Exploring the breathtaking Lasithi Plateau is a must-do for any visitor to Crete. This full-day excursion from Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos promises an unforgettable glimpse of the island’s cultural heritage. With comfortable transportation and expert guides, travelers can enjoy the stunning landscapes dotted with traditional windmills and ancient cave dwellings. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – a scenic hike through the renowned Samaria Gorge and a relaxing boat trip to Agia Roumeli await, offering a chance to discover Crete’s natural wonders and savor its local cuisine. Whether you’re seeking a cultural odyssey or a breathtaking outdoor adventure, this tour has something to captivate every traveler.
Key Points
- This full-day excursion from Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos offers a comprehensive tour of the Lasithi Plateau, including hotel pickup and professional guides.
- The tour includes the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest hiking trails, with admission fee covered, as well as a scenic boat ride to Agia Roumeli.
- Comfortable transportation, traditional Cretan cuisine, and a maximum group size of 50 participants ensure an intimate and enjoyable experience.
- Participants should wear sturdy shoes and come prepared for potential swimming opportunities, as the tour may not be wheelchair accessible.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies, including a reserve now and pay later option, provide added convenience for travelers.
Tour Overview and Details
The Lasithi Plateau tour offers a full-day excursion from Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of this picturesque region.
The tour includes hotel pick-up from several nearby locations and is led by professional guides who can communicate in English, French, and German. Travelers will be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day.
The tour also includes the admission fee to Samaria and a boat ticket to Agia Roumeli – Sfakia, allowing participants to fully enjoy the natural wonders of the area.
With a maximum of 50 travelers per tour, this excursion offers an intimate and personalized experience.
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Inclusions
The tour includes a souvlaki, pita, and soft drink for participants.
The admission fee to Samaria, valued at €5, is also covered.
Plus, a boat ticket to Agia Roumeli – Sfakia, costing €13.00 for adults and €7.50 for children, is provided as part of the tour.
However, any other food, drinks, or personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.
The tour offers a comprehensive package, ensuring visitors can enjoy the highlights of the Lasithi Plateau without worrying about additional costs.
Participants are advised to bring their own meals or purchase them during the tour, as the inclusions are limited to the specified items.
Pickup Information
Pickup and drop-off locations are limited to the specified areas, which include Malia, Stalis, Hersonisos, Anisaras, Gouves, Heraklio, Amoudara, Ag. Pelagia, and Fodele.
Confirmation of the pickup details is provided at the time of booking, and travelers must mention their hotel name and location when making the reservation.
Pickup begins up to 90 minutes before the tour’s scheduled start time. This ensures that all participants are gathered and ready for the tour’s departure.
The tour operator’s goal is to provide a seamless and efficient transportation experience, allowing guests to focus on the wonderful sights and activities that await them on the Lasithi Plateau tour.
Participation Requirements
Participants must be aware that the Lasithi Plateau tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, requiring comfortable, sturdy shoes. Swimsuits are also advised, as the tour may include opportunities for swimming. Tour groups are limited to a maximum of 50 travelers.
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, there are a few key considerations:
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Proper footwear is essential, as the terrain can be uneven and challenging at times.
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Bringing a swimsuit allows you to fully learn about the natural beauty of the region, should the opportunity arise.
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The group size is capped at 50 to provide a more personalized and intimate tour experience.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
The Lasithi Plateau tour is priced from $40.63 per person, offering a Lowest Price Guarantee.
Travelers enjoy free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience starts, with a Reserve now and pay later option available. This flexibility allows guests to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.
The tour covers a full-day excursion from Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos, with hotel pickup and an expert English, French, and German-speaking guide.
Travelers can look forward to exploring the picturesque Lasithi Plateau, enjoying local cuisine, and visiting key attractions like the Samaria Gorge and Agia Roumeli – Sfakia.
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Explore the Lasithi Plateau
Nestled within the heart of Crete, the Lasithi Plateau regularly enchants visitors with its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Travelers can explore this elevated basin, dotted with traditional windmills and ancient cave dwellings, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to discover the plateau’s pastoral charm and learn about its unique way of life.
The Lasithi Plateau offers a glimpse into the island’s past, showcasing:
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The iconic white-sailed windmills that have been used for centuries to pump water from the land.
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Ancient cave dwellings that were once home to the plateau’s hardy inhabitants.
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Traditional villages where visitors can experience the local customs and sample authentic Cretan cuisine.
Visit the Samaria Gorge
As part of the Lasithi Plateau tour, visitors can explore the renowned Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and most breathtaking hiking trails, spanning over 16 kilometers through Crete’s stunning natural landscape.
This challenging but rewarding trek takes travelers through a dramatic, narrow gorge, passing by ancient Byzantine shelters, towering limestone cliffs, and a variety of indigenous flora and fauna.
Along the way, hikers will encounter the iconic ‘Iron Gates‘, a 200-meter-high passage between two massive rock walls.
While the hike can be strenuous, the breathtaking scenery and sense of accomplishment make it a highlight of the Lasithi Plateau experience.
Admission to the Samaria Gorge is included in the tour price.
Boat Trip to Agia Roumeli
After exploring the Samaria Gorge, the Lasithi Plateau tour includes a scenic boat ride to the village of Agia Roumeli, situated at the southern end of the gorge. This 30-minute journey by boat allows visitors to admire the stunning coastal scenery and reach the tranquil village of Agia Roumeli.
The boat trip offers three key benefits:
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It provides a unique perspective of the Samaria Gorge from the sea.
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It allows for a relaxing break after the challenging hike through the gorge.
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It connects the tour with the seaside town, enabling further exploration of the region.
The boat ticket is included in the tour cost, making it a convenient and seamless part of the Lasithi Plateau experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of the Tour?
The tour is a full-day excursion, lasting the entire day. This includes hotel pickup, sightseeing, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The duration allows for a thorough exploration of the destination and all its included activities.
Is Food and Water Provided During the Boat Trip?
The tour includes a boat ticket to Agia Roumeli – Sfakia, but food and drinks are not provided during the boat trip. Travelers are responsible for bringing their own food and water for the boat portion of the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?
Passengers are allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages on the tour. The tour includes a souvlaki, pita, and soft drink, but any additional food or drinks are at the passenger’s own expense.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There is no minimum age requirement for participants on this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join, though parents should consider the physical demands of the activities when deciding if the tour is appropriate for young children.
Can I Leave the Tour Group During the Day?
Participants can generally leave the tour group during the day, but it’s important to coordinate with the guide and return on time for the scheduled activities and transportation. Wandering off without informing the guide is not recommended for safety and logistical reasons.
Recap
This full-day excursion from Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos offers a captivating journey through Crete’s breathtaking landscapes.
Explore the iconic Lasithi Plateau, hike the renowned Samaria Gorge, and relax on a boat trip to Agia Roumeli.
With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and a focus on local cuisine, this adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into Crete’s rich cultural heritage.
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