Full-Day Samaria Gorge Private Hiking Tour

Exploring the Samaria Gorge in Crete is a must-do for nature enthusiasts. This full-day private hiking tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in one of Europe’s most stunning canyons. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, hikers can expect an exhilarating 16-kilometer trek, complete with breathtaking vistas and a delightful picnic lunch. While the journey may be challenging, the sense of accomplishment and the memories created make it a truly unforgettable experience. Those seeking an adventure that combines physical activity, stunning scenery, and cultural insight won’t want to miss this exceptional excursion.

Good To Know

• Full-day private hiking tour through the iconic Samaria Gorge, covering a distance of 16 kilometers typically traversed in 5-7 hours.
• Includes private transportation, ferry tickets, National Park fees, picnic lunch, snacks, walking sticks, and a first-aid kit.
• Tour starts and ends at Xyloskalo café-restaurant in Omalos, with the option to request pickup from a designated location.
• Not recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions due to the physical demands of the trek.
• Tour boasts a 5.0 overall rating with a single review praising the breathtaking experience, informative guide, and quality of the provided lunch.

Tour Overview

This full-day Samaria Gorge private hiking tour takes adventurous travelers on an unforgettable journey through one of Crete’s most stunning natural wonders.

The 16-kilometer trek through the dramatic gorge typically takes 5-7 hours, ending at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.

The tour includes private transportation, ferry tickets, and National Park fees, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Hikers will enjoy a picnic lunch and snacks along the way, as well as walking sticks and a team first-aid kit for added support and safety.

The tour is best suited for active individuals, as it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.

Inclusions

The Samaria Gorge hiking tour includes a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and well-supported experience. Snacks, lunch, and even breakfast are provided to fuel adventurers during the long trek. Hikers won’t have to worry about equipment – the tour includes walking sticks and a first aid kit for the team. The tour also takes care of transportation, with private transfers and ferry tickets included. To complete the experience, national park fees are covered, so travelers can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the gorge.

Inclusions	Description
Snacks	Provided throughout the hike
Lunch	Served during the tour
Breakfast	Enjoyed at the start of the day
Walking Sticks	Available for use during the hike

Meeting and Pickup

Conveniently, the tour begins at the Xyloskalo café-restaurant in Omalos, providing a central meeting point for participants.

Travelers have the option to either meet the group directly at the café or request pickup. The tour ends back at the same meeting point where it started.

Private transportation, including ferry tickets, is provided throughout the day’s excursion. This hassle-free arrangement allows hikers to focus on enjoying the stunning views and challenging terrain of the Samaria Gorge without worrying about logistics.

With pickup and drop-off at a designated location, the tour streamlines the overall experience for a seamless, full-day adventure.

Health and Accessibility

Regarding health and accessibility, the Samaria Gorge hiking tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

However, the tour is near public transportation, and infant seats are available.

While the trail isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.

Hikers should be aware of the physical demands of the 13-mile trek through the gorge.

Proper footwear, hydration, and physical fitness are essential.

The tour provider offers walking sticks and a first-aid kit to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the Samaria Gorge hiking tour is immediately received upon booking.

Guests have the flexibility to cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

The tour operator promises the lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best value.

For added convenience, guests can opt for the Reserve Now and Pay Later option.

These policies provide flexibility and peace of mind when planning the Samaria Gorge adventure.

Reviews

The Samaria Gorge hiking tour boasts an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on a single review.

According to Deborah_K, who visited in May 2024, the experience was "breathtaking and unique."

The reviewer praised the guide’s informativeness and the quality of the lunch provided during the tour.

With this positive feedback, it’s clear that the tour delivers an exceptional experience that immerses visitors in the stunning natural beauty of Samaria Gorge.

For those seeking an adventurous yet well-organized hike through one of Crete’s most iconic landscapes, this private tour comes highly recommended based on the glowing review.

Directions

To begin the hike, you will meet at the Xyloskalo café-restaurant in Omalos, the designated meeting point for the tour.

From there, the group will be transported to the starting point of the Samaria Gorge hike. The tour offers two pickup options: meeting at the designated location or requesting a pickup.

After completing the hike, the tour will return participants to the original meeting point. The journey covers the full length of the gorge, and the return to Chania is expected around 8:00 – 8:30 PM.

The tour includes:

1. Private transportation
2. Ferry tickets
3. National Park fees
4. Walking sticks and a first aid kit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hike?

The hike is considered moderately difficult, as it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions. However, most travelers can participate and should prepare accordingly to complete the challenging 16-kilometer trek.

How Much Water and Snacks Should I Bring?

The hike through the Samaria Gorge is strenuous, so it’s recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks. Hikers should pack at least 2-3 liters of water and high-energy snacks like trail mix or granola bars to fuel them along the way.

Can I Rent Hiking Boots at the Meeting Point?

Yes, you can rent hiking boots at the Xyloskalo café-restaurant meeting point. They offer a variety of hiking gear rentals to ensure you’re properly equipped for the Samaria Gorge hike.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

Yes, there are restroom facilities along the Samaria Gorge trail. Hikers can find basic restroom amenities at several locations during the approximately 16 km trek through the scenic gorge in Crete, Greece.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the Samaria Gorge hike. The trail is quite challenging and not suitable for pets. Hikers must leave their dogs at home for this particular tour.

The Sum Up

The Samaria Gorge Private Hiking Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore one of Crete’s natural wonders. With private transportation, ferry tickets, and a delightful picnic lunch included, this guided trek offers a seamless and immersive experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply wish to marvel at the breathtaking scenery, this tour is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts.