Crete: Hiking Tour in Samaria Gorge

Crete’s Samaria Gorge is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure. Stretching 18 kilometers, this iconic European hike promises breathtaking scenery, from rugged mountainsides to lush forests and crystal-clear streams. While the challenge is not to be underestimated, those who embark on this tour will be rewarded with a unique opportunity to enjoy Crete’s stunning natural beauty. Beyond the hike, the itinerary includes a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea and the chance to savor traditional Greek cuisine in the charming fishing village of Agia Roumeli. The only question remaining is: are you ready to discover the wonders of this remarkable gorge?

Key Points

• Samaria Gorge is Europe’s longest gorge, offering a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience with diverse natural landscapes.
• The hiking tour includes transportation, a guide, entry fees, and a boat trip along the Libyan Sea.
• The tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, but not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with mobility issues.
• Highlights of the tour include relaxation in the fishing village of Agia Roumeli, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring traditional taverns.
• The overall tour experience is highly rated by customers, with positive feedback on the tour guide, transportation, and the stunning scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This hiking tour in Samaria Gorge, located on the island of Crete, typically starts from $43.57 per person and lasts between 12 to 16 hours.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also offers a reserve now and pay later option, enabling customers to book their spot without upfront payment.

During the hike, you will traverse Europe’s longest gorge, measuring 18 km long, 4 m wide, and up to 700 m deep.

The tour includes transportation, a tour guide, entry fees, and a boat trip along Crete’s southern coast, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Experience Highlights

Hikers embarking on this tour will be captivated by the grandeur of Europe’s longest gorge, Samaria Gorge, which stretches an impressive 18 km long, 4 m wide, and up to 700 m deep. The descent from the Omalos Plateau offers the opportunity to explore diverse natural landscapes, from rugged mountain terrain to lush, verdant vegetation. After the challenging hike, visitors can relax in the fishing village of Agia Roumeli, situated along the Libyan Sea, and enjoy a refreshing boat trip along the southern coast of Crete. The tour also includes a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and visit traditional taverns, providing a well-rounded experience of Crete’s natural splendor.

Gorge Length	Gorge Width	Gorge Depth	Duration
18 km	4 m	700 m	12 – 16 hours

Tour Details and Inclusions

The hiking tour in Samaria Gorge includes a pickup from select hotels, with bus transfers, a tour guide, and entry fees to the gorge and boat tour along the southern coast of Crete.

The tour is available in both German and English, catering to a diverse clientele.

However, the hike isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, or wheelchair users.

Hikers are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, water, and a light jacket, as well as pack a lunch.

Pets and open-toed shoes aren’t allowed on the tour.

The overall organization and customer service have received positive feedback, with the tour guide and transportation earning particularly high ratings.

Important Information and Recommendations

According to the information provided, the hiking tour in Samaria Gorge isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, or wheelchair users due to the challenging nature of the hike.

Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, a bathing suit, a light jacket, and a camera. Bringing a lunch is also advised.

It’s important to note that pets and open-toed shoes aren’t allowed on the tour. Following these recommendations can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience navigating the 18-kilometer-long gorge, which features diverse natural landscapes and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and visit traditional taverns.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Based on the provided information, customers have offered generally positive reviews of the hiking tour in Samaria Gorge, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 114 reviews.

Specifically, hikers praised the tour’s guide, transportation, service, and organization, with respective ratings of 4.8, 4.5, 4.4, and 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The feedback highlights include:

• The tour’s beautiful scenery and challenging hike

• The importance of wearing sturdy hiking shoes

• Some concerns about bus ride delays and communication with local guides

Hiking in the Gorge

Hikers descend from the Omalos Plateau into the awe-inspiring Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest at 18 km long, 4 m wide, and up to 700 m deep.

The diverse natural landscapes along the trail captivate visitors, from rocky outcrops to lush vegetation.

Navigating the narrow passageways and uneven terrain requires sturdy hiking shoes and a moderate level of fitness.

The hike can be challenging, but the stunning vistas make it a rewarding experience.

Upon reaching the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, hikers can relax, enjoy a meal, and take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea before continuing their journey.

Exploring Agia Roumeli

After completing the challenging hike through Samaria Gorge, visitors can look forward to exploring the charming fishing village of Agia Roumeli. This picturesque coastal settlement offers a well-deserved respite, where hikers can savor local cuisine, refresh themselves in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, and soak in the tranquil ambiance.

Agia Roumeli provides the perfect opportunity to:

• Indulge in fresh seafood at traditional tavernas along the waterfront

• Relax on the beach or take a swim in the invitingly azure waters

• Discover the area’s rich history and culture, including the ruins of an ancient city

With its serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, Agia Roumeli is a delightful destination to cap off the Samaria Gorge hiking experience.

Boat Trip Along the Coast

Upon completing the hike through Samaria Gorge, visitors can embark on a boat tour along the picturesque southern coast of Crete. This leisurely cruise offers a chance to admire the dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine scenery that are inaccessible by land. The boat trip typically lasts around 1-2 hours, providing ample time to soak in the breathtaking views. Along the way, passengers can stop to swim in the crystal-clear waters or explore traditional fishing villages like Agia Roumeli. This relaxing excursion serves as the perfect complement to the challenging gorge hike, allowing travelers to unwind and fully enjoy Crete’s natural beauty.

Feature	Description
Duration	1-2 hours
Highlights	Dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, pristine scenery
Activities	Swimming, exploring fishing villages
Accessibility	Inaccessible by land
Ideal For	Relaxation after the gorge hike

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age, but it is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those with heart problems. Children should be able to complete the challenging 18 km hike.

Are There Any Restrictions on Group Sizes or Solo Travelers?

The tour has no specific restrictions on group sizes or solo travelers. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, or wheelchair users due to the challenging nature of the hike.

Can I Choose My Own Start Time for the Hike?

Customers can’t choose their own start time for the Samaria Gorge hike. The tour operates on a fixed schedule, with set departure times to ensure an organized experience and efficient transportation. Hikers must follow the group’s schedule.

Is There an Option to Extend the Boat Tour Along the Coast?

Yes, the boat tour along the southern coast of Crete can be extended for an additional fee. This allows visitors to spend more time exploring the stunning coastal scenery and visiting additional fishing villages.

Do I Need to Purchase Any Additional Permits or Passes?

You’ll need to purchase an entry permit to hike the Samaria Gorge, which costs around €5 per person. The tour package typically includes this cost, but it’s important to double-check with the tour operator to ensure it’s covered.

Recap

The Samaria Gorge hiking tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Crete’s breathtaking natural beauty.

From the challenging trek through the longest gorge in Europe to the refreshing swim in Agia Roumeli and the relaxing boat trip along the southern coast, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience.

With expert guidance, convenient transportation, and inclusive amenities, this tour provides an exceptional way to discover the wonders of Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: