From Agia Galini/Matala: Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour

Exploring the stunning Samaria Gorge is a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts visiting Crete. This challenging yet rewarding hike through Europe’s longest gorge promises breathtaking vistas and an up-close encounter with the region’s diverse wildlife. Starting from the Omalos Plateau, trekkers will descend through the dramatic landscape, culminating in a refreshing dip in the Libyan Sea. Whether you’re based in Agia Galini or Matala, this guided tour offers a seamless way to experience one of Crete’s natural wonders.

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Key Points

Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour offers a full-day adventure through Europe’s longest gorge, starting from the nearby towns of Agia Galini or Matala.
The 18 km hike covers challenging terrain with rugged landscapes, including towering cliffs and stunning coastal views, and requires proper preparation.
Participants will traverse the scenic Samaria National Park, which is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Cretan wild goat.
After the hike, visitors can relax in the fishing village of Agia Roumeli, enjoy a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea, and explore the traditional architecture.
The tour package includes air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, entrance fees, and gratuities, ensuring a convenient and worry-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour is an outdoor adventure that takes participants on a trek through Europe’s longest gorge, located in the southern region of Crete.

The Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour takes adventurers on a trek through Europe’s longest gorge in southern Crete.

The activity is priced from $73.18 per person and lasts around 9 hours. Availability and starting times vary, and the tour is led by live guides in English and German.

The hike covers an 18 km trail through rugged, rocky terrain and steep cliffs, making it unsuitable for those with certain health conditions.

The tour includes transportation, lunch, and all necessary fees.

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Hiking Experience

Trekking through Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe, is a challenging yet rewarding experience.

The trail starts at the Omalos Plateau, 1200 meters above sea level. Hikers will traverse 18 km of rugged, rocky terrain and steep cliffs over 4-6 hours.

The scenic route showcases diverse flora and fauna, including wildflowers and century-old trees.

However, the hike isn’t suitable for those with heart issues, high blood pressure, or pregnancy due to the strenuous nature of the trek.

Proper preparation and caution are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through this natural wonder.

Natural Highlights

Samaria National Park boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna that captivates hikers along the Samaria Gorge trail.

Wildflowers, some centuries-old, dot the landscape, complementing the rugged rock formations. Hikers may spot rare species, like the Cretan wild goat, known as the kri-kri.

Wildflowers, some centuries-old, dot the landscape, complementing the rugged rock formations. Hikers may spot rare species, like the Cretan wild goat, known as the kri-kri.

The gorge also showcases the region’s unique geology, with towering cliffs and stunning views of the southern Cretan coast.

As hikers descend towards the Libyan Sea, they’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the magnificent coastal rocks and crystal-clear waters that characterize this exceptional natural wonder.

Post-Hike Activities

After completing the challenging hike through Samaria Gorge, visitors can look forward to relaxing and rejuvenating in the charming fishing village of Agia Roumeli.

Here, they can:

Swim and cool off in the refreshing waters of the Libyan Sea
Unwind and savor a well-deserved meal at one of the local tavernas
Set out on a one-hour boat tour to Chora Sfakion, marveling at the magnificent coastal rocks along the way
Explore the quaint streets and traditional architecture of Agia Roumeli
Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty of this picturesque seaside community.

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Included Amenities

The Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour includes several amenities to enhance the overall experience. Customers can enjoy air-conditioned transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a delicious lunch. Entrance fees of €25.00 are also covered. The tour operator takes care of gratuities, ensuring a seamless and worry-free adventure.

| Amenity | Inclusion |

|———|———–|

| Transportation | Air-conditioned |

| Pickup/Drop-off | Hotel |

| Meal | Lunch |

| Fees | Entrance (€25.00) |

| Gratuities | Included |

Based on 18 reviews, customers have generally praised these inclusions, with an overall rating of 4.6/5.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have generally left positive remarks about the Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 18 reviews.

According to customer reviews, the Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour received an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 18 positive remarks.

Common feedback highlights:

Praise for the tour guide’s clarity and expertise
Appreciation for the hike’s breathtaking scenery and diverse natural features
Complaints about the lengthy transfer duration during the return journey
Some organizational issues experienced during the post-hike boat ride
Mixed opinions on the overall efficiency of the tour’s logistics and scheduling.

While the majority of customers enjoyed the hiking experience, a few logistical concerns were noted that the tour operator may wish to address.

Getting to the Starting Point

To reach the starting point of the Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour, participants are typically transported from their pickup locations in Agia Galini or Matala.

The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours as the tour covers the distance to the Omalos Plateau at an elevation of 1,200 meters. During the drive, travelers can enjoy scenic views of the island’s interior landscape.

Upon arrival at the trailhead, hikers receive a safety briefing and have time to prepare for the challenging 18-kilometer descent through the renowned gorge.

Preparing for the Hike

Before embarking on the Samaria Gorge hike, hikers must ensure they’re properly prepared. Key considerations include:

Wearing sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good traction
Packing plenty of water and high-energy snacks
Dressing in lightweight, breathable layers
Bringing sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Carrying basic first-aid supplies in case of minor injuries

The hike traverses rugged, rocky terrain with steep cliffs, so having the right gear and being physically fit are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Since You Asked

Is Water Provided During the Hike?

Water is not explicitly mentioned as being provided during the hike. However, the tour includes lunch, suggesting participants should bring their own water or hydration supplies to stay hydrated on the 4-6 hour trek through the rugged Samaria Gorge.

Can We Bring Our Own Hiking Poles?

Yes, hikers are welcome to bring their own hiking poles for the Samaria Gorge trek. The trek covers rugged, rocky terrain, so hiking poles can provide extra stability and support during the challenging 4-6 hour hike.

What Is the Weather Typically Like During the Hike?

The weather during the Samaria Gorge hike is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F. Hikers should be prepared for some wind and cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Bringing layers and sun protection is recommended.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Footwear?

Sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots or shoes are recommended for the Samaria Gorge hike. The terrain is rocky and uneven, so proper footwear is essential for comfort and safety throughout the challenging 4-6 hour trek.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Requirements?

The hike through Samaria Gorge is not suitable for young children or individuals with heart issues, high blood pressure, or pregnancy due to the strenuous nature of the terrain. Participants should be in good physical condition to safely complete the 4-6 hour trek.

Final Words

The Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour from Agia Galini or Matala offers an unforgettable adventure through one of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders. Hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea after the challenging trek. With knowledgeable guides, comprehensive amenities, and convenient transportation, this tour provides an exceptional experience for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here: