Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour from Chania with Professional Guide
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Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour from Chania with Professional Guide

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(18 reviews)
14h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Samaria Gorge on this full-day sightseeing adventure tour if you search for a unique hiking experience with a local tour guide. Hiking the 16km-long Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest canyons, is high on the list of must-dos for many visitors to Crete. There’s an undeniable raw beauty to the canyon, with its soaring cliffs and needlenose passageways.
After the long trek enjoy an invigorating dip in the cool waters of Agia Roumeli at the exit of the Gorge.

Available options

Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour from Chania with Professional Guide

Pickup included

What's included

Pick up & drop off service [included in the cost for the listed areas]
Air-conditioned-bus transportation
Escort - mountain leader (English, Greek speaking)

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The gorge of Samaria is counted among the top destinations of the Chania district and a journey to Chania can never be considered complete, unless you visit the gorge.
The gorge’s trail starts at Ksyloskalo (Omalos plateau, 1.227 meters altitude) and after following the river bed, it ends up at the littoral village of Agia Roumeli. The trail of Samaria is the most visited trail in the whole of Greece, it is excellently equipped with signals and signs which eliminate the danger of getting lost, it is comfortable and very well cared for, mostly with stones and soil.

It is not considered a very difficult hike, vivid proof of which is the fact that hundreds of people cross it daily from the opening (in May) till the closing of its visiting season (in October). It is a very pleasant hike, not a strenuous one, with many landscape alternations and a versatile environment.

2

The gorge ends up at the village of Agia Roumeli our escort will have already stipulated a meeting point there, in order for them to give you the tickets to the ferry, which will take you from Agia Roumeli.
You have free time to swim in Agia Roumeli and lunch (optional) in one of the village’s taverns.
Agia Roumeli is a unique place. It has a genuine Cretan heritage and a strong sense of character. It is a peaceful community, nestled between breathtakingly high and wild mountains and a long beach of fine pebble by the deep blue, crystal clear Libyan sea. The village is remote and near enough isolated; you can only reach it on foot or by boat, as there is no road.

3

At 17:30 you go aboard the ferry, Sougia or Sfakia (usually Sougia) being your destination.
When you reach the port, our bus will be waiting to return you to your hotel.
Our bus returns you to the location you have been picked up from.

Sougia Village is one of the most laid back and refreshingly undeveloped beach places along the unique south coast of Crete, southern of Chania, with a lovely wide curve of sand and pebble beach and a few taverns where you can enjoy excellent traditional food as well as fresh fish.
It was the site of the ancient town Syia that flourished during Roman times. Sougia became a village after the second world war and in late years it started to develop into a seaside tourist resort, not only due to its gorgeous beach and natural beauty but also for the peaceful and relaxed atmosphere that Sougia offers to its visitors.

4

Right after that, we return to Chania and to your hotels.

What's not included

Gorge's entrance fee: [10€ per adult for over 13 yo]. Pay on the bus in cash.
Ferry fare: Agia Roumeli - Sougia: adults: 14€, children[ 0 - 12 yo]: 7€. Pay on the bus in cash.
Food & drinks
Pick up & drop off service [there is an additional cost, for areas that are not listed].

Available languages

Guide guide
EL EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3
11 reviews
5★
8
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor 3.0
7 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
2

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children have a regular seat on the bus. [Children: 4 - 12 years old]

Important notes

The duration of the hike is at least 5 hours.

You should have in your tour:

• backpack or shoulder bag
• comfortable and cool clothing
• proper footwear & socks
• hat, sunglasses & suncreen
• swimsuit & beach towel
• bottle of water

Don't hesitate to ask any more questions you may have.
Contact number: +30 2821027497
Email: info@iotours.gr

About Crete

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.

Top Attractions

Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.

Historical 2-3 hours €15 (included in multi-site ticket)

Samaria Gorge

One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Nature 5-7 hours €5 entry fee

Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dakos

A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Moussaka

A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains meat

Rakomelo

A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.

Drink Alcoholic

Popular Activities

Hiking in Samaria Gorge Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon Wine tasting at local wineries Exploring the Palace of Knossos Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon Boat tours around Crete

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Greek
  • Widely spoken: English, German, French
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use licensed taxis
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering services

Getting there

By air
  • Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
  • Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus

Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.

Taxis

Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Heraklion Old Town Chania Old Town

Day trips

Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day

A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.

Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day

A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.

Festivals

Cretan Festival • June to August Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)

Pro tips

  • Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
  • Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
  • Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
  • Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
  • Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 4-12
0
Infants
Age 1-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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