Set out on a challenging yet rewarding hiking adventure from Heraklion to the stunning Samaria Gorge and serene Agia Roumeli. This 16 km trek through the breathtaking White Mountains offers spectacular vistas, encounters with Cretan wild goats, and the chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters. With convenient transportation and a well-planned itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the natural beauty of Crete. But as you’ll soon discover, the real thrill lies in the physical and mental challenge of this incredible journey.
Key Points
-
Full-day excursion from Heraklion to Samaria Gorge and Agia Roumeli, including scenic drives, a challenging 16 km hike, and a swim/lunch in Agia Roumeli.
-
Comprehensive itinerary with 13 pickup locations in Heraklion, air-conditioned bus transportation, and a guided trek through the longest gorge in Europe.
-
Samaria Gorge trek offers breathtaking vistas, wildlife encounters, and opportunities to cool off in crystal-clear waters, culminating in reaching the seaside village of Agia Roumeli.
-
Hiking experience requires a certain level of physical fitness and preparedness, with limited time in Agia Roumeli potentially leaving travelers feeling rushed.
-
Overall highly rated tour, with reliable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a sense of accomplishment from completing the challenging trek.
Trip Overview
Offering a full-day excursion, this Samaria Gorge & Agia Roumeli Hiking Day Trip provides participants with the opportunity to explore one of Europe’s longest gorges.
Priced from €1,253 per person, the 15.5 to 17.5-hour adventure is available in multiple languages, including French, German, English, Dutch, and Polish.
Pickup from select locations in the Heraklion area is included, and travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The itinerary features scenic drives, a challenging 16 km trek, and a swim and lunch stop in the coastal town of Agia Roumeli.
Itinerary and Transportation
The day trip includes pickup from 13 different locations in the Heraklion area, such as Stalida, Heraklion, Gouves, Hersonissos, and Malia. Participants will travel in an air-conditioned bus, which includes a 100-minute drive to Rethymno, a 2.5-hour scenic drive, a 4.5-hour guided trek through Samaria Gorge, and a 1-hour ferry ride. The transportation and activities are designed to provide a comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and natural wonders of Crete.
| Pickup | Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 13 locations | 15.5 – 17.5 hours | Scenic views, hiking, swimming, lunch |
| Air-conditioned bus | Includes 100 minutes to Rethymno, 2.5 hours scenic drive, 4.5 hours guided trek, 1 hour ferry ride | Samaria Gorge, White Mountains, Cretan wild goats |
Exploring Samaria Gorge
Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe, offers hikers a challenging and rewarding trekking experience through stunning landscapes.
The 16 km trek takes adventurers through the White Mountains and past Cretan wild goats, known as Kri-Kri.
During the hike, travelers can expect:
- Breathtaking vistas of towering cliffs and lush vegetation.
- Glimpses of the elusive Kri-Kri, a protected species unique to the region.
- Opportunities to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the gorge.
- A sense of accomplishment upon reaching the quaint seaside village of Agia Roumeli.
The Samaria Gorge trek is a true test of endurance, but the rewards of exploring this natural wonder make it a must-do experience for avid hikers.
Hiking Experience
Traversing the Samaria Gorge requires a certain level of physical fitness and preparedness. The 16 km hike through this stunning landscape is considered challenging, with rocky terrain and steep inclines. Hikers can expect to encounter breathtaking views of the White Mountains and spot the elusive Cretan wild goats, known as Kri-Kri, along the way.
| Trail Difficulty | Distance | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Challenging | 16 km | Steep inclines |
Breaks are scheduled at Rethymno and Agia Roumeli, allowing hikers to rest, swim, and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. However, the limited time in Agia Roumeli after the hike may leave some travelers feeling rushed. Careful planning and proper equipment are essential for a safe and enjoyable Samaria Gorge experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Although the Samaria Gorge hiking day trip includes a variety of amenities, there are also certain restrictions and exclusions that travelers should be aware of.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned bus, a professional driver, a guide during the trek, liability travel insurance, the Samaria Gorge entrance fee, lunch, snacks, drinks, and a ferry ticket.
However, the trip isn’t suitable for:
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with back problems
- Individuals with heart problems
- Children, as the trek can be challenging for them and untrained individuals.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
The Samaria Gorge hiking day trip offers a variety of pickup locations throughout Heraklion and the surrounding areas.
Travelers can choose from 13 different pickup points, including Stalida, Heraklion, Gouves, Hersonissos, and Malia. The air-conditioned bus will then transport participants for a scenic 2.5-hour drive to the starting point of the hike.
After completing the challenging 16-km trek through the Samaria Gorge, the group will take a 1-hour ferry ride to Agia Roumeli, where they can enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
At the end of the day, the bus will return travelers to their original pickup locations.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Samaria Gorge hiking day trip, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 269 reviews.
Highlights of the experience include:
- The stunning natural beauty of the gorge and surrounding landscapes
- The well-organized nature of the tour, with reliable transportation and a knowledgeable guide
- The sense of accomplishment from completing the challenging 16 km trek
- The opportunity to swim and have lunch in the picturesque seaside town of Agia Roumeli
While the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions, the feedback suggests it offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure for active travelers.
Trip Highlights and Challenges
As the Samaria Gorge hiking day trip takes travelers on a challenging 16 km trek through stunning landscapes, the natural beauty and sense of accomplishment are among the top highlights.
Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the White Mountains and encounters with the iconic Cretan wild goats, known as Kri-Kri.
However, the difficulty of the hike may pose challenges for some, particularly children and those who aren’t experienced hikers.
The limited time in Agia Roumeli after the trek has also been noted by some travelers as a potential downside.
Despite these factors, the overall experience is highly rated, with many praising the well-organized nature of the trip and the opportunity to take in Crete’s remarkable natural surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hike Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?
The hike is not suitable for people with limited mobility. The 16 km trek through Samaria Gorge is described as challenging, and the trip is not recommended for those with back or heart problems.
What Is the Weather Like During the Hike?
The hike through Samaria Gorge can be challenging due to the hot, dry Mediterranean climate. Temperatures often reach 30°C (86°F), so hikers should come prepared with appropriate clothing, sun protection, and plenty of water.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the hike, but lunch and snacks are already included in the tour. Bringing extra water is recommended to stay hydrated during the challenging 16 km trek through Samaria Gorge.
Are There Any Medical Facilities Along the Hike?
There are no medical facilities along the Samaria Gorge hike. However, the tour includes liability travel insurance and guides who can assist in case of minor injuries or emergencies during the challenging 16 km trek through the gorge.
Can I Extend My Stay in Agia Roumeli After the Hike?
You can’t extend your stay in Agia Roumeli after the hike. The package includes a 1-hour ferry ride back, so you’ll need to depart with the group. You’ll have limited time in Agia Roumeli to rest and enjoy the area.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
Recap
Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Crete’s Samaria Gorge and Agia Roumeli. This challenging yet rewarding hike offers stunning vistas, encounters with wildlife, and a refreshing swim. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure exploring this natural wonder. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience, this day trip is sure to leave a lasting impression.