Discover Samaria, the Longest Gorge in Europe!

Explore the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe, on an unforgettable full-day adventure. Descend through rocky terrain, ancient forests, and crystal-clear rivers, taking in stunning views and encountering diverse wildlife along the way. After your challenging 6-hour trek, relax in the charming village of Agia Roumeli before enjoying a scenic boat ride to Sougia. This guided excursion promises an experience that hiking enthusiasts won’t soon forget. But before you embark on this journey, there are a few important details to consider.

Good To Know

• Samaria Gorge is the longest gorge in Europe, offering a challenging 6-hour guided hike through stunning landscapes, ancient trees, and diverse wildlife.
• The full-day excursion includes convenient pick-up and drop-off locations, an English-speaking guide, and a scenic boat ride along the coast.
• Participants must have a good fitness level and wear proper hiking gear, as the trek involves steep and rocky trails with a 4,000-foot elevation.
• Flexible booking and free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance make planning the Samaria Gorge adventure hassle-free.
• The excursion concludes with a refreshing break in Agia Roumeli, where hikers can swim, dine, and relax before the final transfer back.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Excursion

The Samaria Gorge excursion offers visitors a chance to experience the longest gorge in Europe. This full-day guided tour lasts 8 hours, including 6 hours of challenging hiking through the 4,000-foot-high gorge.

Hikers will be treated to stunning mountain views, ancient trees, crystal-clear rivers, and the chance to spot mountain goats. The trek is considered difficult, requiring 5 to 7 hours of walking.

The breathtaking landscapes and unique geological features make this an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking a thrilling outdoor experience, the Samaria Gorge excursion is a must-do activity on Crete.

Booking and Cancellation Details

Prices for the Samaria Gorge excursion start from €50.00 per person.

The booking process is flexible – customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with no upfront payment required. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund.

Conveniently, the tour offers 23 pickup and drop-off locations across Chania and the surrounding areas, making it accessible to travelers.

With these hassle-free booking options and flexible cancellation policies, arranging the Samaria Gorge hike has never been easier.

Hiking Through Samaria Gorge

Embarking on the guided Samaria Gorge hike, visitors can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey through Europe’s longest gorge. The 6-hour trek descends 4,000 feet, passing ancient trees, crystal rivers, and majestic mountain views. Along the way, hikers may spot mountain goats scaling the cliffs. The path can be strenuous, requiring proper hiking boots and a good level of fitness. To help navigate the trail, the excursion provides an English-speaking guide. Hikers should pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. At the end of the trail, visitors can relax in the coastal town of Agia Roumeli before the boat ride and bus transfer back.

Terrain	Elevation	Duration	Difficulty	Highlights
Steep, rocky trails	4,000 feet above sea level	6 hours of hiking	Challenging	Ancient trees, crystal rivers, mountain goats, majestic views

Agia Roumeli and Boat Ride

After completing the challenging hike through Samaria Gorge, travelers arrive at the charming coastal town of Agia Roumeli.

This idyllic seaside village offers a refreshing respite after the day’s exertions. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local tavernas, or simply relax on the pebbly beach.

Following the free time in Agia Roumeli, travelers board a boat for a scenic ride along the coast to the town of Sougia.

This picturesque boat journey provides stunning views of the rugged Cretan landscape before the final bus transfer back to the starting point, completing the Samaria Gorge excursion.

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Inclusions and Additional Costs

The Samaria Gorge excursion includes several key components.

It covers the hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as an English-speaking guide to lead the way.

The air-conditioned bus transfers, the hiking excursion itself, the entrance fee, and the boat ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sougia are all included in the price.

Breakfast is an optional extra, but food, drinks, sunbeds, and umbrellas aren’t covered.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for everyone – those with mobility issues, claustrophobia, heart problems, or low fitness levels should avoid it.

Proper hiking gear and sun protection are essential.

Suitability and Requirements

While the Samaria Gorge excursion offers a remarkable opportunity to experience one of Europe’s most captivating natural wonders, it’s crucial to ensure it aligns with one’s physical capabilities and needs.

The hike through the gorge is considered challenging and not suitable for:

• Individuals with mobility impairments or claustrophobia
• Those with heart problems or low fitness levels
• Children under 3 feet (90 cm) and babies under 1 year
• Hikers who can’t commit to 5-7 hours of walking
• Visitors seeking an easy, leisurely experience

Proper preparation, including sturdy hiking boots, layers, and ample hydration, is essential for a safe and enjoyable Samaria Gorge adventure.

Packing and Prohibited Items

Preparing for the Samaria Gorge excursion requires thoughtful packing.

It’s essential to bring sturdy hiking boots or comfortable training shoes to navigate the challenging terrain. Hikers should also pack a sun hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight jacket in case the weather changes.

Carrying a refillable water bottle and some snacks is highly recommended to stay hydrated and energized throughout the hike. However, bringing food and drinks in the vehicle is prohibited.

Plus, baby strollers, drones, bikes, alcohol, and fireworks aren’t allowed on the excursion.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Convenient pickup and drop-off locations are available across Chania and the surrounding areas, with a total of 23 options to choose from. This makes it easy for travellers to access the Samaria Gorge excursion, regardless of their starting point.

The pickup and drop-off points include:

• Major hotels and resorts
• Local bus stations
• Central meeting points in Chania
• Stops in nearby towns and villages
• Cruise ship terminals

The confirmation email you receive will provide the specific details for your pickup location, so there’s no need to worry about printing any tickets.

This flexibility ensures a seamless start and end to your Samaria Gorge adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Gorge Independently Without the Guided Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore Samaria Gorge independently without a guided tour. However, it’s recommended to book a transportation service, as the gorge can only be accessed via specific entry and exit points.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Available During the Hike?

There are basic first aid kits and emergency medical services available along the hike, but hikers should ensure they’re in good physical condition before attempting the challenging trail. Medical facilities are limited within the gorge itself.

What Is the Weather Like During the Hiking Season?

The hiking season in Samaria Gorge typically features warm, sunny weather. Daytime temperatures range from 70-90°F (21-32°C), with low humidity. Hikers should prepare for the heat by staying hydrated and wearing lightweight, breathable clothing.

Is There an Option to Shorten the Hike if I Get Tired?

There’s no option to shorten the 6-hour hike through Samaria Gorge. However, hikers can take their time and move at their own pace during the challenging trek. Those who get tired partway can turn back and head out the way they came.

How Early Should I Arrive at the Pickup Location?

To ensure a punctual departure, it’s recommended to arrive at the pickup location at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time. This allows for a smooth check-in process and avoids any delays in starting the excursion.

The Sum Up

The Samaria Gorge trek is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. The journey through Europe’s longest gorge offers stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. Though challenging, the reward of reaching the charming village of Agia Roumeli and enjoying a scenic boat ride makes this full-day adventure an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: