Description
The Samaria Gorge Hiking tour starts very early in the morning. Our bus and tour guide will pick you up at around 05:30 am. The return is around 20:00. We use only the best boats, buses, and guides for our hiking tours and activities. And yes, the tour also includes a boat trip from Agia Roumeli to the Chora Sfakion.
The bus will take us to the west of Crete at the village of Skaleta, we will stop for a snack or a coffee. Then, we will continue on to Omalos Plateau. It’s an impressive landscape on the top of Lefka Ori (White Mountain). Omalos is a short distance from the entrance of the Samaria Gorge. There, with the help of our tour guide, we will prepare for the hike. Our tour guide will give you all the necessary information. They will check if you have everything you need with you and explain the procedure to you.
Our descent into the Samaria Gorge begins from Xyloskalo. That is the name of the entrance point, which means wooden steps.
The Hiking Tour of Samaria Gorge
Samaria gorge is at a height of 1250 meters. It is the longest in Europe. 18 km, from 2 to 40 meters wide and with a depth of 250 to 600 meters. Samaria challenge is the favourite hike of many walkers visiting Crete. It usually takes 6 to 7 hours to pass the gorge.
It is an area of natural beauty, with ever changing views and rare species of flora and fauna. You might even meet species such as the famous wild Cretan goats Kri Kri.
The Iron Doors
The rocky path follows the route of the ancient river Taras. It also passes through forests of old cypress and pine trees. Along the way, you’ll reach the ancient village of Osia (Santa) Maria with its stone huts. You’ll also encounter the churches of Afendis Christos and Agio Nikolaos. As you continue, you’ll traverse fantastic, wild, high, and steep cliffs. Don’t forget to try the fresh cold water from the springs along the path. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the narrow passage of Samaria Gorge, known as Sideroportes (Iron doors). These cliffs soar 300 meters high but are only a few meters wide.
Agia Roumeli
After passing through the Iron Gates, you exit the Samaria Gorge National Park. Following a 4 km walk, you’ll arrive at the fishing village of Agia Roumeli. Here, you can dine at one of the local taverns. Additionally you can take a swim in the clear waters of the Libyan Sea.
In the afternoon, we’ll board the boat to Chora Sfakion. From there, you’ll take your bus for the return trip. The bus follows the scenic route of Imbros Gorge and the Plateau of Askifou.
Very Important:
Our hiking tour guide will accompany you inside the gorge and stay with you throughout the journey. The guide will ensure everyone’s safety and make sure they have everything they need to complete the hike. They will always be the last to exit the gorge and are responsible for all participants. In case of an emergency, the guide has direct contact with the local authorities.
The local authorities at Samaria are very careful about weather conditions. If the weather is bad, they close the gorge to visitors to ensure their safety.
Essentials:
Bring comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles for a good grip.
Pack a swimming suit, a towel, a hat, sun glasses, and a sun cream. Please bring an extra pair of socks also.
Bring a big bottle of water.
Optional and Advices:
Do not bring too much money; however, almost every business accepts bank cards.
Try to limit your luggage; nevertheless, too much weight is always a problem.
Before you leave, leave your valuables at your hotel; however, bring your personal medication.
Remember, you must always carry a copy of your passport with you.
Booking Information
On the ticket for the Samaria Gorge Tour, you’ll find information about the meeting point. We carefully choose the nearest and safest pickup spot according to your hotel location.
We provide a Google pin and a photograph of the meeting point. This will ensure you can easily recognize and find it easily.
Our team is available around the clock to assist you. Feel free to reach out to us anytime. We also offer an emergency telephone number. This will ensure a stress-free experience from the start of your tour or activity.
Pricing
We are very careful with our pricing. We dislike hidden extras. What you read is what you get. If you need further information please contact us. The Samaria Hiking Tour from Agia Pelagia – Malia is €39 for an adult, and €19.5 for a child.
Not Suitable
Samaria hiking is not for everyone. However, it’s challenging and might worsen health issues. So, consult your doctor if you have heart, breathing, or mobility problems. Also, pregnant individuals near their due date or with severe outdoor allergies might not enjoy it. Before you go, consider your fitness level and any health concerns you have.
