favorite destination for the hippies. On the banks of the Grand River there is a large colony of Theophrastus palm trees, which give the region a sense of a tropical landscape. You can walk along the river, under the shade of palm trees, and start ascending in the beautiful canyon. The bus will stop at a parking lot, the closest to the beach, where there is a path descending down to the beach. The parking is located near towering vertical cliffs, where you can take some fantastic photos. To reach the beach walk the footpath (app. 300 stairs) that takes about 15 minutes. After, approximately 4 hours of free time at the beach, the day will come to an end and we will return back

Those walking boots will get a good workout during this hike through the Samaria Gorge. This 16km-long ravine is the longest in Europe. So it's a serious – but spectacular – five to six-hour trek that's not for the unfit or faint-hearted. You'll start by driving through the White Mountains to your starting point – the Xyloskalo staircase, which zigzags some 200 meters down into the gorge. You'll pass tiny chapels, walk between the high ravine walls and maybe spot some of Crete's wild ‘kri-kri' goats. The highlight though, is the ‘Iron Gates' – the narrowest section of the gorge where the 300-metre-high walls stand just 3 meters apart. At the end, you'll reach the seaside village of Agia Roumeli, where if you've made good time, you can take a swim or relax in a taverna. Then, when everyone's ready, you'll catch a boat along the coast to where your coach awaits. Great for outdoor types.

This tour offers a rare and authentic glimpse into the untouched heart of Crete — far from tourist crowds. Embark on an off-road adventure through the scenic landscapes of southern Crete in specially equipped Jeeps/SUVs with professional driver-guides. Begin with a relaxing stop at the sunny seaside village of Myrtos, where guests can enjoy coffee by the crystal-clear waters, swim, or simply unwind. The journey continues to the Omalos Plateau in Viannos, traveling through pine forests and fresh mountain air, offering gentle off-road exploration amid untouched natural beauty. The adventure concludes in the authentic mountain village of Viannos, where panoramic views, traditional kafeneia, and warm local hospitality provide a perfect end to the day.

Explore the unique island come peninsula of Elafonissi, a place of exceptional natural beauty. A trip to this famous lagoon which is located in the south- west corner of crete , with its crystal clear water and pink coral sands is unforgettable. After 4 hours we arrived at Elafonissi Beach, the famous lagoon with its pink coral sands and the crystal clear water. There you will have 4,5 hours of free time to swim, have lunch and take some photos. You can have a sunbed or wade across to the island. In peak season it can be a very busy beach. There are canteens for drinks and snacks. Immerse yourself in the exceptional natural beauty of the unique island of Elafonisi on a day tour from Heraklion. Admire the pink sand, swim in the crystal clear water, take photos, and more.

This unique experience combines an exciting off-road safari through the stunning Lasithi Plateau with an unforgettable hot air balloon flight above Crete’s breathtaking landscapes. Travelers can explore traditional villages, enjoy panoramic mountain viewpoints, taste authentic local products including olive oil, wine, and raki, take part in a pottery lesson with local artisans, and enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch with wine. The combination of adventure, culture, local gastronomy, and spectacular aerial views makes this tour a truly unforgettable way to discover the authentic side of Crete.