Agia Roumeli is a natural hub for excursions that showcase Crete’s rugged beauty and authentic charm. Surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, this little coastal village offers more than just a scenic backdrop — it’s the starting point for some of the island’s most memorable adventures. Whether you’re after a challenging hike through Europe’s longest gorge or a relaxing boat ride, Agia Roumeli delivers. Personally, I love the idea of conquering the Samaria Gorge, as it combines spectacular scenery with the thrill of a mountain trek, and finishing with a swim in the Libyan Sea feels like a reward.
For travelers seeking an authentic outdoor experience, the tours listed below provide a perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. From guided excursions led by locals to more relaxed boat trips, there’s something for every level of hiker and explorer.
Quick Overview
Our list covers guided hikes through Samaria Gorge, led by knowledgeable locals or professional guides, offering tailored experiences for all fitness levels. There are full-day trips including boat rides, swimming, and in some cases, hotel transfers for added comfort. For those who prefer a less strenuous day, options like the From Chania: Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour Easy Way combine scenic walks with relaxing boat trips. For a deeper dive into Crete’s wild side, tours like Samaria Gorge: Into Crete’s Wild Heart & Hidden Agia Roumeli offer private, full-day adventures. Read on for detailed reviews of each.
1. Samaria, the longest gorge in Europe!
This classic adventure takes you through Europe’s longest canyon, with picks from 23 different drop-off points and a full day of hiking and exploring. The tour features an 8-hour trek led by local guides who know the terrain inside out, supporting local businesses along the way. It starts with a local café breakfast before the 6-hour hike through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, ending in the charming seaside town of Agia Roumeli. After some free time to swim and relax, you’ll take a water taxi back across the sea — a true highlight.
What makes this tour appealing is its flexible pickup options and the emphasis on supporting local Crete companies. While reviews are modest — a 4.3/5 based on 3 reviews — travelers praise its unforgettable scenery and friendly guides. It’s suitable for those who want an immersive, full-day adventure with plenty of nature and a sense of accomplishment.
Bottom line: If you’re after a comprehensive, budget-friendly trek with local flair, this tour hits the mark.
2. Agioi Apostoloi: Samaria with professional hiking guide!!
Offering a 10-hour full-day experience, this tour includes hotel transfers in air-conditioned comfort, making the journey hassle-free. Starting from two convenient pickup points, you’ll enjoy a breakfast in Omalos before tackling the long trek through Samaria Gorge. The trek itself is challenging but rewarding, with spectacular views and the opportunity to cool off with a swim in Agia Roumeli. The tour continues with swimming at Sougia, providing a perfect rest from the hiking.
This experience shines thanks to its expert local guide, who enhances your understanding of the area’s natural and cultural features. The inclusion of hotel transfers and a ferry ride makes it a seamless daytrip. As it’s operated by a company with over 10 years’ experience, reliability is high, and reviews underscore its value and well-organized nature.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers wanting a guided, all-inclusive day with plenty of scenic highlights.
3. From Chania: Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour Easy Way
For around 15 hours, this tour offers a gentler approach to exploring Samaria Gorge, perfect for those who want to enjoy the scenery without the full exertion. It features a boat trip from Sougia to Agia Roumeli, giving you a break from hiking and a chance to enjoy the sea views. The trek through the gorge is combined with plenty of photo stops and free time for swimming.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of hiking and relaxing boat rides, making it suitable for families or less experienced hikers. The delicious lunch and opportunity to swim in the crystal waters are added bonuses. The itinerary is well-paced, and reviewers praise its smooth logistics and engaging guides.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, without the long, intense hike.
4. Kalives: Discover Samaria, the longest gorge in Europe!
This full-day tour from Kalives emphasizes local expertise and relaxed pacing. After a 2-hour bus ride, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Samaria Gorge, walking for about 5 hours with ample free time to explore and take photos. The day includes a break in Agia Roumeli for lunch and swimming, followed by the return trip.
A key feature is the hotel transfer in air-conditioned comfort, making the day less taxing. The tour supports a local travel agency with over ten years’ experience, and reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and well-organized schedule. It provides a great balance between activity and leisure, perfect for travelers who want to experience the gorge without rushing.
Bottom line: Best for travelers based in Kalives seeking a full but manageable day of adventure.
5. Platanias: Discover Samaria with professional hiking guide!
This 10-hour guided tour from Platanias offers a detailed exploration of the gorge, starting with hotel transfers and a breakfast in Omalos. The trek includes hiking through the Samaria Gorge and swimming in Agia Roumeli, with a scenic ferry ride across the sea. The tour concludes with returning to Platanias via bus.
What stands out is its comprehensive itinerary, including hotel transfers and a guided hike led by locals with over a decade of experience. The tour provides a good value for those staying in Platanias, with the ability to see the gorge’s highlights while enjoying the comforts of air-conditioned transport.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers staying in Platanias who want a guided, full-day adventure with seamless logistics.
6. Samaria Gorge: Into Crete’s Wild Heart & Hidden Agia Roumeli
This private full-day journey takes you through all 16 km of Samaria Gorge, with a focus on the raw natural beauty and untouched landscapes. Departing from Chania, you’ll hike scenic trails, stopping for photos and swimming in the Libyan Sea after reaching Agia Roumeli. The trip includes ferry rides and mountain-to-sea scenery, making it one of the most immersive options.
The tour provides a personalized experience, perfect for those who want to go deeper into Crete’s rugged terrain with a private guide. While the price isn’t specified, the detailed itinerary suggests excellent value for travelers seeking exclusivity and a comprehensive exploration.
Bottom line: Ideal for independent travelers or groups wanting a full, exclusive experience into Crete’s wild side.
7. Stavros: Discover Samaria, with local hiking escort!
This 10-hour tour from Stavros features a transfer to Omalos and a guided hike lasting about 6 hours. After the trek, there’s time for swimming in Agia Roumeli, then a transfer back, making it suitable for those wanting a more relaxed pace with expert guidance. The tour includes hotel transfers and local guides with extensive experience.
While reviews are not included, the structured itinerary and focus on local guiding expertise make this a solid option for those based in Stavros or nearby, seeking a guided, less rushed experience.
Bottom line: Good for travelers wanting a guided trek with transfer logistics handled smoothly.
8. Halepa: Discover Samaria, the longest gorge in Europe!
This full-day tour from Halepa includes hotel transfers, a breakfast in Omalos, and a hike through Samaria Gorge. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a swim in Agia Roumeli and proceed via transfer and ferry back. The itinerary emphasizes supporting local companies and experiencing the gorge with knowledgeable guides.
While reviews are not specified, the balanced schedule and inclusive nature make this suitable for travelers in Halepa wanting a comprehensive, guided experience. The focus on local support and scenic highlights ensures a meaningful trip.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers based in Halepa seeking a full guided day with transportation included.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best Agia Roumeli experience depends on your budget, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you crave a full-day serious hike, the Samaria, the longest gorge in Europe tour offers a classic, immersive experience. For a less intense, guided day, Agioi Apostoloi provides comfort and expert guiding.
Those staying in Chania or Platanias will appreciate the well-organized from Chania or Platanias tours, which combine ease with scenic highlights. For travelers wanting a private or exclusive experience, the Into Crete’s Wild Heart tour offers a personalized approach.
Practical tips: book early in peak season (spring and fall) to secure your spot. Consider your fitness level — some tours are more demanding — and whether you prefer guided logistics or independent exploration.
Final Thoughts
Agia Roumeli serves as a perfect gateway to Crete’s natural wonders, with tours that suit casual walkers to seasoned hikers. The variety—from full-day guided hikes supported by local experts to relaxing boat trips—means you can tailor your experience to your interests and energy level.
If you’re after a comprehensive, guided adventure and don’t mind an early start, the Samaria Gorge tour is hard to beat. For a more relaxed day with scenic boat rides, the easy way from Chania offers excellent value. Whichever you choose, booking early and preparing for some walking will make your journey into Crete’s rugged heart all the more rewarding.