Five long epic hikes on the islands of Malta Gozo and Comino!
Inspired by Africa’s iconic Big Five, Malta introduces its own Mediterranean Big Five. This unique eco-tourism concept invites hikers to explore five distinctive trails, each highlighting one of Malta’s characteristic animal species. While these creatures are elusive, the trails offer a fantastic blend of adventure and immersion in Malta’s natural beauty. Learn How to get to Malta and Where is Malta?
Trail 1: The Dolphin’s Traverse
Featured Animal: Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)
Description: Hugging Malta’s coastline, this trail offers breath-taking sea views. Primarily consisting of paved or gravel country lanes, with some minor off-road segments. The most challenging portion lies between Manikata and Mellieha near the finish. Along the way, you’ll travel through beautiful green landscapes, historic villages, and agricultural areas. If you want to hug the coastline all the way it is possible, but it will be much longer and rougher. Plan your route ahead will and do not do this trail (or any of the others) at night, stay safe as accidents are rare but not unheard off along these cliffs.
Starting Point: Għar Lapsi
Ending Point: Mellieħa Bay
Notable Landmarks:
- Blue Grotto
- Dingli Cliffs
- Golden Bay
- Popeye Village
Trail Stats:
- Max/Min elevation: 237 m / -6 m
- Distance: 50.96 km
- Elevation gain/loss: 805 m / 800 m
- Technical difficulty: Moderate
- Trail type: One Way
Suggested Days: 2 days (split the trail by overnighting near Golden Bay or Dingli Cliffs)
Trail 2: The Chameleon’s Middle Malta Trek
Featured Animal: Mediterranean Chameleon (Chamaeleo chamaeleon)
Description:A challenging multi-day hike through Malta’s interior, this route takes you through a mix of traditional and modern villages, urban zones, and countryside, guiding you from one end of the island to the other. It’s an intriguing journey, and we bet you’ll leave with at least one story to share at your next dinner party if you complete the entire trek. While the chance of spotting a chameleon is slim, keep your eyes peeled—you never know! Regardless, the vibrant landscapes create a stunning backdrop for your adventure.
Starting Point: St. Thomas Bay
Ending Point: St. Paul’s Bay
Notable Landmarks:
- Marsaskala
- Xrobb l-Għaġin Nature Park
- St. Peter’s Pool
- Mistra Bay
- Mnajdra and Hagar Qim
Trail Stats:
- Distance: 40.02 km
- Elevation gain/loss: 584 m / 563 m
- Technical difficulty: Moderate
- Trail type: One Way
- Max/Min elevation: 198 m / 3 m
Suggested Days: 1-2 days (ideal for an overnight stay near Marsaskala or Mistra Bay)
Trail 3: The Shearwater’s Circle
Featured Animal: Yelkouan Shearwater (Puffinus yelkouan)
Description: Looping around the serene island of Comino, this trail is a birder’s paradise. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times to spot the elusive Yelkouan Shearwater. While the birds can be tricky to spot in flight, the dramatic cliffside scenery will keep you captivated. Be sure to respect their nesting areas and tread lightly. Plenty of snacks along this route!
Starting/Ending Point: Comino Ferry Terminal ( There are ferry from both Cirkewwa and Sliema to Comino )
Notable Landmarks:
- Santa Marija Tower
- Blue Lagoon
- St. Mary’s Battery
- Castle
- Julia’s caves
- Modern Ruins
Trail Stats:
- Distance: 7.24 km
- Elevation gain/loss: 80 m / 80 m
- Technical difficulty: Easy
- Trail type: Loop
- Max/Min elevation: 71 m / 6 m
Suggested Days: Half a day (perfect for a leisurely day trip)
Trail 4: The Gozo Goat’s Circuit
Featured Animal: Maltese Goat (Capra aegagrus hircus – local breed)
Description: This demanding loop around Gozo takes you through a variety of landscapes, from rugged cliffs to quiet villages. Although direct sightings of the Maltese Goat are rare, you’ll feel their influence in the traditional farms and terraced fields along the way. It’s a physically demanding hike but offers a deeper connection to Gozo’s rustic charm.
Starting/Ending Point: Victoria (Rabat), Gozo
Notable Landmarks:
- Dwejra Bay (site of the former Azure Window)
- Ġgantija Temples (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Ramla Bay
- Xlendi Cliffs
Trail Stats:
- Distance: 46.89 km
- Elevation gain/loss: 1,190 m / 1,190 m
- Technical difficulty: Difficult
- Trail type: Loop
- Max/Min elevation: 198 m / 8 m
- Estimated time: 13 hours 15 minutes
Suggested Days: 2-3 days (allow time to explore Gozo’s landmarks along the way)
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Trail 5: The Maltese Falcon’s Flight
Featured Animal: Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Description: The biggest one of the big five. Not for the faint of heart, this epic journey around Malta is tailored for expert hikers. Peregrine Falcons are known for their speed and agility, often nesting high on cliff faces. While spotting one may prove challenging, keep your eyes peeled for them soaring overhead as you tackle the island’s longest and most difficult trail.
Starting/Ending Point: Valletta
Notable Landmarks:- Valletta (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Fort Ricasoli
- Marsaxlokk Bay
- Għajn Tuffieħa Cliffs
- St. Paul’s Islands
Trail Stats:
- Distance: 128.41 km
- Elevation gain/loss: 1,778 m / 1,778 m
- Technical difficulty: Experts only
- Trail type: Loop
- Max/Min elevation: 249 m / 0 m
- Estimated time: 1 day 11 hours 44 minutes
Suggested Days: 4-5 days (plan for multi-day rest stops and scenic explorations along the route)
Practical Tips for Hikes in Malta
Practical Tips for Hikes in Malta
- Wildlife Viewing: While each trail offers the potential for wildlife sightings, remember that these animals are elusive. Your best chances come with patience, quiet observation, and a bit of luck.
- Best Seasons: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide the best hiking conditions and an increase in wildlife activity.
- Water and Sun Protection: Malta’s trails offer limited shade, so carry plenty of water and use sun protection.
- Navigation: Download offline maps or bring a physical one, as mobile coverage can be unreliable in certain areas.
- Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to preserve the delicate ecosystems.
- Local Guides: For an enhanced experience, consider hiring a local guide who can share more about the landscape and improve your chances of wildlife spotting.
- Taking a ride back to your AirBnB is ok. There is no need to over complicate your life by booking multiple accommodations along the expected route. These tracks are already quite hard, we would advise to pick one accommodation and travel back each night by uber/bolt and takes you back at the same spot in the morning.
By embarking on Malta’s Big Five trails, you’re not just taking a simple one day hike – you’re immersing yourself in what is Malta truly like, off the beaten path experiencing the rich tapestry of Mediterranean landscapes and culture. Happy hiking!
These are other self guided visits to the islands
