From Rethymno: Samaria Gorge Full-Day Trek With Pickup

This Samaria Gorge trek departs from Rethymno, offering air-conditioned bus transfers and multilingual guides to lead you through the stunning national park. You’ll embark on an 18 km hike, passing the dramatic ‘Iron Gates’ gorge and spotting Cretan wild goats along the way. At the end, a scenic boat ride takes you from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia. The full-day adventure includes park entrance fees, but food and remote hotel pickups are excluded. It’s a challenging trek, so sturdy hiking gear and physical fitness are required. Explore further to learn more about this unique opportunity to experience Crete’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Air-conditioned bus transfers provided for pickup and drop-off from various locations, including Rethymno.
• Guided 18 km trek through Samaria Gorge National Park, with opportunities to see wildlife and the abandoned village of Samaria.
• Entrance fee and boat ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia are included in the package, totaling €18 per person.
• Trek duration is 10-12 hours, with an early start time between 6:20 AM and 6:45 AM, requiring sturdy hiking boots and good physical condition.
• The trek is not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, those with back/health problems, or wheelchair users.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Transportation Details

The travel package includes pickup and drop-off from various locations via air-conditioned bus transfers.

This means you’ll be conveniently transported to the starting point of the Samaria Gorge trek and then back from the ending point at the end of the day.

The buses are equipped with air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Whether you’re staying in Rethymno or elsewhere in the region, the tour operators will arrange for your pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.

This door-to-door service allows you to focus on the exciting hiking adventure that awaits within the magnificent Samaria Gorge National Park.

Hiking Excursion Overview

During the hiking excursion, trekkers will embark on an 18 km journey through the stunning Samaria Gorge National Park, accompanied by English, German, and French-speaking guides.

This challenging yet rewarding trek takes them over rocky terrain, allowing them to enjoy the park’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights of the trek include:

• Passing through the famous ‘Iron Gates,’ a narrow gorge with towering cliffs on either side
• Spotting a variety of flora and fauna, including the elusive Cretan wild goat
• Stopping at the abandoned village of Samaria, a poignant reminder of the region’s history
• Enjoying panoramic views of the rugged, mountainous landscape
• Feeling a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the end of the trek at Agia Roumeli.

Entrance Ticket Information

As part of the travel package, visitors to Samaria Gorge National Park are required to pay an entrance fee of €5 on-site. This fee grants them access to the stunning natural wonder and helps support the park’s conservation efforts. Though not included in the upfront cost of the tour, this nominal charge ensures a memorable and sustainable hiking experience for all who venture through the gorge.

Payment Information
Entrance Fee	€5
Boat Ticket	€13
Total On-Site Fees	€18

The boat ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia, costing €13, is also payable on-site and not included in the package price. Visitors should budget accordingly and have the necessary cash on hand to cover these supplementary expenses prior to embarking on the trek.

Boat Ticket Requirements

Upon completing the Samaria Gorge trek, travelers must take a boat from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia, which costs an additional €13 per person.

This boat ticket isn’t included in the initial tour package price and must be paid for separately on-site.

The boat ride offers a scenic coastal view and is a convenient way to return to the starting point.

Key points about the boat ticket:

• Separate cost of €13 per person
• Payable on-site in cash
• Boat departs from Agia Roumeli
• Destination is the town of Sfakia
• Provides a scenic end to the hiking experience

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Included and Excluded Items

The Samaria Gorge trek package includes several key elements, such as transportation and the hiking excursion itself. Travelers will enjoy air-conditioned bus transfers and pickup and drop-off from various locations. The hiking portion features a guided trek through Samaria Gorge National Park, with an English, German, and French-speaking guide leading the way. Along the route, the entrance ticket to the gorge and a boat ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia are included.

However, there are also some notable exclusions that travelers should be aware of. The package doesn’t cover food and drink, and pickup from remote hotels isn’t provided.

Plus, the trek may not be suitable for certain groups, including children under 6, pregnant women, and those with back/health problems or who use wheelchairs.

Activity Duration and Timing

The Samaria Gorge trek spans a duration of 10-12 hours, with an early start time between 6:20 AM and 6:45 AM. This allows trekkers to make the most of the day and complete the 18 km hike through the stunning national park.

The long duration is necessary to accommodate the challenging terrain and distance. Participants should be prepared for a full day of activity:

• The trek involves walking over rocky ground for the entirety of the route.
• Trekkers will be accompanied by English, German, and French-speaking guides throughout the excursion.
• Good trekking shoes and a strong physical condition are essential for this demanding hike.
• The trek isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with back/health problems or who use wheelchairs.

Participants should be ready to depart early in the morning for this incredible outdoor adventure.

Participant Suitability Criteria

To participate in the Samaria Gorge trek, individuals must meet certain suitability criteria. The hike isn’t suitable for children under the age of 6, pregnant women, or those with back/health problems or who use wheelchairs, as the challenging terrain and lengthy duration pose significant risks for these groups.

Trekkers must be in good physical condition and wear appropriate hiking shoes to navigate the rocky 18 km trail.

The trek is led by English, German, and French-speaking guides, but participants are responsible for their own food and drink. Those staying at remote hotels will also need to arrange their own pickup.

Trekking Gear Necessities

Outfitted in proper trekking gear, participants can navigate the rocky terrain of Samaria Gorge with confidence. Sturdy hiking boots with good traction are essential, as the trail consists of uneven ground and steep descents.

Lightweight, breathable clothing that dries quickly is recommended to manage changing weather conditions during the trek.

To stay refreshed and hydrated, hikers should pack:

• Water bottle or hydration pack
• High-energy snacks
• Sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Walking stick or trekking poles for added stability

Packing the right equipment ensures a safe and enjoyable experience as participants explore the natural wonders of the Samaria Gorge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Hike Suitable for People With a Fear of Heights?

The hike through Samaria Gorge may not be suitable for people with a fear of heights, as the trail passes through some narrow, rocky sections with steep drop-offs on either side. Those with this concern should carefully consider if they can comfortably complete the 18 km trek.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hiking Excursion?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the hiking excursion through Samaria Gorge National Park. The tour is not designed to accommodate animals, and their presence could disrupt the guided hike and pose safety risks for the participant and their pet.

Will There Be Any Opportunities to Rest During the Trek?

The trek includes several opportunities to rest along the way. Hikers can take breaks at designated resting areas, where they can catch their breath and hydrate before continuing the 18 km journey through the Samaria Gorge National Park.

Can I Purchase Food and Drinks Along the Trail?

No, there are no opportunities to purchase food or drinks along the Samaria Gorge trail. Hikers must bring their own provisions, as the trek does not include any stops for food or refreshment during the 18 km hike.

Is There an Option to Skip the Boat Ride at the End?

There is no option to skip the boat ride from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia at the end of the trek. The boat ticket is an included part of the Samaria Gorge excursion and must be paid on-site.

Recap

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s most captivating natural wonders.

This full-day trek in Crete’s untamed wilderness promises an immersive experience, with knowledgeable guides, included transportation, and boat tickets ensuring a seamless adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, this UNESCO-protected gem will leave you awestruck and inspired by the sheer beauty of Crete’s rugged terrain.

You can check if your dates are available here: