Crete , Greece

Samaria the Lazy Way, from Chania

Active

(6 reviews)

15h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The tour will star with a pick up form your hotel or a nearby point.
After approximately 1,5 hour drive through a beautiful landscape, we reach the picturesque village of Sougia.
From there we will continue our tour with boat following the coastline to the Village of Agia Roumeli ! During your stay in the village you will have plenty of time to cross Samaria Gorge from its exit to the Iron Gates. The distance you can walk is 3 km form the village to the entrance of gorge and 1,5 km further up to the Iron Gates , one of the most interesting points of the gorge!
Late in the afternoon we will take the same boat to get back to the port of Chora Sfakion where our coach will be waiting for us in order to drive back to Chania .

Available options

Samaria the Lazy Way, Chania

Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Sougia is a small seaside village in south Crete, 70 kilometres south of Chania.

Surrounded by the The White Mountains, the village sits at the seaside entrance to the Gorge of Samaria. There are many walking paths on this remote south coast of Crete, with experienced walkers enjoy the small foot paths next to the sea, with breath-taking views of the steep mountains plunging into the crystal blue waters of the Libyan Sea.

Stop 3

he Gorge of Samaria lies on the southern side of Chania prefecture and is a wonderful place for hikers. Visitors from all over the world attempt trekking at this gorge. In 1962, Samaria Gorge had been declared a National Park for the survival of the endangered species kri-kri, the rare Cretan wild goat that lives only in Samaria. Apart from the kri-kri, many other endemic and rare species of flora and fauna live in this gorge.

The unspoilt and historical village of Sfakia is built on the hill slopes, overlooking the natural bay. It is situated around the White Mountains range and the famous Samaria Gorge. Sfakia lies 72 km south east of Chania town.

What's not included

Boat: 18€ / children under 12 year old is 9€

Entrance: 5€ children under 15 year old is free

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The duration of the hike is at least 5 hours and that’s why you must wear proper footwear with socks, a hat, light-colored clothing and sunscreen. You must have a bottle of water with you (there is drinking spring water along the trail), a light snack, if you wish, and of course a walking mood.

Camping is not allowed in the gorge, you can’t spend the night there, light a fire, smoke (you can only do so at the special milestones on the trail), you can’t hunt, set traps, bring guns or animals along, you can’t uproot plants and you are of course not allowed to bathe in the river.

We must keep the lavatories clean for the sake of our own health and we mustn’t throw paper inside the toilets.

You must hold on to the ticket issued at the entrance of the gorge until the end of the hike, in order to go through control at the exit gate.

WE KINDLY ASK ALL VISITORS TO COMPLY WITH THE RULES OF THE STATE PARK IN ORDER TO ENSURE A SAFER HIKE, AS WELL AS TO HELP PRESERVE THE UNIQUELY RICH FLAURA AND FAUNA OF OUR COUNTRY.

Please notice that extra charges may apply per person or in total of the group for pick-ups from hotels- villas- airbnb outside the proximity of our tour selected pick route. In that case we can provide round trip transfer for customer(s) convenience ad-hoc quoted as per location of customer(s)' property.

Important notes

Please contact MTM DMC at least 24 hours before the travel date to provide hotel details and arrange pickup.

Upon your pick up, please present your voucher to our driver for your activity.

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