Crete’s Samaria Gorge is a renowned natural wonder that attracts adventurous travelers worldwide. With this private guided trek, you’ll witness the gorge’s breathtaking landscapes and experience the region’s rich cultural heritage in comfort and style. From convenient hotel transfers to a guided hike through the 18-kilometer trail, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable journey amidst Crete’s stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking an active outdoor adventure or simply want to learn about the island’s captivating scenery, this guided trek offers an exceptional opportunity to explore one of Greece’s most captivating natural treasures.
Key Points
- Private guided trek to explore the 18km Samaria Gorge in Crete, priced at $227.68 per person.
- Includes hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off, luxury transportation, liability insurance, and all necessary entrance tickets.
- Itinerary includes a scenic breakfast stop, a 4-hour hike through Samaria Gorge, and 2 hours of free time in Agia Roumeli.
- Not recommended for young children, pregnant women, or individuals with health concerns due to the strenuous nature of the hike.
- Customers praise the professionalism and quality of service from Platanos Tours, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on feedback.
Overview of the Private Guided Trek
The private guided trek to Samaria Gorge offers an immersive and personalized experience for adventurous travelers. Priced at $227.68 per person, this 10-12 hour excursion includes hotel pickup, a luxury Mercedes minivan, and a professional driver.
Hikers will explore the stunning 18km Samaria Gorge, stop for lunch and free time in Agia Roumeli, and take a ferry to Sfakia before returning to their accommodations.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option, this guided trek provides a hassle-free way to discover one of Crete’s natural wonders.
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Detailed Itinerary and Activities
After pickup from hotels or Airbnbs in Rethymno and surrounding areas, the tour begins with a 1.5-hour drive to Omalos.
Here, guests enjoy a 30-minute breakfast and take in the scenic mountain views before starting the hike through Samaria Gorge, which takes approximately 4 hours to complete.
Guests enjoy a 30-minute breakfast while taking in the scenic mountain views before hiking through Samaria Gorge for approximately 4 hours.
The trek covers 18 kilometers through this stunning natural landscape.
Following the hike, the tour visits Agia Roumeli, where guests have 2 hours for lunch, swimming, and free time.
The day concludes with a 1-hour ferry ride from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia and the return transfer to hotels or Airbnbs.
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Pickup from 24 locations in Rethymno and surrounding areas
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4-hour, 18-kilometer hike through Samaria Gorge
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2 hours of free time in Agia Roumeli for lunch and swimming
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1-hour ferry ride from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia
Inclusions and Pricing Information
The private guided trek to Samaria Gorge includes several key inclusions, with pricing starting from $227.68 per person.
This covers hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off, transportation in a luxury Mercedes Vito minivan, a professional driver, and liability insurance.
The entrance ticket to Samaria Gorge (€10) and boat ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia (€14, discounted for children) are also included.
Child seats are available upon request.
The cost covers the guided hiking excursion through the iconic 18-kilometer gorge, as well as free time for lunch, swimming, and exploring the town of Agia Roumeli.
Considerations and Recommendations
Although not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or individuals with health concerns, this private guided trek to Samaria Gorge offers an unforgettable experience for active travelers.
This private guided trek to Samaria Gorge offers an unforgettable experience for active travelers, though not suitable for all.
The recommended items for the trek include:
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Sunglasses and sun hat to protect against the Cretan sun
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Swimwear for taking a dip in the refreshing waters of Agia Roumeli
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Sturdy hiking shoes or trainers for navigating the rugged terrain
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Sunscreen, water, and trekking gear to ensure a comfortable and safe journey
Be sure to notify the tour provider about your pickup details to ensure a seamless start to your adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Testimonials and Reviews
Customers have praised the professionalism and quality of service provided by Platanos Tours on their private guided trek to Samaria Gorge. One reviewer, Eirini from Greece, described the experience as "fantastic" and noted the "professional driver" and "new Mercedes minivan." The company’s service has received a perfect 5/5 rating based on 1 review. The table below highlights key customer feedback on the tour:
| Rating | Location | Date | Comments |
| —— | ——– | —- | ——– |
| 5/5 | Greece | Sep 12, 2024 | Fantastic experience with professional driver and new Mercedes minivan. |
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Crete
- Crete: Private Taxi & Transfer From Heraklion to Rethymno
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Booking and Cancellation Policy
Customers can reserve their spot for the private guided trek to Samaria Gorge with Platanos Tours by selecting the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option.
The tour offers flexible booking and cancellation policies:
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Customers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Platanos Tours requires no upfront payment, allowing customers to pay on the day of the tour.
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Pickup and drop-off service is included, with 24 convenient locations in Rethymno and surrounding areas.
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The tour can be booked and paid for directly through the Platanos Tours website or by contacting their team.
Preparing for Your Samaria Gorge Adventure
With the booking and cancellation policy details covered, it’s time to focus on preparing for the thrilling Samaria Gorge adventure.
Ensure you pack essential items like sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and sturdy hiking shoes. Sunscreen and plenty of water are musts. Trekking poles can also be helpful.
Pack essential items like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and sturdy hiking shoes. Sunscreen and ample water are musts. Trekking poles can also be helpful.
The Samaria Gorge hike is strenuous, so it’s not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with health issues. Notify the tour operator about any special requirements, such as child seats.
Following the packing list and being physically prepared will allow you to fully enjoy this breathtaking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Trek?
This is a private guided trek, so the group size is not specified. The description does not mention a maximum group size, suggesting it can accommodate individual travelers or small groups as requested.
Can I Request a Specific Language for the Guide?
Yes, guests can request a specific language for the guide. The tour operator provides private guided treks and accommodates language preferences, ensuring a personalized experience for each traveler.
Is Any Food/Drinks Included During the Hiking Portion?
The tour doesn’t include any food or drinks during the hiking portion. However, it provides a stop for breakfast and lunch, allowing you to purchase your own refreshments and meals at your own expense.
Can I Store My Luggage With the Tour Company?
The tour company doesn’t provide luggage storage services. Participants are responsible for bringing only the necessary items for the hike, as there’s no place to store extra bags or luggage during the tour.
How Accessible Is the Hiking Trail for Individuals With Limited Mobility?
The hiking trail through Samaria Gorge isn’t very accessible for those with limited mobility. It’s a rugged, 18-kilometer trek that requires sturdy hiking shoes and a good level of physical fitness. The tour isn’t recommended for individuals with health issues.
The Sum Up
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Crete’s Samaria Gorge on this private guided trek. With convenient hotel transfers, a scenic drive, and a 4-hour hike through the stunning 18-kilometer gorge, this full-day adventure offers a memorable journey amidst nature’s wonders. Priced at $227.68 per person, the tour includes professional service and time for lunch and exploration in Agia Roumeli, ensuring a truly remarkable experience.
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