From Chania: Samariá Gorge Guided Hike

Embarking on a guided hike through the Samariá Gorge in Crete is an unforgettable adventure. Departing from Chania, this full-day excursion offers stunning landscapes and the chance to spot the endangered Cretan kri-kri goat. Spanning approximately 16 km and lasting 6-7 hours, the hike is led by knowledgeable experts who provide transportation and essential breaks. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, hikers can enjoy an exhilarating experience that culminates in a refreshing swim. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience, this guided hike promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

Guided hike in Samaria Gorge, Crete, lasting 6-7 hours and covering approximately 16 km, with transportation provided from Chania.
Hike includes opportunities to encounter the endangered Cretan kri-kri goat and swim at the trail’s end.
Tour package includes pickup, drop-off, an experienced hiking escort, and air-conditioned luxury bus transportation.
Entrance fee and boat ticket to return from Agia Roumeli are not included in the price of €24.40 per person.
The hike is not suitable for children under 6, wheelchair users, or pregnant women due to physical challenges and environmental conditions.

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Activity Overview

The guided hike in Samariá Gorge, located in Crete, Greece, is a popular outdoor adventure that allows visitors to explore the second-largest gorge in Europe.

Priced from £24.40 per person, the full-day experience covers approximately 16 km over 6-7 hours. Hikers can encounter the endangered Cretan kri-kri goat and enjoy a swim in the sea at the end of the trail, followed by lunch in Agia Roumeli.

The hike departs from various pickup locations in the Chania and Rethymno regions, with transportation provided by an air-conditioned luxury bus.

Itinerary Details

Pickup locations for the guided hike include Agia Marina, Gerani, Maleme, Kolymvari, Daratsos, Tavronitis, Stalos, and Platanias.

From these locations, visitors will travel by air-conditioned luxury bus for approximately 1.5 hours to reach the starting point at Omalos.

The hike itself takes around 6-7 hours, covering a distance of 16 km.

After completing the hike, the bus will transport participants back to Agia Roumeli, which takes about 2 hours.

Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to take breaks, stop for photos, enjoy a lunch, and even go for a swim in the sea.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The guided hike package includes pickup and drop-off from the designated locations, as well as an experienced hiking escort to guide participants through the Samaria Gorge.

The package also includes air-conditioned luxury bus transportation. However, the entrance fee and boat ticket aren’t included in the price.

The hike isn’t suitable for:

Children under 6
Wheelchair users
Individuals with heart problems
Pregnant women

Full liability insurance is provided, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Important Information

Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for a full refund, providing flexibility for participants.

Hikers should bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, proper footwear, water, and sunscreen. While water refill stations dot the trail, there are no storage facilities on the bus during the hike.

Toilet facilities along the route are basic. A boat transfer is required to return to the bus, costing €13 per person.

Customers have reported that the dining experience at the Samaria restaurant fell short of expectations.

Activity Suitability

This guided hike may not be suitable for all participants. The activity has several restrictions that potential hikers should consider:

Children under 6 aren’t permitted
Wheelchair users can’t be accommodated
Individuals with heart problems, high blood pressure, or diabetes are advised against joining
Pregnant women are also excluded from this excursion

The demands of the 16 km hike through the Samaria Gorge, which can take 6-7 hours to complete, make this activity unsuitable for certain groups.

Hikers must be prepared for the physical challenges and environmental conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Pricing and Duration

Typically, the guided hike in Samaria Gorge from Chania or Rethymno costs from £24.40 per person.

The experience lasts one day, with the hike spanning around 16 km and taking approximately 6-7 hours to complete.

Samaria Gorge is the second-largest gorge in Europe, offering a chance to encounter the endangered Cretan kri-kri goat.

After the hike, visitors can enjoy a swim in the sea and a lunch in Agia Roumeli before the 2-hour bus journey back to the pickup location.

The price includes pickup/drop-off, a hiking escort, an air-conditioned luxury bus, and full liability insurance, though the entrance fee and boat ticket are excluded.

Customer Reviews

According to the customer reviews, the overall rating for the guided hike in Samaria Gorge is 4 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.

The feedback suggests a mixed experience:

Positive reviews praised the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides.
Some customers found the hike more challenging than expected, particularly the steep descents.
A few reviews mentioned poor organization, with late bus arrivals and insufficient guidance at certain points.
Concerns were also raised about the overpriced and underwhelming lunch option at the Samaria restaurant.

Additional Tips

Travelers may want to consider bringing their own breakfast options, as the offerings at the pickup locations can be expensive.

Plus, there’s no storage space on the bus during the hike, so hikers should plan accordingly.

Fortunately, there are water filling stations along the Samaria Gorge trail, allowing hikers to refill their bottles.

However, the toilet facilities are quite basic, consisting of simple porcelain holes in the ground.

Finally, the boat transfer required to return to the bus costs €13 per person, which is an additional expense to consider.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The activity overview does not mention any discounts for group bookings. Customers should contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any available group discounts or special pricing for larger parties.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Hike?

Yes, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the hike. This can help reduce costs, as the report indicates breakfast options may be expensive. However, there’s no storage on the bus during the hike.

Is the Hike Suitable for First-Time Hikers?

The hike is suitable for first-time hikers, but they should be prepared. The 16km trail is moderate, taking 6-7 hours. Proper footwear, water, and stamina are needed. Beginners may find the distance and terrain challenging.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Hike?

The hike’s duration can’t be easily extended. The tour operator provides a pre-set itinerary and schedule. Extending the hike would require special arrangements and additional fees. Participants should expect to complete the 16km hike in the allotted 6-7 hours.

Are There Any Alternative Route Options for the Hike?

While the standard hike is 16 km, there may be alternative routes available. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about any options for longer or more challenging hikes through the Samaria Gorge.

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Recap

The Samariá Gorge guided hike from Chania is an unforgettable adventure that showcases Crete’s breathtaking natural beauty. Covering 16 km over 6-7 hours, this full-day excursion immerses travelers in stunning landscapes and provides the chance to spot the endangered Cretan kri-kri goat. With comfortable transportation, essential breaks, and knowledgeable guides, this exhilarating experience is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Crete.