Explore the stunning Samaria Gorge on a private hiking tour through Samaria National Park. This full-day adventure offers nature enthusiasts a chance to discover a UNESCO-recognized biosphere teeming with unique wildlife. Priced affordably from €500 for up to three participants, the tour includes roundtrip transfers, a guided 5-hour hike, and a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea. Savor local culinary delights as you learn about the breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that’ll leave you yearning for more.
Good To Know
- This full-day private tour offers a guided hike through the UNESCO-recognized Samaria Gorge in Samaria National Park, spanning 16 km.
- The tour includes roundtrip transfers from Chania, a certified trekking guide, and all necessary park entrance fees and boat tickets.
- Participants must be at least 12 years old, have a fitness level suitable for the challenging 5-hour hike, and wear appropriate hiking attire.
- The tour showcases the park’s unique wildlife, cultural experiences, and the opportunity to swim in the Libyan Sea after the hike.
- Meals, drinks, personal trekking gear, and other personal expenses are not included in the tour price of €500 for up to 3 participants.
Tour Overview
The Samaria National Park Private Hiking Tour offers a full-day adventure through one of Europe’s deepest and most dramatic gorges.
Priced from €500 per group of up to 3 participants, the tour includes a 1-day itinerary with roundtrip transfers from Chania.
Guided by an English and Greek-speaking expert, hikers will traverse the 16km Samaria Gorge, witnessing the UNESCO-recognized biosphere and its unique wildlife.
Following the hike, the tour provides time for a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea and sampling local cuisine.
With a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private tour promises an unforgettable Cretan experience.
Itinerary Details
Beginning with the Samaria National Park Private Hiking Tour, the experience commences with a car transfer from Chania to the national park entrance, a journey spanning approximately 75 minutes.
Participants may opt for a 30-minute break at a local café before embarking on the 5-hour hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge.
After the trek, there’s free time in Agia Roumeli, followed by a 1.5-hour ferry ride and a 1.5-hour car return to Chania.
The total hiking distance covers 16 km with an elevation difference of 1200 meters, providing a challenging yet rewarding adventure through this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Highlights and Features
Samaria National Park is recognized globally as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its unique and diverse ecosystem. Home to the Cretan mountain goat, the largest mammal on Crete, the park offers captivating wildlife spotting opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage, learning about the centuries-old tradition of living in harmony with nature.
| Highlight | Feature |
|---|---|
| UNESCO Biosphere Reserve | Unique ecosystem |
| Wildlife Spotting | Cretan mountain goats |
| Cultural Experience | Centuries-old traditions |
After the strenuous hike, travelers can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea and indulge in the local culinary specialties, completing an unforgettable adventure.
Included in the Tour
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This private hiking tour includes a certified trekking guide who’ll lead the group throughout the excursion.
The guide will provide a team first aid kit for any emergencies.
All private transfers to and from the Samaria National Park entrance are included, as well as the national park entrance fee and boat tickets.
The tour covers the 16km hike with a total elevation difference of 1200m.
While meals, drinks, personal trekking gear, and other personal expenses aren’t included, the tour provides a comprehensive package to explore the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Samaria National Park.
Not Included in the Tour
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While the tour includes a comprehensive package, there are a few things that aren’t covered. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their own meals, drinks, and snacks during the hike and breaks.
Plus, any personal trekking gear, such as hiking poles or backpacks, must be provided by the participants themselves.
Lastly, travelers will need to cover any personal expenses incurred throughout the day, like souvenirs or additional activities in Agia Roumeli.
Staying hydrated and fueled is crucial, so packing sufficient water and snacks is recommended.
Participant Requirements
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Hikers must meet specific requirements to participate in the Samaria National Park Private Hiking Tour. The tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including children under 12, pregnant women, those with specific health conditions, people over 287 lbs (130 kg), and those with low fitness levels.
Participants should come prepared with comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, extra clothing, towels, snacks, and water.
Prohibited items include jeans, sandals, baby strollers, drones, alcohol, and littering. Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all hikers exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Samaria National Park.
Participant Recommendations
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To fully enjoy the Samaria National Park Private Hiking Tour, participants should bring along a few essential items.
First and foremost, comfortable hiking shoes are a must to tackle the 16km trail. Sun protection, such as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, is also crucial given the exposed nature of the hike.
Bringing a towel, a change of clothes, and snacks or water is recommended to refresh during the journey. Plus, having any personal medication on hand is advisable.
Participants should avoid wearing jeans or sandals, as these can be impractical for the terrain. By packing the right gear, hikers can focus on the breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife during their Samaria Gorge adventure.
Prohibited Items
Certain items are prohibited on the Samaria National Park Private Hiking Tour to ensure the safety and preservation of the environment.
Participants can’t bring jeans or sandals, as they’re unsuitable for the rugged terrain. Baby strollers are also not allowed, as the hiking trails aren’t accessible for them.
Drones are prohibited to avoid disturbing the local wildlife and to respect the park’s tranquility. Alcoholic beverages aren’t permitted, as they can impair judgment and pose safety risks.
Plus, littering is strictly forbidden to maintain the pristine natural beauty of the national park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Split the Cost With Other Hikers?
Yes, you can split the cost with other hikers. The tour price of €500 is for up to 3 participants, so you can share the cost with up to 2 other people.
Are There Any Group Discounts Available?
Group discounts aren’t offered, but the price per person decreases as the group size increases. The tour has a flat fee of €500 for up to 3 participants, making it more affordable to share the cost.
Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?
No, dogs are not permitted on the hike. The tour operator prohibits bringing pets for the safety and comfort of all participants. Only service animals are allowed on the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Hike Duration?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the hike duration. The standard itinerary includes a 5-hour hike in Samaria Gorge. Any changes to the duration would need to be arranged separately with the tour provider.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Customers can discuss customizing the itinerary with the tour provider. They’ll work together to accommodate preferences within the overall tour structure, subject to feasibility and guide availability.
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The Sum Up
The Samaria National Park Private Hiking Tour offers an exceptional full-day adventure for nature enthusiasts. Exploring the UNESCO-recognized biosphere, participants can hike the stunning Samaria Gorge, discover unique wildlife, savor local cuisine, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea – all while benefiting from roundtrip transfers and a knowledgeable guide. This memorable experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating natural beauty of Samaria National Park.