From Chania: Samaria Gorge With Professional Hiking Guide

Explore the magnificent Samaria Gorge with a guided tour from Chania. This 14-hour adventure promises breathtaking scenery, a challenging 6-hour hike, and a relaxing boat ride. Priced at $32.77 per person, it’s an opportunity to discover Crete’s natural beauty. Experienced guides lead the way, ensuring a safe and memorable journey. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking an outdoor adventure, this tour offers a chance to learn about the stunning Samarian landscape.

Key Points

• A 14-hour guided tour from Chania to explore the renowned Samaria Gorge, Europe’s second-largest, with a 6-hour hike and a boat ride to Sougia.
• Guided hike through the dramatic landscape of towering limestone cliffs, the iconic Iron Gates, and potential sightings of the endangered Cretan Goat.
• Pickup from various locations in Chania, transportation in a luxury bus, and an opportunity to swim at Agia Roumeli beach after the hike.
• Tour priced at $32.77 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required for booking.
• Physical ability required, with recommended preparations including sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and ample water/snacks, as well as adherence to safety guidelines.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Samaria Gorge hike is a popular activity in Crete, offering visitors the chance to explore Europe’s second-largest gorge.

Explore Europe’s second-largest gorge on the popular Samaria Gorge hike in Crete.

Priced from $32.77 per person, the 14-hour tour includes pickup, transportation, professional guiding, and a boat ride.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later, reserving their spot without upfront payment.

The hike through the scenic gorge takes approximately 6 hours, showcasing 600 wooden steps and the famous Iron Gates.

After hiking, the tour provides 2.5 hours to relax and swim at Agia Roumeli beach.

Itinerary and Locations

The tour begins with pickup from 39 locations, including hotels and cafes in Chania.

Guests then board a luxury bus for a 1.5-hour drive to the Omalos Plateau.

From there, the 6-hour hike through Samaria Gorge commences, featuring 600 wooden steps and the famous Iron Gates.

After the challenging trek, hikers enjoy 2.5 hours of relaxation at the beach in Agia Roumeli, with an opportunity to swim in the cool waters.

The journey concludes with a boat ride to Sougia and a bus transfer back to the starting point.

Hiking the Samaria Gorge

Spanning a distance of 16 kilometers, the Samaria Gorge hike is widely regarded as one of the most captivating and challenging trekking experiences in Europe.

The descent traverses a narrow, winding trail lined with towering limestone cliffs and ancient Byzantine ruins. Hikers will encounter several highlights along the way:

A narrow, winding trail lined with towering limestone cliffs and ancient Byzantine ruins leads hikers to several highlights.

1. The iconic Iron Gates, a dramatic passage just 4 meters wide with sheer 300-meter walls on either side.

2. Opportunities to spot the endangered Cretan wild goat, the "Kri-Kri", in its natural habitat.

3. Panoramic vistas overlooking the Libyan Sea from the gorge’s southern exit at Agia Roumeli.

Scenic Views and Experiences

As hikers embark on their journey through the Samaria Gorge, they’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of Crete’s natural splendor.

From the scenic Omalos Plateau, they’ll descend into a dramatic landscape flanked by towering cliffs.

The trek features 600 wooden steps and the famous Iron Gates, a narrow passage between sheer rock walls.

Along the way, hikers might catch a glimpse of the endangered Cretan Goat, known as the "Kri-Kri".

After hiking, they’ll enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters of Agia Roumeli beach before a boat ride to the charming village of Sougia.

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Lunch and Swimming at Agia Roumeli

After the challenging hike through the Samaria Gorge, hikers can look forward to a well-deserved break at Agia Roumeli beach.

This 2.5-hour stopover allows for:

1. Enjoying a leisurely lunch at one of the beachside restaurants.

2. Taking a refreshing swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters.

3. Exploring the quaint seaside village and its tranquil atmosphere.

With the difficult portion of the journey behind them, hikers can soak in the stunning scenery and recharge before the return journey back to Chania.

Return Journey by Boat and Bus

After their relaxing time at Agia Roumeli beach, hikers now embark on the return journey home.

Hikers now begin their return journey home after a relaxing time at Agia Roumeli beach.

They board a boat that takes them to the village of Sougia. From there, a luxury bus transports them back to their original pickup locations in Chania, a 1.5-hour ride.

This efficient return route allows hikers to avoid the long trek back through the gorge. The boat ride offers scenic coastal views, while the bus provides a comfortable ride.

With this seamless transportation, hikers can fully enjoy their Samaria Gorge experience without worrying about the logistics of the return trip.

Important Considerations and Requirements

One key consideration for the Samaria Gorge hike is the physical ability required. The hike isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, altitude sickness, or those over 80/95 years.

Hikers are advised to come prepared with:

1. Sturdy hiking shoes

2. Sun protection like sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen

3. Ample water and snacks

Prohibited activities in the gorge include using radios, making excessive noise, littering, smoking outside rest points, and consuming alcohol.

Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

According to the information provided, the Samaria Gorge hike has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 105 reviews.

Customers have praised the organization and expertise of the guides leading the hike. However, some feedback mentions the long bus rides due to the multiple pickup and drop-off locations.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Hike the Samaria Gorge?

The best time to hike the Samaria Gorge is between May and October when the weather’s mild and the gorge’s stream is low. Hikers should avoid the peak summer months when it’s hottest and crowds are largest.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Water on the Hike?

Hikers can bring their own food and water on the Samaria Gorge hike. However, it’s recommended to purchase provisions at the starting point as there are limited facilities within the gorge itself. Proper hydration and sustenance are crucial for the 6-hour trek.

Is There Any Difficulty in Reaching the Starting Point of the Hike?

The hike starts from the Omalos Plateau, which is about a 1.5-hour bus ride from the pickup locations. The bus transfer handles the logistics of reaching the trailhead, so there’s no difficulty in getting to the starting point.

Are There Any Opportunities to See Wildlife During the Hike?

The hike offers the chance to spot the endangered Cretan Goat "Kri-Kri" in its natural habitat within the Samaria Gorge. Hikers may catch glimpses of this unique wildlife during the 6-hour trek through the scenic landscape.

How Physically Demanding Is the Hike Through the Samaria Gorge?

The hike through Samaria Gorge is physically demanding, requiring 6 hours of strenuous walking over rocky and uneven terrain with 600 wooden steps. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or health problems.

Sum Up

The "From Chania: Samaria Gorge With Professional Hiking Guide" tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. At $32.77 per person, it offers transportation, a guided 6-hour hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge, and a relaxing boat ride. Customers can marvel at breathtaking views, navigate the iconic Iron Gates, and enjoy leisure time at Agia Roumeli beach, making it an ideal way to explore Crete’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: