Crete: Private Guided Trek to Samaria Gorge With Transfer

Set out on a private guided trek through Crete’s stunning Samaria Gorge with seamless transportation. This challenging 18km hike immerses you in Crete’s breathtaking natural landscapes. The full-day excursion includes pickup and drop-off from select locations, a breakfast break, and free time to swim in Agia Roumeli. While a moderate to high fitness level is required, the sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring scenery make it a rewarding adventure. Read on to discover more details about this unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• This full-day private guided trek to Samaria Gorge, a challenging 18 km hike, is suitable for those aged 6 and up, with pickup and drop-off from select locations.
• The guided trek includes a 1.5-hour van transfer to the starting point in Omalos, a breakfast break, and a 4-hour hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge National Park.
• After the hike, there is free time and the opportunity to go swimming in Agia Roumeli, followed by a 1.5-hour van transfer back to the original pickup locations.
• The private guided trek is led by a professional driver and includes liability insurance, but excludes entrance and boat tickets, food, and tips.
• The challenging trek through the Samaria Gorge is not recommended for young children, pregnant women, or those with health issues, requiring a moderate to high level of fitness.

You can check if your dates are available here:

About the Activity

This private guided trek to Samaria Gorge is a challenging 18 km hike through the stunning natural landscape of Crete’s Samaria Gorge National Park.

The full-day trip lasts around 10 hours and is suitable for those aged 6 and up, but not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with health issues.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views and a breakfast break before entering the gorge.

After the hike, you’ll have free time and the chance to go swimming in Agia Roumeli.

This activity is led by a professional driver and includes hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off, as well as liability insurance.

Pickup and Drop-off

The private guided trek to Samaria Gorge includes pickup and drop-off service from select locations in the Rethymno, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, Rethymno town, Sfakaki, Stavromenos, Petres, Georgioupolis, Lavris, Gerani, Atsipopoulo, and Chania areas.

This ensures a convenient start and end to the day’s adventure. Travelers are picked up from their hotel or Airbnb and transported in a luxury Mercedes Vito van.

After completing the challenging 18 km trek through the Samaria Gorge, the van will return guests to their original pickup locations. This seamless service allows participants to fully focus on the stunning scenery and rewarding hike without worrying about transportation logistics.

Itinerary Overview

The private guided trek to Samaria Gorge begins with a van transfer (1.5 hours) from the pickup locations to the village of Omalos, where participants enjoy a break and breakfast while taking in the scenic mountain views.

Once fueled up, the group sets off on the 4-hour hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge National Park.

The challenging 18 km trek immerses hikers in Crete’s breathtaking natural landscapes.

The arrival in Agia Roumeli allows for a relaxing lunch and free time to swim in the crystal-clear waters.

The final ferry ride (1 hour) and van transfer (1.5 hours) back to the pickup points provide a leisurely conclusion to the day’s adventures.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off, providing a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure. Travelers will ride in a luxury Mercedes Vito van, with all legal taxes and liability insurance covered. The professional driver ensures a safe and comfortable journey. The hiking excursion itself is a highlight, with guided navigation through the stunning Samaria Gorge National Park.

Included	Not Included
Hotel/Airbnb Pickup/Drop-off	Entrance Ticket to Samaria Gorge
Luxury Mercedes Vito Van	Boat Ticket
Legal Taxes	Food and Drink
Liability Insurance	Personal Expenses
Professional Driver	Tips for Driver
Hiking Excursion

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Excluded From the Tour

While the tour includes a range of amenities, there are several exclusions travelers should be aware of. Visitors must purchase their own entrance ticket to Samaria Gorge, which costs €5. Plus, a boat ticket costing €13 is required for the ferry ride.

Guests are responsible for covering their own food, drinks, and personal expenses during the day. On top of that, tips for the driver aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour’s exclusions include:

1. Entrance ticket to Samaria Gorge (€5)
2. Boat ticket for the ferry ride (€13)
3. Food, drinks, and personal expenses

Challenging Trek Details

This 18-kilometer trek through the Samaria Gorge is a challenging endeavor, requiring a moderate level of fitness and endurance. Hikers should be prepared for steep descents, rocky terrain, and exposure to the elements throughout the 4-hour journey.

While the stunning scenery and sense of accomplishment make the trek worthwhile, it’s not recommended for young children, pregnant women, or those with health concerns. The trail may be difficult for some, but those who complete it will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rugged, canyon landscape.

Proper preparation and caution are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience in this renowned natural wonder of Crete.

Suitability and Restrictions

This trek through the Samaria Gorge isn’t suitable for everyone, as it poses certain restrictions. The trail is considered difficult, with steep sections and uneven terrain that could be too much for young children or those with physical limitations.

Children under 6 years old, pregnant women, and those with health issues shouldn’t attempt the challenging 18-kilometer hike.

A moderate to high level of fitness is required to complete the trek comfortably and safely.

Explore Samaria Gorge

Embarking on this private guided trek, explorers will be immersed in the stunning grandeur of Samaria Gorge, a natural wonder nestled within Crete’s rugged landscape. This challenging 18-kilometer hike through the gorge’s breathtaking terrain promises an unforgettable adventure. Along the way, trekkers will be treated to awe-inspiring vistas, from the lush vegetation that lines the path to the towering cliffs that flank the route. The journey culminates in the charming seaside town of Agia Roumeli, where a refreshing swim and a well-earned lunch await. This immersive experience offers a true connection with Crete’s natural beauty and the opportunity to explore one of the island’s most iconic natural treasures.

Highlights	Duration	Difficulty
Scenic views	4 hours	Challenging
Hiking through the gorge	–	–
Swimming at Agia Roumeli	–	–

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Trek Strenuous for Someone Who Is Not Very Active?

The trek through Samaria Gorge can be quite strenuous for those who are not very active. It’s an 18 km hike over challenging terrain, which may be difficult for those unaccustomed to such physical activity.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Trek?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the trek. However, lunch is not included in the tour, so hikers will need to pack their own sustenance for the duration of the challenging 18 km hike.

Are There Any Restrooms or Facilities Along the Hiking Trail?

There are basic restroom facilities at the starting and ending points of the hiking trail, but limited options along the 18 km route. Hikers should plan accordingly and expect to use the natural terrain if no facilities are available during the trek.

Can We Stop and Take Breaks During the Trek?

Yes, there are opportunities to take breaks during the trek. The guide will stop at designated rest areas along the way, allowing hikers to rest, hydrate, and take in the scenic views of Samaria Gorge.

Is There an Option to Skip the Ferry and Take the Van Back?

Yes, there is an option to skip the ferry and take the van back. The itinerary allows for flexibility, and participants can choose to forgo the ferry and return by van if they prefer.

Recap

Set out on a private guided trek through the captivating Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and most dramatic.

This adrenaline-fueled hike promises an unforgettable experience as you learn about Crete’s breathtaking landscapes.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a nature enthusiast, this full-day excursion offers a chance to explore the rugged terrain of this protected national park.

You can check if your dates are available here: