Tucked away in the heart of Crete, the Samaria Gorge beckons adventurers from around the globe. This full-day trek from Heraklion promises an unforgettable journey through Europe’s longest gorge, offering breathtaking vistas and a chance to take in Crete’s rugged natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a new challenge, this excursion invites you to discover a side of Crete that few ever get to experience.
Key Points
- Full-day adventure exploring the Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest gorge, with a hike duration of 5-6 hours covering 18 km.
- Pickup and drop-off service available from various locations in Heraklion, including hotels and bus stops.
- Includes entrance fee, ferry ticket, air-conditioned bus transportation, and a local guide, with a light snack provided.
- Relaxation in the coastal village of Agia Roumeli with swimming and local cuisine before a short cruise to Chora Sfakion.
- Overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on positive feedback on the breathtaking landscapes and knowledgeable guides.
Overview and Pricing
The Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion is a full-day adventure that allows visitors to explore Europe’s longest gorge.
Priced from $54.39 per person, this 12-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking with no upfront payment required.
Covering a distance of 18 km, the hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge takes 5-6 hours and showcases the impressive Iron Gates, rock walls rising 350 m high.
After the trek, travelers can relax in Agia Roumeli, swim at the beach, and enjoy local cuisine before a short cruise to Chora Sfakion.
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Itinerary and Highlights
Hike for 5-6 hours along the Samaria Gorge trail, Europe’s longest gorge (18 km).
View the dramatic Iron Gates, where towering rock walls rise 350 m high.
Relax in the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, swim at the beach, and enjoy local cuisine.
The excursion offers scenic views, wildlife viewing, and photo stops throughout the day.
After the hike, take a short cruise to Chora Sfakion to complete the adventure.
The highlights of the trek include:
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Witnessing the breathtaking Iron Gates
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Relaxing and swimming in Agia Roumeli
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Enjoying the local cuisine
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Scenic views and photo opportunities
Pickup and Drop-off Information
Pickup is available from 76 locations, including hotels and bus stops in Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, and Heraklion.
The exact pickup point and time will be provided within 24 hours after booking. Guests will be dropped off at the same locations after the excursion.
The tour includes air-conditioned bus transportation from the pickup point to the Samaria Gorge trailhead and back to the drop-off location.
Detailed information on pickup and drop-off logistics will be communicated to each guest to ensure a seamless start and end to the full-day Samaria Gorge trekking experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Samaria Gorge trek excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned bus transportation, a local guide, a light snack (croissant, water, juice), and the entrance fee to the gorge (€5; free for children under 15) as well as the ferry ticket (€13; €7 for children under 12).
The Samaria Gorge trek excursion includes transportation, a guide, a light snack, and entrance fees for adults and children.
However, it excludes:
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Food and drinks
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Pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, heart problems, recent surgeries, and those over 95 years
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Baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, baby carriages, and bare feet
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Anything not explicitly listed as included.
Suitability and Restrictions
Although the Samaria Gorge trek excursion offers breathtaking landscapes, it may not be suitable for everyone.
The hike isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, recent surgeries, or individuals over 95 years old. Participants must be able to walk for 5-6 hours along the 18 km trail.
Certain items are also prohibited, including baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, and bare feet. Customers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and bring a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear.
The excursion isn’t appropriate for those who can’t meet these physical and safety requirements.
What to Bring and Not Allowed
Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and biodegradable sunscreen to the Samaria Gorge trek excursion.
The following items aren’t allowed:
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Baby strollers
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Alcohol
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Drugs
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Bare feet
These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
These restrictions ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during the Samaria Gorge trek excursion.
Adherence to these guidelines will help create a positive and memorable experience during the Samaria Gorge trek.
Guests are expected to follow these rules to maintain the integrity of the excursion.
Customer Feedback and Rating
Based on 4 reviews, the Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion has an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.
Customers have praised the breathtaking landscapes and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer described the trek as a "must-do" experience, highlighting the stunning views and well-organized tour.
Another guest noted the guide’s expertise in sharing the history and ecology of the gorge. Reviewers also appreciated the convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service.
While the excursion may not be suitable for everyone, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an adventurous outdoor experience in Crete.
Getting to the Samaria Gorge
To reach the Samaria Gorge, the excursion provides convenient pickup service from numerous locations across Crete.
Travelers can be picked up from:
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Hotels and bus stops in Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, and Heraklion.
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The pickup point and time are provided within 24 hours after booking.
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After the excursion, travelers are dropped off at the same locations.
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The air-conditioned bus transportation ensures a comfortable journey to and from the gorge.
Since You Asked
Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Samaria Gorge trek. The excursion explicitly states that baby carriages, strollers, and bare feet are also prohibited for safety and environmental reasons. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, there are group discounts available for the Samaria Gorge trek. According to the information provided, the price starts from $54.39 per person, but group sizes and discounts aren’t explicitly stated. It’s best to inquire about group pricing when booking.
What if I Have a Pre-Existing Medical Condition?
Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions may not be suitable for the trek. The excursion explicitly states it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues, heart problems, or recent surgeries. It’s best to consult a doctor before booking.
Can I Stop for Lunch During the Hike?
The trek includes a stop in Agia Roumeli, where hikers can enjoy local cuisine and relax on the beach. However, it’s recommended to bring snacks and water to fuel the hike, as there are no meal stops during the trek.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Excursion?
The excursion has no minimum age requirement, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, heart problems, recent surgeries, or those over 95 years. Children under 15 get free entrance to the gorge.
Final Words
The Samaria Gorge Trek from Heraklion offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. The 12-hour tour includes a 5-6 hour hike through Europe’s longest gorge, showcasing stunning views. Guests can relax and swim in Agia Roumeli before a scenic cruise. With convenient transportation, this excursion is a must-do for those seeking an adventurous day in the great outdoors.
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