Calling all Latvian adventurers! If you're seeking a holiday where stunning landscapes meet thrilling exploration, Malta is your next unforgettable destination. Beyond its fascinating history and charming towns, this Mediterranean gem truly shines with its incredible natural wonders.
Imagine hiking along the breathtaking cliffs, diving into the iridescent waters, or venturing to an enchanting island. Forget the ordinary beach holiday; come to Malta for an adventure that will awaken your senses and leave you with incredible stories.
Before you embark on your green odyssey to Malta, a little preparation will go a long way in ensuring a sustainable and enjoyable trip.
Good news for Latvian citizens! Since both Latvia and Malta are members of the Schengen Area and the European Union, Latvian passport holders do not need a visa to enter Malta for short-term tourist stays up to 90 days within any 180 days. You can travel with just your valid Latvian passport or even your national ID card.
Starting in late 2025, travellers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an ETIAS authorisation before entering the Schengen Area. This is not a visa, but a travel authorisation system designed to enhance security. Keep an eye on official EU travel information for the exact implementation date and application process.
Flying from Riga to Malta is relatively straightforward, with direct flights and various connecting options available. Both Riga International Airport (RIX) and Malta International Airport (MLA) serve as modern and efficient hubs.
While direct flights offer the quickest route to start your Maltese adventure, connecting flights provide more flexibility in terms of schedules and sometimes offer competitive pricing. Prices can vary significantly based on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book, with the cheapest fares often found in the shoulder seasons.
Malta is increasingly embracing sustainable tourism. Look for hotels and guesthouses with green certifications that prioritise energy efficiency, solar power, and water conservation. Traditional Maltese farmhouses, often converted into charming guesthouses, offer an authentic and sustainable stay, providing insight into the island's agricultural heritage. Supporting these eco-conscious businesses directly contributes to the preservation of Malta's natural resources. Check for establishments that promote local produce and minimise waste.
Think light, practical, and eco-friendly. Reusable water bottles are a must, as Malta's tap water is safe to drink, reducing your reliance on single-use plastics. Pack sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring rugged trails and comfortable swimwear for dips in crystal-clear waters.
Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are essential due to Malta's strong Mediterranean sun. Consider reef-safe sunscreen to protect delicate marine ecosystems if you plan on snorkelling or diving. Quick-drying clothing is always a good idea.
A small backpack for day trips, binoculars for birdwatching, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes will complete your gear. Remember to pack a portable power bank for your devices, especially if you plan to be off-grid for extended periods.
Malta's small size belies the diversity of its natural landscapes, from towering cliffs and hidden coves to tranquil valleys and marine reserves.
For Latvian hikers who appreciate varied terrain, Malta offers a surprising network of trails. The Dingli Cliffs Walk on the main island of Malta presents breathtaking panoramic views. As the highest point on the island, the cliffs plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea, offering spectacular vistas, especially at sunset. This moderate 13 km trek takes approximately 3 hours and rewards your efforts with stunning sea caverns and white rock formations.
The Majjistral Nature and History Park, located in the northwest of Malta, is a protected area rich in biodiversity and historical significance. Explore its coastal paths, discover hidden coves, and observe migratory birds. The park offers various walking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging routes, allowing you to immerse yourself in Malta's unique flora and fauna.
On the sister island of Gozo, the Xlendi Tower to Ta' Cenc Cliffs Route provides unparalleled views of the dramatic coastline. This trail, part of the Munxar-Xlendi Heritage Trail, showcases Gozo's pristine and wild beauty. The Ta' Cenc Cliffs themselves are magnificent and expansive, offering a truly wild and evocative experience.
Another fantastic option on Gozo is the Dwejra Bay coastal walks. While the iconic Azure Window collapsed, the area remains a natural wonder, offering a rugged landscape of limestone formations, the Inland Sea, and the Blue Hole, which are now popular diving spots. The coastal trails here allow you to explore this geologically fascinating area at your own pace.
For a truly immersive experience, consider the Malta Coastal Walk, a multi-day hike spanning 155 km, offering a complete package of old forts, chapels, Neolithic temples, and picturesque beaches. This moderate trek can be broken down into shorter sections.
Malta's clear, warm Mediterranean waters are a diver's paradise, boasting an abundance of marine life and fascinating underwater landscapes, including caves and shipwrecks. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem and avoid touching or disturbing any marine life.
Cirkewwa Marine Park on the northern tip of Malta is a must-visit for divers of all skill levels. It features two renowned wrecks, the Tug Boat ROZI and the P29 Patrol Boat, alongside natural arches and swim-throughs. The shallow areas are perfect for beginners, while experienced divers can explore deeper sites. Remember to choose responsible dive operators that prioritise marine conservation and brief you on ethical diving practices.
The Blue Grotto on the southern coast of Malta offers a stunning display of illuminated sea caves accessible by boat. While a boat trip is popular, snorkelling in the clear waters near the caves provides an opportunity to witness the vibrant marine life and the unique interplay of light and water.
Gozo's Inland Sea at Dwejra is a unique natural lagoon connected to the open sea by a narrow tunnel. It's a popular spot for both diving and boat trips, offering a chance to explore a sheltered underwater environment. The nearby Blue Hole, once part of the Azure Window, is now considered an even more spectacular diving site, with various rock formations and abundant marine life.
Exploring Malta's coastline by kayak or paddleboard offers a unique perspective and allows you to access secluded coves and sea caves unreachable by larger boats.
Gozo Adventures offers guided kayak tours around Gozo and Comino, including half-day and full-day options. These tours are suitable for all skill levels, allowing you to paddle along the coast, explore inside caves, and enjoy the pristine waters. The flexibility of these tours means the route can be adapted based on weather conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Consider a "Golden Hour" kayak tour around St Paul's Island for a truly magical experience.
For a more independent adventure, you can rent kayaks and explore areas like Mellieha Bay or Golden Bay. These sheltered bays offer calm waters, ideal for beginners, and provide opportunities to discover small caves and rock formations along the shore.
Despite its small size, Malta is a crucial stopover point for migratory birds travelling between Europe and Africa. This makes it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers, particularly during spring and autumn migration seasons.
The Għadira Nature Reserve in Mellieħa is a brackish lake and wetland area, a haven for wading birds and various species of herons. It's an excellent spot for observing a diverse range of birdlife.
The Simar Nature Reserve, another wetland area, provides a sanctuary for Malta's more secretive birds, hidden amongst the reedbeds. Both reserves are managed by BirdLife Malta, an organisation dedicated to bird conservation on the islands.
Buskett Woodlands, originally hunting grounds for the Knights of Malta, is a semi-natural mature woodland located in a valley near Dingli. This green oasis attracts various bird species, especially during migration, and offers a tranquil setting for a stroll. Other notable birdwatching locations include Foresta 2000 (an afforestation project), Chadwick Lakes, and the dramatic coastal area of Dwejra on Gozo.
To ensure your eco-adventure in Malta is both enjoyable and responsible, keep these tips in mind:
While public transport offers a sustainable option for getting around Malta, for Latvian nature lovers who seek the flexibility to explore the archipelago's most pristine and remote natural wonders at their own pace, renting a car is highly recommended.
Malta's public bus network is extensive, but reaching some of the more secluded hiking trailheads, hidden bays, or lesser-known birdwatching spots can be challenging and time-consuming without your own transport. With a rental car, you have the freedom to wake up early for a sunrise hike at Dingli Cliffs, spend the day exploring the diverse landscapes of Majjistral Park, and then chase the sunset at a remote Gozitan beach without being beholden to bus schedules.
A car allows you to easily hop between Malta and Gozo via the ferry, giving you complete autonomy to discover the unique natural charms of both islands. You can pack your hiking gear, snorkelling equipment, and picnic baskets without worrying about luggage limits or navigating crowded buses. It offers the convenience to venture off the beaten path, discover charming rural villages, and stumble upon unexpected natural beauty that might otherwise remain hidden.
Ensure you understand the local driving rules (Malta drives on the left) and parking regulations. Opting for a reputable car hire company will ensure a well-maintained vehicle and smooth service, allowing you to focus on the joy of your eco-adventure.
By renting a car, you gain the ultimate flexibility to create your itinerary, linger longer in places that capture your heart, and truly immerse yourself in the natural splendour of Malta and Gozo. It transforms your trip from a mere visit into a self-guided exploration, allowing you to connect deeply with the islands' ecological treasures.
So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and prepare to be enchanted by the unexpected natural beauty of Malta. Rent a car on Finalrentals today—your eco-adventure awaits!
