Safari tours in Santorini cut straight to the island’s scenic heart. Two standout options deserve special mention. The Photo Safari delivers exactly what shutterbugs need, with stops at the dramatic Red Beach, historic Santorini Lighthouse, and the charming backstreets of Megalochori Village. I’m particularly impressed by the Beach Gallop tour – it’s a refreshing break from typical tourist routes, offering experienced riders an exciting countryside trek to Eros Beach. Both tours feature knowledgeable local guides and consistently earn high marks from travelers. Although some riders note saddle soreness, it’s a small trade-off for such authentic island exploration. Let’s explore these top-rated Santorini safari options.
Key Points
- The Santorini Photo Safari offers highlights like the Red Beach, Santorini Lighthouse, and Megalochori Village, showcasing the island’s unique landscapes and architecture.
- Scenic locations on the island include Skaros Rock, Oia Main Street, and the Windmills of Santorini, providing opportunities for breathtaking photography.
- The Beach Gallop Tour is a thrilling horseback riding experience through the Santorini countryside, designed for experienced riders seeking an adventure.
- The Beach Gallop Tour is priced at $176.92 per person, with a 94% recommendation rate and generally favorable customer feedback.
- However, the Beach Gallop Tour has certain physical requirements and accessibility limitations, making it unsuitable for some participants.
Santorini Photo Safari Top Places
The Santorini Photo Safari tour takes visitors to the island’s most picturesque spots, offering ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs. One of the highlights is the Red Beach, known for its unique landscape of dark blue waters and crimson rocks.
The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Santorini Lighthouse, which provides panoramic cliff views. Travelers can explore the captivating Vlychada Beach, with its black sand and clear waters, as well as the traditional windmills and beautiful views of the Castelli of Emporio.
The serene village of Megalochori, with its aesthetic charm, is another must-see location. At the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, visitors can enjoy the stunning vistas from the highest point on the island.
The steep cliffs and breathtaking views of Skaros Rock are also a highlight, as is the scenic Oia Main Street, known for its underground edifices and captain-houses.
Read our full review: Santorini Photo Safari Top Places Review
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Beach Gallop – Horse Riding Safari for Experienced Riders
For experienced riders seeking an exhilarating adventure, the Beach Gallop – Horse Riding Safari offers an unparalleled experience in the stunning landscape of Santorini. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars with a 94% recommendation from travelers, this small-group tour takes riders through the Santorini countryside to the breathtaking Eros Beach, where they can canter and gallop along the shore.
The tour includes helmets and saddlebags, and guests must arrive 30 minutes early and wear comfortable long pants or leggings and closed shoes.
While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour is perfect for riders with a strong physical fitness level.
Priced at $176.92 per person, the Beach Gallop offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Positive reviews highlight the amazing experiences, professional guides, and healthy horses, while some negative feedback mentions staff behavior and discomfort during the ride.
Read our full review: Beach Gallop – Horse Riding Safari for Experienced Riders Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Rent a Camera for the Santorini Photo Safari?
You can usually rent cameras from the tour company for their Santorini photo safari. They’ll provide the equipment and guidance to help you capture the stunning island scenery during the excursion.
Do the Safari Tours Provide Transportation From My Hotel?
The safari tours typically include hotel pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation for participants. Clients don’t need to worry about arranging their own rides, as the tour company handles the logistics.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Beach Gallop Safari?
Most safari tours in Santorini don’t have age restrictions for the beach gallop safari. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons.
Can I Bring My Own Horse for the Riding Safari?
No, you cannot bring your own horse for the riding safari. The tour operator provides the horses and necessary equipment for the safari. Participants must use the horses supplied by the tour company.
Do the Safari Tours Offer Any Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Options?
Many safari tours in Santorini offer vegetarian and vegan meal options to accommodate dietary restrictions. Guests should inquire about the menu when booking to ensure their needs are met during the safari experience.
Recap
Santorini’s photo safari and horseback riding tours offer unique experiences for visitors. The photo safari takes you to the island’s top scenic spots, while the beach gallop caters to experienced riders. Both options provide an unforgettable way to explore Santorini’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or an adventurous spirit, these tours are sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time on the island.