10 Exciting Adventure Sports to try in Malta

Here’s our list of the top 10 adventure sports to try in Malta

If you’re looking for thrilling adventures amidst the beautiful setting of crystal-clear waters and historic landscapes, Malta is the perfect place for you. Prepare to indulge in the world of extreme sports in Malta, where the gentle Mediterranean Sea meets the exhilarating rush of adrenaline.

1. Rock Climbing

Climbing in Malta is a memorable experience, with thousands of bolted routes located in some of the most picturesque valleys and sea view cliff sides you can imagine. When most climbers in northern countries are forced indoors due to weather conditions, Malta’s fine weather allows for outdoor climbing all year round. South-facing crags are ideal to bask in the sunshine during the winter, while north-facing crags allow for shade during the hot summer.

2. Abseiling

Most of the crags used for climbing also have top access for top rope climbing, which is also ideal for abseiling. There are several beautiful locations for abseiling in Malta, which are suited for beginners and children as well as the most experienced.

3. Deep Water Soloing

Deep water soloing is a form of rock climbing on sea cliffs, which make up 60% of Malta’s coast. It relies on the presence of water at the base of a climb to cushion against falls, and a certain confidence about how to fall in water and climb without a harness is essential. DWS is the preferred climbing option for many climbers during the hot season – there is nothing more refreshing than dropping straight into the sea after a hard climb!

4. Bouldering & Coasteering

Are you too scared of heights to climb or DWS? Then do it sideways! Bouldering requires no equipment but your climbing shoes and bare hands. Coasteering involves climbing and bouldering along the coast until one can go no further, jumping into the sea, and swimming to the next suitable climbing point – a truly exhilarating way to explore the dramatic Maltese coastline.

5. Kayaking

A wonderful way to explore cliffs, caves, arches and bays is by kayak. It’s toned down compared to coasteering but adventurous nonetheless … and you can go much further than you could on your own steam. With a little practice, you’ve already mastered the hand paddles, and that’s all you need to focus on. Kayaks come in singles and doubles for a solo or shared experience and allow space to store goodies so you can make a day of it.

6. Diving

Diving is a huge sport in Malta. Boat dives and underwater caving are popular ways to experience the best of the sea. The fantastic limestone cliffs continue down to a depth of up to 100 metres into the water, with several caves and tunnels to tickle the curiosity of divers. Boat dives to inaccessible stretches of coast, reefs, and wrecks reveal a wonderful abundance of marine life, such as seahorses, eagle rays and even blue sharks. Gozo, in particular, is a world-renowned diving destination, and free diving is becoming increasingly popular locally.

7. Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is one of the most accessible adventure activities to enjoy and an excellent way of discovering what the islands themselves have to offer. Winding country roads will take you through picturesque valleys and along cliffs with stunning views, past prehistoric temples and other places of interest. Mountain biking as a sport in Malta is best done from October to May when the weather is cooler, and the islands are lush. In the hot months of summer, you could always stop for a refreshing swim along the way!

8. Hiking

Hiking gives you access to all those wonderful places where no roads even venture. While several recommended walking trails are laid out to help the visitor make the most of a hiking experience, there is no limit to where and how far you can venture. 

9. Quad-bikes and Segways

Quad-bikes or four-wheelers go hand in hand with the island life. This can be done for sport in Malta, as a way to discover paths off the beaten track or just a means of transport. There are many rental places set up with quads. You can rent one of your own or join an organised tour.

Segways are for those who want some adventure but not too much! Segways are a nifty way to cover a lot of ground with the least effort. Explore the same as you would while cycling but with the comfort and speed of this stand-up two-wheeler. Take one of several fun sightseeing segway tours; you can even pimp it up with other adventure activities, such as horse-riding, archery, go-carting, jet-skiing, anything really!

10. 4×4 Jeep Safari

Grab your team and gear and explore rural Malta and Gozo in a 4×4 Jeep. You have a driver, but you ultimately drive your journey. Explore several kilometres of coast and countryside in comfort and with little effort – save it to enjoy a swim or take a walk in the areas you opt to stop.

Spend your mornings learning English and your afternoons having exciting adventures

If you wish to make the most of your time in Malta, why not take the opportunity to attend English courses while you’re here? Not only will this enhance your language skills, but it can also make your experience of this beautiful island all the more enriching. Write to our team at [email protected] to set up a call in English or your first language.