From Heraklion: Samaria Gorge & Agia Roumeli Hiking Day Trip

Embark on an adventure through the stunning Samaria Gorge with this comprehensive day trip from Heraklion. You’ll hike 4.5 hours through breathtaking landscapes, then explore the picturesque village of Agia Roumeli, relax on the beach, and savor traditional Cretan cuisine. Priced at $54.40 per person, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable experience. But what makes this hiking tour truly unique? Let’s dive in and find out.

Key Points

• A 15.5 to 17.5-hour day trip from Heraklion to explore the Samaria Gorge and the seaside village of Agia Roumeli, priced from $54.40 per person.
• Includes a 4.5-hour guided hike through Europe’s longest gorge, featuring breathtaking scenery and opportunities to spot Cretan wild goats.
• Visit Agia Roumeli for swimming in the Libyan Sea and enjoying traditional Cretan cuisine at local restaurants.
• Comprehensive package with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, professional driver, tour guide, and various inclusions.
• Not recommended for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems, and requires suitable hiking gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This Samaria Gorge hiking day trip from Heraklion offers an exhilarating experience for adventurous travelers.

Priced from $54.40 per person, the trip lasts 15.5 to 17.5 hours. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the reserve now & pay later option.

Priced from $54.40 per person, the 15.5 to 17.5 hour trip offers free cancellation and reserve now & pay later options.

Pickup is available from 12 convenient locations around Heraklion. The expedition includes a scenic bus ride to the trailhead, a guided 4.5-hour hike through Europe’s longest gorge, and a return ferry and bus ride.

Suitable for fit individuals, this immersive adventure showcases Crete’s stunning natural beauty.

Itinerary and Highlights

The Samaria Gorge hiking day trip from Heraklion starts with pickups from 12 convenient locations around the city, including Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Agia Pelagia, and Heraklion itself.

From there, it’s a scenic 100-minute bus drive to Rethymno and Chania.

Next, the tour provides a guided 4.5-hour hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest.

After the hike, it’s time to visit Agia Roumeli for swimming and lunch.

The return journey includes a 1-hour ferry ride to Chora Sfakion and a 2-hour bus ride back to the starting points.

Hiking Through Samaria Gorge

Hikers on the Samaria Gorge day trip from Heraklion will embark on a challenging, 4.5-hour guided trek through Europe’s longest gorge.

They’ll traverse a rugged, rocky trail, passing by towering, white limestone cliffs that rise up on either side. Along the way, they may spot Cretan wild goats known as Kri-Kri.

The hike requires a moderate fitness level, as the terrain can be steep and strenuous at times.

But the payoff is breathtaking scenery – lush, verdant landscapes, and the serene Agia Roumeli village at the end of the gorge.

Exploring Agia Roumeli

After completing the challenging hike through Samaria Gorge, hikers arrive at the picturesque village of Agia Roumeli. This coastal town provides a welcome respite, allowing visitors to rest, swim, and enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

| Activity | Description |

|———–|————-|

| Swimming | Cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea. |

| Lunch | Savor traditional Cretan cuisine at local restaurants. |

| Exploration | Wander the charming streets and soak in the serene atmosphere. |

After the break, hikers board a ferry for the final leg of the journey, heading back to Chora Sfakion and then by bus to their starting point.

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Return Journey

Once the hikers have had their fill of rest and refreshment in Agia Roumeli, they board a ferry for the 1-hour ride across the Libyan Sea to Chora Sfakion.

This scenic journey provides a chance to soak in the coastal views before the final leg of the trip.

Upon reaching Chora Sfakion, the group boards a bus for the 2-hour return drive to Heraklion.

The key steps in the return journey are:

1. Ferry to Chora Sfakion

2. Bus transfer to Heraklion

3. Approximate duration: 3 hours

4. Arrive back at original pickup locations

Experience and Reviews

The Samaria Gorge hike offers a chance to experience Europe’s longest gorge, providing hikers with breathtaking views of the White Mountains.

Travelers frequently highlight the stunning scenery, from the lush foliage to the rugged cliffs. Cretan wild goats, known as Kri-Kri, are often spotted along the way, adding to the unique wildlife encounter.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and helpful guides, who ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through the challenging terrain.

However, the hike is physically demanding and may not be suitable for those with health issues or young children.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Samaria Gorge hiking day trip from Heraklion includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The Samaria Gorge hiking day trip from Heraklion includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

This comprehensive package includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off

2. Air-conditioned bus transportation

3. Professional driver and tour guide

4. Liability travel insurance, entrance fee, lunch/snacks, and boat ticket

However, the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.

Participants should come prepared with appropriate hiking gear, such as sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a swimsuit for the beach visit.

This physically demanding excursion is best suited for fit individuals.

Recommendations and Important Information

To ensure a safe and enjoyable Samaria Gorge hiking experience, travelers should come prepared with the right gear and mindset. The hike is physically demanding, so proper hiking shoes, sun protection, and hydration are a must.

A swimsuit and towel are recommended for the swim stop. Travelers with health concerns like back or heart problems should avoid this trip.

Bringing snacks and cash for lunch is advised. Given the scenic beauty and wildlife encounters, having a camera handy is highly recommended.

Following the guide’s instructions is crucial for navigating this challenging but rewarding trek through Europe’s longest gorge.

Since You Asked

How Difficult Is the Samaria Gorge Hike?

The Samaria Gorge hike is physically demanding, suitable only for fit individuals. It involves a 4.5-hour, 10-mile trek through Europe’s longest gorge, with challenging terrain and steep descents. It’s not recommended for those with health issues or limited mobility.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Trip?

No, pets are not allowed on the Samaria Gorge hiking trip. The tour operator does not permit animals due to the challenging nature of the hike and for the safety and comfort of all participants.

Is There an Option to Extend My Stay in Agia Roumeli?

Unfortunately, the day trip does not offer an option to extend the stay in Agia Roumeli. The itinerary includes a 1-hour return ferry ride after the hike, followed by a 2-hour bus transfer back to the starting point.

What Happens if I Cannot Complete the Hike?

If you can’t complete the hike, you’ll be able to take the ferry back from Agia Roumeli. The tour provider will assist you and ensure your safe return. However, continuing the hike is not recommended for those with health issues.

Can I Book This Trip for a Group of 10 or More?

Yes, you can book this trip for a group of 10 or more. The tour operator offers group discounts and can accommodate larger groups. Just let them know the number of people in your party when making the reservation.

Final Words

The "From Heraklion: Samaria Gorge & Agia Roumeli Hiking Day Trip" offers an unforgettable adventure. At $54.40 per person, it includes a guided hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge and time to relax in the picturesque village of Agia Roumeli. With a scenic bus ride and ferry ride, this full-day excursion provides an immersive experience in Crete’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: