The Samaria Gorge Day Trip Hiking Tour offers an opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most captivating natural wonders. Spanning 18 kilometers through the Samaria Gorge, this guided excursion showcases Crete’s diverse landscapes, from the abandoned village of Santa Maria to the dramatic Iron Gates. Hikers can spot the elusive Kri-kri goats and refresh at Agia Roumeli beach after their trek. While the journey may be challenging, the breathtaking scenery and culture make it a truly unforgettable experience. Those seeking an adventure that combines physical activity with natural and historical discovery won’t want to miss this remarkable day trip.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Sfakia.
Key Points
- A 16-hour excursion through Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Crete and Europe, priced between €48.00 to €43.20 per person with discounts up to 10%.
- The 18-kilometer hike features indigenous plants, Kri-kri goats, and visits to the abandoned village of Santa Maria and the ‘Iron Gates’.
- Includes free pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned bus transfers, and multilingual guides, but excludes the gorge entrance fee, meals, and boat ticket.
- Suitable for adults aged 13-99 and children 4-12, but not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with health issues, or wheelchair users.
- Tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Overview of the Tour
The Samaria Gorge Day Trip Hiking Tour is a 16-hour excursion that takes visitors through one of the longest gorges in Crete and Europe, offering breathtaking views of the island’s natural wonders.
Priced from €48.00 to €43.20 per person (with up to 10% off), the tour includes free pick-up and drop-off service, air-conditioned bus transfers, and professional, multilingual guides.
Hikers will traverse the 18-kilometer gorge, spotting indigenous plants, flowers, and the protected wild goats of Crete, known as Kri-kri.
The tour also includes a visit to the abandoned village of Santa Maria and the narrowest point of the gorge, the ‘Iron Gates.’
After the hike, participants can enjoy a swim at the beach of Agia Roumeli and have lunch at local taverns.
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Highlights of the Experience
Hiking through Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe, offers breathtaking views of Crete’s diverse and indigenous flora and fauna.
Visitors can spot the protected wild goats of Crete, known as Kri-kri, as they traverse the 18-kilometer trail.
The tour also includes a visit to the abandoned village of Santa Maria and the narrowest point of the gorge, the ‘Iron Gates.’
After the hike, travelers can enjoy a refreshing swim at the beach of Agia Roumeli and indulge in a local lunch at the nearby taverns.
This day trip provides an exceptional opportunity to take in Crete’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Included and Excluded Services
The tour package includes a free pick-up and drop-off service from hotels, an air-conditioned bus transfer, and professional multilingual tour guides, along with insurance coverage.
However, the entrance fee to Samaria Gorge, as well as any meals, drinks, and the boat ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia, aren’t included in the price. This means that you will need to budget for these additional costs separately.
The exclusions are clearly stated upfront, allowing customers to plan their expenses accordingly and avoid any unexpected charges during the tour.
Participant Suitability
Participants of the Samaria Gorge Day Trip Hiking Tour must meet certain age and physical fitness requirements to ensure their safety and comfort during the hike.
The tour is suitable for adults aged 13 to 99 and children aged 4 to 12. However, it’s not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with high blood pressure. Babies under 1 year old are also not allowed on the tour.
Participants should be prepared to hike for an extended period and bring appropriate attire, including comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
The tour operators reserve the right to refuse entry to those who don’t meet the physical requirements or bring prohibited items like sandals or strollers.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPreparation and Recommendations
Proper preparation is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Samaria Gorge hiking experience. Participants should bring a variety of essential items, including comfortable, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen to protect against the elements.
Plus, a daypack, camera, and cash for any incidentals or purchases along the way are recommended. It’s important to note that certain items, such as sandals, flip-flops, and baby strollers, aren’t allowed on the hike.
Customer Reviews
According to the information provided, the Samaria Gorge Day Trip Hiking Tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews.
Customers have praised the tour for its:
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Breathtaking natural scenery and unique Cretan wildlife
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Knowledgeable and multilingual tour guides
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Convenient pick-up and drop-off service
One reviewer described the hike as ‘an unforgettable experience that showcased the stunning beauty of Crete,’ while another noted that the tour was ‘well-organized, informative, and exceeded all expectations.’
Pricing and Availability
The Samaria Gorge Day Trip Hiking Tour offers a range of pricing options, with tickets priced from €48.00 to €43.20 per person – a potential savings of up to 10%. This tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for maximum flexibility. The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, French, and German, catering to a diverse audience.
| Duration | Price per Person | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| 16 hours | €48.00 | – |
| 16 hours | €45.60 | 5% |
| 16 hours | €43.20 | 10% |
The tour’s availability and pricing make it an accessible and attractive option for those seeking to explore the natural wonder of the Samaria Gorge in Crete.
Cancellation Policy
The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility for those who may need to change their plans unexpectedly.
Some key points about the cancellation policy include:
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Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure for a full refund.
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No refunds are available for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour.
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Rescheduling the tour may be possible, subject to availability and any price differences.
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Travelers are encouraged to review the cancellation policy carefully before booking to understand their options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the hike. The tour operator does not allow pets due to safety concerns and the challenging terrain of the gorge. Hikers should leave their furry companions at home for this specific tour.
Is There a Limit on the Number of Participants?
The tour operator typically sets a maximum group size, often around 10-25 participants, to provide a more personalized experience. However, the exact participant limit may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour provider for specifics.
Can I Extend the Hike on My Own After the Tour?
Travelers can typically extend the hike on their own after the tour concludes, though they’ll need to follow any guidelines or restrictions set by the tour operator or local authorities. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific details.
Is There Any First Aid Available During the Hike?
The tour provides first aid support during the hike. There are trained guides accompanying the group who can provide basic medical assistance if needed. Participants should also bring any personal medications and be prepared for the physical demands of the trek.
Can I Purchase the Entrance Fee on the Day of the Tour?
The entrance fee to the Samaria Gorge can be purchased on the day of the tour. This allows flexibility for travelers who may not have purchased the fee in advance. However, it’s recommended to purchase the fee beforehand to avoid potential delays.
Recap
The Samaria Gorge Day Trip Hiking Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through one of Europe’s longest and most scenic gorges.
Hikers can explore the abandoned village of Santa Maria, encounter rare Kri-kri goats, and cool off with a refreshing swim at Agia Roumeli beach.
This comprehensive tour provides a perfect way to take in Crete’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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