When planning a trip to Malta, don’t forget to set aside time to explore the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino. Malta consists of three islands – each one with their own unique character and charm. Gozo and Comino offer a distinct glimpse into Maltese culture, history and natural beauty.
Gozo, the second largest island in the archipelago, is more rural and slow-paced than Malta. It has been inhabited for over 5,000 years and is home to some of the world’s oldest freestanding structures, such as the Ggantija Temples. Gozo is also known for its traditional crafts, including lace making and pottery, and agriculture, particularly its fresh produce. The island has many quaint villages on offer that every traveler should check out.
In Gozo, you can head to Cittadella that dates back to the Bronze Age. From the walls of the citadel, panoramic views of the island and sea open up. Cittadella is situated in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, which has a bustling market where you can purchase souvenirs. Other top attractions include Xaghra, where the aforementioned Ggantija Temples are located, and the Blue Hole which is a popular swim spot for locals and tourists alike.
Comino, the smallest of the three islands, is celebrated for its turquoise waters and stunning nature. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds, with only one hotel on the island. The Blue Lagoon, a bay with water so clear you can see straight to the bottom, is the island’s main drawcard.
As well as being a nature reserve, Comino is also a bird sanctuary with an abundance of rare and endangered species. Despite its small size, the island has been the site of some significant historical events – including pirate raids, and battles between the Knights of Malta and the Ottoman Empire. A boat tour is, of course, the ultimate way to discover Comino’s rich history and pristine environment if you are coming from Malta.
On a boat trip you will visit remote caves and beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving hotspots, and the Blue Lagoon. One activity that gets overlooked in Comino is hiking. Several great trails are connected together and the scenery on these walks is truly breathtaking. However you choose to experience these spectacular islands, be sure to get in touch with a fantastic company called Gozo Pride Tours for the best tours in all of Malta!
5 Best Tours in Gozo and Comino
Gozo Pride Tours provides a range of options to enhance your Malta vacation. Their primary objective is to showcase the hidden treasures of both Gozo and Comino in an exhilarating way. That is why they specialize in jeep and quad bike journeys, in addition to charters. Jeeps and quads are ideal for off-roading and for navigating to places that are hard to reach by coach or minibus. Below are the best tours in Gozo and Comino they offer:
1. Full Day Jeep Safari of Gozo
The jeep safari is a true adventure to off-the-beaten-path destinations in Gozo that not many tourists venture to. The full day trip begins with an early morning hotel-pickup in Malta before riding on a powerboat to reach Gozo for the start of the tour. On the way back to Malta, you will even be afforded a bit of time to go sightseeing in Comino’s Blue Lagoon and caves.
But the tour highlight is without doubt getting to traverse Gozo’s rugged landscape in a jeep. The photo ops along the way are incredible: Qala Belvedere with its sweeping view of Mgarr, Ggantija megalithic temple complex, Sanap Cliffs (a favorite winter stop-off point), the shimmering Xlendi Bay, the magnificent architecture of Cittadella and more. If you only have one day to spend in Gozo then this jeep safari should be it!
2. Full Day Quad Tour of Gozo
The quad tour of Gozo is similar to the jeep safari but with the obvious difference of quad bikes being utilized to get around. Gozo’s hidden gems are the order of the day as you drive your own vehicle and feel the sun on your face the entire time. Again, this mode of transport allows you to access the best kept secrets that Gozo offers such as the Salt Pans and Marsalforn.
The only thing to keep in mind is that you need to be 21 or older and have a valid driver’s license to be able to use the quad bikes. All of the gear for driving is included – helmets and hairnets – and the only thing you should bring with you is appropriate footwear. This adrenaline-rushing experience is available all year round, so don’t let the mild winter put you off!
3. Exclusive Private Boat Charter of Gozo & Comino
For those planning a getaway in Malta with family or friends, there is no better boat charter to book than this one with Gozo Pride Tours. You will be cruising along the coast of Gozo and Comino aboard the elegant 12-meter Princess 415. It comes equipped with everything you need to enjoy a chilled and comfortable experience: air-conditioning, kitchen, bathrooms, deck with a hot shower and WiFi. The vessel can accommodate up to 20 people.
The charter is customizable to your group’s requirements. The duration as well as the places visited can all be tailored to suit your desires. Snorkeling equipment is provided for free to help you spot marine life and a sunset dinner can be included for something extra special. No matter the occasion – whether it be a bachelor/bachelorette party or just a fun day out with the family – this charter ticks all the boxes for Gozo and Comino’s coast!
4. Exclusive Private Sunset Charter – Gozo & Comino
The sunset charter takes you to all the hidden bays and swimming spots you expect with Gozo Pride Tours, with the added benefit of admiring a magical sundowner on the Mediterranean as the cherry on top. The professional and qualified captain ensures everyone is at ease, so your only job is to sit back and relax! A dinner can also be arranged for golden hour.
Couples find this private boat charter to be romantic. Imagine proposing to your loved one under the glow of a Maltese sunset while savoring delectable cuisine? It’s the stuff dreams are made of. Yet, the charter is for anyone who wants to create epic memories in this beautiful archipelago.
5. Combination (Land & Sea) Gozo & Comino Tour
This might just be Gozo Pride Tours’ top experience because it combines the best of land and sea together. You will be heading across the awesome Gozo landscapes on a jeep safari and then seeing the dazzling Gozo seascapes by boat. The day is split up evenly with three hours dedicated to the jeep and three hours for the boat, with an hour for lunch in between.
Highlights of the land section include Victoria and Cittadella, Calypso Cave and Dwejra. While the sea part is exciting because you will be swimming in the Blue Lagoon of Comino, discovering the Comino caves and (depending on the wind) swinging by San Blas Bay in Gozo. *Please note that this specific tour only runs on Tuesday during the peak season of summer.
