From Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, Malia: Samaria Gorge Day Trip

Exploring the stunning Samaria Gorge is a must-do activity for visitors to Crete. This exhilarating day trip from Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, or Malia promises an immersive journey through one of Europe’s longest and most breathtaking natural wonders. With a price tag of just $49.01 per person, travelers can embark on a 12-14 hour adventure that includes hotel pickup, guided hiking, and impressive views of the White Mountains. However, the challenge of this 10-mile trek shouldn’t be underestimated, as hikers must be prepared with comfortable shoes and a willingness to fully enjoy this incredible natural environment.

Key Points

• The Samaria Gorge Day Trip is a 12-14 hour excursion with pickup and drop-off from Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, and Malia, priced at $49.01 per person.
• The tour includes an English/French-speaking guide, air-conditioned bus transfers, and a challenging 10-mile hike through the Samaria Gorge National Park.
• The hike is not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with back, mobility, or heart issues due to the physical demands.
• Travelers are responsible for their own food and drink expenses, and the boat ticket to Agia Roumeli (€13) must be purchased separately.
• Reviewers emphasize the importance of proper hiking gear, such as comfortable shoes and sun protection, to fully enjoy the stunning natural scenery along the trail.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The Samaria Gorge Day Trip offers visitors a chance to explore one of Europe’s longest gorges, with departures from various locations in Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, and Malia at a price range of $49.01 per person.

The 12-14 hour excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English/French-speaking guide, air-conditioned bus transfers, and the hiking tour through the gorge.

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

The trip isn’t recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with back, mobility, or heart issues, as the hike through the rocky terrain is considered challenging.

Itinerary and Experience

Starting the day earlier than the stated time, the tour begins with hotel or nearest vehicle-accessible point pickups.

The drive to Omalos takes approximately 2.33 hours and includes a 30-minute breakfast break for scenic views.

Once at the starting point, hikers embark on a 4-hour, 10-mile trek through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge.

The hike covers rocky terrain and showcases the White Mountains, ancient forests, and extraordinary rock formations.

After the hike, the group visits Agia Roumeli for a 2-hour lunch, swimming, and free time.

The return journey includes a 1-hour ferry ride and a 2.33-hour bus ride back to the pickup locations.

• Challenging 10-mile hike through one of Europe’s longest gorges

• Opportunity to admire the White Mountains, ancient forests, and rock formations

• Potential sightings of indigenous rare plants, flowers, and mountain goats

• Lunch, swimming, and free time in the coastal town of Agia Roumeli

• Convenient transportation with hotel pickups and a mix of bus and ferry rides

Highlights and Natural Features

One of the main highlights of this day trip is the opportunity to trek through Samaria Gorge National Park, which is renowned as one of Europe’s longest and most captivating gorges.

Hikers can admire the breathtaking vistas of the White Mountains, ancient forests, and extraordinary rock formations that line the 10-mile trail.

Plus, the gorge is home to a variety of indigenous rare plants, flowers, and bird species, with the possibility of spotting mountain goats in their natural habitat.

This unique and pristine natural environment provides a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience for those seeking to connect with the stunning landscapes of Crete.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This day trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English or French-speaking guide, air-conditioned bus transfers, the hiking tour, and entrance ticket to Samaria Gorge.

Please note that the boat ticket to Agia Roumeli must be purchased separately onsite for an additional €13.

Travelers will need to cover the cost of their own food and drinks during the excursion.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with back, mobility, or heart problems.

Recommended items to bring include:

• Comfortable shoes

• Hat

• Hiking shoes

• Water

• Sun protection

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Important Information

The trek through the Samaria Gorge is challenging, so travelers must ensure they wear good trekking shoes. Customer reviews highlight the importance of proper footwear and preparation for the hike. Recommended items to bring also include a hat, water, and comfortable clothing. The hike covers 10 miles (17 kilometers) over rocky terrain, so individuals with back, mobility, or heart problems should avoid this activity. Plus, the tour is not suitable for children under 6 or pregnant women.

Recommended Items	Essential
Comfortable Shoes	✓
Hat	✓
Water	✓
Hiking Shoes	✓
Comfortable Clothing	✓

Customer Feedback

Customers have rated the Samaria Gorge day trip an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 148 reviews.

Guide and transportation services received ratings of 4.8/5 and 4.2/5 respectively, while the value for money was scored 4.4/5.

Reviewers consistently highlighted the well-organized nature of the tour, the breathtaking views, and the challenging yet rewarding hike. They emphasized the importance of proper footwear and preparation, as the trek through the gorge can be strenuous.

Key highlights from customer feedback include:

• Well-organized tour

• Stunning natural scenery

• Challenging but enjoyable hike

• Importance of proper hiking gear

• Excellent value for money

Pickup Locations

The Samaria Gorge day trip offers pickup locations from a variety of towns and cities across Crete, including Malia, Stalis, Hersonisos, Anissaras, Analipsi, Gouves, Gournes, Heraklion, Ammoudara, Agia Pelagia, Lygaria, and Fodele.

This wide range of pickup points ensures convenience for travelers, allowing them to join the excursion from the location most suitable for their accommodation.

The pickup process begins earlier than the stated starting time, with the tour operator collecting participants from their hotels or the closest vehicle-accessible points.

This flexibility in pickup locations contributes to the overall seamless organization of the Samaria Gorge day trip, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of visitors.

Suitability and Recommendations

While the Samaria Gorge day trip offers a captivating adventure, it’s crucial to carefully consider one’s physical abilities and health conditions before embarking on this challenging hike.

The trek isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with back, mobility, or heart problems. Proper preparation is essential, including bringing comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes, a hat, and plenty of water.

Here are some key recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear

• Bring sun protection and hydration

• Pace yourself and take breaks as needed

• Be mindful of your physical limits

• Listen to your guide’s instructions throughout the hike

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

No, pets are not allowed on the Samaria Gorge hike. The trek is challenging, and the presence of animals could disturb the fragile natural environment. The tour operator explicitly states the hike is not suitable for children under 6 or those with mobility issues.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students on this Samaria Gorge day trip. The price of $49.01 per person applies to all participants regardless of age or student status.

How Difficult Is the Hike for an Experienced Trekker?

The hike through Samaria Gorge is challenging even for experienced trekkers, covering 10 miles of rocky terrain. It’s recommended to have good trekking shoes and be prepared for the physically demanding nature of the trek.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?

The Samaria Gorge day trip doesn’t offer a private tour option. It’s a shared group tour, but the operator provides hotel pickup and drop-off, an English/French-speaking guide, and transportation to make the experience as convenient as possible for participants.

Can I Extend My Stay in Agia Roumeli After the Hike?

While the organized day trip does not typically allow for extending the stay in Agia Roumeli, travelers could consider making their own arrangements to stay longer in the coastal town after completing the Samaria Gorge hike. However, this would require separate planning.

Recap

The Samaria Gorge day trip from Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, or Malia offers an unforgettable adventure through one of Europe’s longest and most stunning gorges.

With a challenging 10-mile hike and breathtaking views of the White Mountains, this tour provides an immersive experience amidst unique flora and fauna.

At just $49.01 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore this natural wonder and create lasting memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: