Malta isn't just churches and beaches. The islands' rugged cliffs, rural tracks and very clear water make them a great place for adventure. Here are the best active excursions in Malta and Gozo.
1. Quad bike tours
You ride your own quad in a guided convoy along country lanes and coastal tracks. On Gozo, routes typically take in the Ta' Ċenċ cliffs, the salt pans, Dwejra and quiet viewpoints.
- Duration: half day or full day (with the Gozo ferry)
- Requirements: drivers usually need a valid driving licence and must meet a minimum age, while passengers have their own age limits
- Wear: closed shoes, sunglasses and clothes you don't mind getting dusty
2. Jeep safaris
Open-top 4x4s with a driver-guide take you off the main roads on Gozo or Malta, usually with lunch and a swim stop in summer. You don't need a licence, and it's great for families and groups who want adventure without driving. Read our comparison of Gozo tours vs going independently.
3. Sea kayaking
Paddle around Comino's caves and the Crystal Lagoon, or along Malta's north and south coasts. Guided trips suit beginners and usually include a snorkel stop. It's one of the best ways to see the Blue Lagoon area away from the boat crowds.
4. Scuba diving and snorkelling
Malta and Gozo are among the Mediterranean's best dive destinations, with visibility often exceeding 30 m in summer. Popular sites include:
- Ċirkewwa (Malta): the P29 patrol boat and Rozi tugboat wrecks, plus reefs and an arch
- Dwejra (Gozo): the Blue Hole and the Inland Sea tunnel
- Wied iż-Żurrieq: the Um El Faroud wreck near the Blue Grotto
Beginners can try a discover-scuba session with an instructor, and no certificate is needed. Non-divers can join snorkelling trips.
5. Coasteering, cliff jumping and climbing
Guided coasteering combines scrambling, swimming and jumping along the rocky coastline. Malta's limestone cliffs, such as those near Għar Lapsi and Wied Babu, are also popular for rock climbing. Always go with a qualified guide.
6. Other water sports
Stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing and RIB speedboat tours are available from the main resorts. Browse all water sports in Malta.
Which adventure is right for you?
| Activity | Thrill level | Fitness needed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep safari | Medium | Low | Families, groups |
| Quad bikes | High | Low–medium | Couples, friends (licence needed) |
| Sea kayaking | Medium | Medium | Nature lovers |
| Scuba diving | Medium–high | Medium | Underwater explorers |
| Coasteering | High | High | Confident swimmers |
Safety and booking tips
- Choose licensed, insured operators. Here's why it matters
- Check that your travel insurance covers adventure activities and diving
- Don't fly within 24 hours of scuba diving
- Water activities depend on the weather, so book early in your trip in case they need to be rescheduled
- Bring sun protection, water and secure footwear
Looking for more? See things to do in Malta and family activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you do quad biking in Malta?
Yes. Guided quad bike tours run on both Malta and Gozo, with Gozo being especially popular for its rural tracks and cliffs. Drivers usually need a valid driving licence and must meet a minimum age.
Is Gozo good for jeep safaris?
Yes. Gozo's quiet back roads, cliffs, salt pans and viewpoints make it ideal for jeep safaris, which usually include a driver-guide, lunch and a swim stop in summer.
Can beginners scuba dive in Malta?
Yes. Many dive centres offer discover-scuba sessions for beginners with an instructor, with no certificate needed. Malta and Gozo have calm, clear water and sheltered sites suitable for first dives.
Where can I go kayaking in Malta?
Comino, with its caves and the Crystal Lagoon, is the most popular kayaking area. Guided trips also run along Malta's north and south coasts.
