Morning Pick up: We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning. Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.
Bus Drive to Omalos: 3 hours*
*There will be a short stop on the way for restroom and snack – 20 minutes
1st stop: The plateau of Omalos: Our stop before entering the gorge to make sure we are fully equipped or get some last suppliesbefore the trekking starts.
2nd stop: Samaria gorge – 4.5 – 5 hours: The impressive gorge, the longest in Europe, will give you many beautiful views of the surrounding White mountains, the small river that runs through the gorge and the Cretan wild goats kri-kri are some things that will leave our participants speechless during this unforgettable journey in Cretan nature. It's18km long and takes around 4,5hours to walk, always escorted by experienced tour guide.
Walking for 4-5 hours
3rd stop: Agia Roumeli: At the exit of the gorge by the Libyan Sea is the village of Agia Roumeli. A beautiful isolated village lying between the huge rocks of Samaria gorge and the Libyan Sea. There will be enough time for clients to enjoy a relaxing and refreshing swim at the beach and have some lunch at one of the local small taverns. Later on, we will embark the boat which will take us back to Chora Sfakion for our way back to our resorts.
Boat trip: 1 hour
4th stop: Chora Sfakioni: Arrival at the village, embarkation in the buses and return to the resorts.
End of the tour – Arrival at resorts: Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning. Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.
Return Bus Drive to Heraklion: 3 hours*
*There will be a short stop on the way back for restroom and snack – 20 minutes
Samaria gorge is the longest in Europe and one of the most impressive gorges in Greece. Follow the path through this famous gorge, marvel at its natural landscape, from the White Mountains to thousand-year-old forests and the river across it. At the end of the path, you will find the village of Agia Roumeli, where people can swim, relax at the beach, or find a tavern to have lunch within full view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion). [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]
Operating Days:
Every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Languages:
Dutch, English, French, German, Italian: All days // Polish: every Tuesday
Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort during the trek
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour
Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot: Boat Agia Roumeli-Sfakia: 13€ (adults), 6.80€ (children 4-9 yrs old), Gorge Entrance: 5€, Lunch or Snacks/Drinks (optional)
Tour highlights:
• Spend a day in Samaria Gorge on a challenging trek
• Enjoy the stunning natural beauty on the drive to the White Mountains
• Visit the village of Agia Roumeli and rest at a local restaurant after the long trek
• Swim at the beach of Agia Roumeli
Essentials to have with you: • Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit / Beach towel
• Comfortable hiking shoes (recommended)
• Individual Trekking Equipment (suggested) • Water
• Passport
REQUIRES GOOD STATE OF PHYSICAL HEALTH: not suitable for people with heart problems or serious health issues
Direction:
Southwestern Crete
Duration:
17 hours approximately - 500 km. (depending on where you get on - this estimate is from Heraklion city)
Overview:
Leaving early in the morning and driving along the north coastline, we stop for a short breakfast break (optional) outside Rethymnon, before we continue to Chania and on to the Plain of Omalos 1300 meters above sea level where we begin our descent into the gorge. The 18 km walk begins with our descent from Xyloskalo (800 meters) onto the floor of the gorge.
The gorge of Samaria is one of the longest in Europe, some 18 km (12 miles) and varies from 2-40 meters in width, with a depth of 250-600 meters. It takes 6-7 hours to walk through and it is essential for you to have the correct footwear as it is rocky in some places. However, the ever-changing view and the wonderful scents of pinewood and Cretan herbs make the walk pleasant and the effort worthwhile.
Following the path next to the river bed of Taras, with its crystal sparkling water, you pass the stone huts and Osia (Santa) Maria church in the deserted village of Samaria, through fantastic rock formations which have been carved and etched by thousands of years of winter torrents, taste the fresh cold water from the springs on these rocks, and finally get into the narrow pass of Sideroportes (Iron doors) that rises to a height of 300 meters but is only a few meters wide.
This brings you to the mouth of the gorge, which is on the shores of the Libyan Sea, at the small fishing village of Aghia Roumeli. Here you can taste a meal in one of the local taverns (optional) or enjoy a refreshing swim in the blue water of the Libyan Sea (optional) . From here you are transported by boat to Chora Sfakion, where we meet our coach for the return journey through the scenic route of Imbros Gorge and the Plateau, the villages of Askifou and Vrisses.
Definitely a trip for the adventurous and fairly fit. (At the beginning and end of the season a change of socks and a jacket would be essential).
Essential Tips for Conquering Samaria Gorge: A Hiker's Guide: To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, please keep the following points in mind: 1. Hydration is Key: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person to stay hydrated during the 18km hike.
2. Sun Protection: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing to shield yourself from the sun.
3. Comfortable Footwear: Use sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good grip to navigate the rocky terrain.
4. Snacks and Energy: Bring energy-rich snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars to keep you fueled along the trail.
5. Swimwear and Towel: Pack swimwear if you'd like to take a refreshing dip in the sea at the end of the hike.
6. Respect Nature: The gorge is a protected area, so please do not litter and stay on marked paths.
7. Listen to Guides: Pay attention to your tour guides and follow their instructions for a safe journey.
Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old (Free of charge)
Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below
PRICING
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel, Boat tickets, Lunch and island entrance. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).
PICK-UP TABLE
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, for your Samaria Gorge excursion, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
Samaria Gorge Excursion
Pick-up timetable
Pick up place
Pick up time
Sissi
04:40
Nikos hotel - Filipidis S/M
04:50
Malia church
04:50
Malia Bay - Malia Park - Sirens
04:55
Drossia - Kernos Beach - Ikaros Village
05:00
Alexander Beach - Ariadni
05:05
Cactus - Aktia
05:05
Mochos Cross
05:10
Stalis bus stop - Blue Sea
05:10
Nana B/S - Mediterraneo
05:15
Belvedere - Eri bus stop
05:15
Silva Beach - Pela Maria
05:20
National Bank - Chalkiadakis S/M
05:20
Koutouloufari (Esperides Resort)
05:20
Piscopiano well (pigadi)
05:20
Mathioudakis - Creta Maris
05:25
Hersonissos Village
05:25
Knossos Royal - Royal Mare - Annabelle
05:30
Cretan Village - Laguna - Chrissi Amoudia
05:35
Serita - Zorbas – Anissa - Bella - Lytos
05:40
Analipsi Beach Road
05:45
Analipsi Bus stop
05:50
Amirantes B/S
05:50
Gouves Beach Road
05:50
Gouves Cross-Lavris
05:55
Gournes Church
05:55
Rinela - Hatzis
06:00
Knossos Beach - Arina
06:05
Karteros - Amnissos
06:05
Astoria Hotel - Galaxy Hotel
06:15
Heraklion port - 18 Agglon Sq. (Koules fortress roundabout)
06:20
Natural History Museum
06:20
Talos Plaza (outside Envy Cafe)
06:20
Giofyros (Meliriton)
06:20
Amoudara
06:25
Agia Pelagia - Lygaria: Pick-ups are available for Samaria Gorge excursion from any accommodation in Agia Pelagia and Lygaria via shuttle service. A minimum of 2 adult participants is required.
06:25
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.
IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.
Samaria Gorge (the Long way)
from: €55.00
Tour info
Accompanied service
Schedule
Samaria Gorge excursion
Morning Pick up: We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning. Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.
Bus Drive to Omalos: 3 hours*
*There will be a short stop on the way for restroom and snack – 20 minutes
1st stop: The plateau of Omalos: Our stop before entering the gorge to make sure we are fully equipped or get some last suppliesbefore the trekking starts.
2nd stop: Samaria gorge – 4.5 – 5 hours: The impressive gorge, the longest in Europe, will give you many beautiful views of the surrounding White mountains, the small river that runs through the gorge and the Cretan wild goats kri-kri are some things that will leave our participants speechless during this unforgettable journey in Cretan nature. It's18km long and takes around 4,5hours to walk, always escorted by experienced tour guide.
Walking for 4-5 hours
3rd stop: Agia Roumeli: At the exit of the gorge by the Libyan Sea is the village of Agia Roumeli. A beautiful isolated village lying between the huge rocks of Samaria gorge and the Libyan Sea. There will be enough time for clients to enjoy a relaxing and refreshing swim at the beach and have some lunch at one of the local small taverns. Later on, we will embark the boat which will take us back to Chora Sfakion for our way back to our resorts.
Boat trip: 1 hour
4th stop: Chora Sfakioni: Arrival at the village, embarkation in the buses and return to the resorts.
End of the tour – Arrival at resorts: Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning. Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.
Return Bus Drive to Heraklion: 3 hours*
*There will be a short stop on the way back for restroom and snack – 20 minutes
Special offer
Description
Samaria Gorge Excursion (the Long way...)
Samaria gorge is the longest in Europe and one of the most impressive gorges in Greece. Follow the path through this famous gorge, marvel at its natural landscape, from the White Mountains to thousand-year-old forests and the river across it. At the end of the path, you will find the village of Agia Roumeli, where people can swim, relax at the beach, or find a tavern to have lunch within full view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion). [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]
Operating Days:
Every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Languages:
Dutch, English, French, German, Italian: All days // Polish: every Tuesday
Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort during the trek
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour
Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot: Boat Agia Roumeli-Sfakia: 13€ (adults), 6.80€ (children 4-9 yrs old), Gorge Entrance: 5€, Lunch or Snacks/Drinks (optional)
Tour highlights:
• Spend a day in Samaria Gorge on a challenging trek
• Enjoy the stunning natural beauty on the drive to the White Mountains
• Visit the village of Agia Roumeli and rest at a local restaurant after the long trek
• Swim at the beach of Agia Roumeli
Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit / Beach towel
• Comfortable hiking shoes (recommended)
• Individual Trekking Equipment (suggested)
• Water
• Passport
REQUIRES GOOD STATE OF PHYSICAL HEALTH: not suitable for people with heart problems or serious health issues
Direction:
Southwestern Crete
Duration:
17 hours approximately - 500 km. (depending on where you get on - this estimate is from Heraklion city)
Overview:
Leaving early in the morning and driving along the north coastline, we stop for a short breakfast break (optional) outside Rethymnon, before we continue to Chania and on to the Plain of Omalos 1300 meters above sea level where we begin our descent into the gorge. The 18 km walk begins with our descent from Xyloskalo (800 meters) onto the floor of the gorge.
The gorge of Samaria is one of the longest in Europe, some 18 km (12 miles) and varies from 2-40 meters in width, with a depth of 250-600 meters. It takes 6-7 hours to walk through and it is essential for you to have the correct footwear as it is rocky in some places. However, the ever-changing view and the wonderful scents of pinewood and Cretan herbs make the walk pleasant and the effort worthwhile.
Following the path next to the river bed of Taras, with its crystal sparkling water, you pass the stone huts and Osia (Santa) Maria church in the deserted village of Samaria, through fantastic rock formations which have been carved and etched by thousands of years of winter torrents, taste the fresh cold water from the springs on these rocks, and finally get into the narrow pass of Sideroportes (Iron doors) that rises to a height of 300 meters but is only a few meters wide.
This brings you to the mouth of the gorge, which is on the shores of the Libyan Sea, at the small fishing village of Aghia Roumeli. Here you can taste a meal in one of the local taverns (optional) or enjoy a refreshing swim in the blue water of the Libyan Sea (optional) . From here you are transported by boat to Chora Sfakion, where we meet our coach for the return journey through the scenic route of Imbros Gorge and the Plateau, the villages of Askifou and Vrisses.
Definitely a trip for the adventurous and fairly fit. (At the beginning and end of the season a change of socks and a jacket would be essential).
Essential Tips for Conquering Samaria Gorge: A Hiker's Guide:
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, please keep the following points in mind:
1. Hydration is Key: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person to stay hydrated during the 18km hike.
2. Sun Protection: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing to shield yourself from the sun.
3. Comfortable Footwear: Use sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good grip to navigate the rocky terrain.
4. Snacks and Energy: Bring energy-rich snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars to keep you fueled along the trail.
5. Swimwear and Towel: Pack swimwear if you'd like to take a refreshing dip in the sea at the end of the hike.
6. Respect Nature: The gorge is a protected area, so please do not litter and stay on marked paths.
7. Listen to Guides: Pay attention to your tour guides and follow their instructions for a safe journey.
Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old (Free of charge)
Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below
PRICING
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel, Boat tickets, Lunch and island entrance. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).
PICK-UP TABLE
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, for your Samaria Gorge excursion, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
Samaria Gorge Excursion
Pick-up timetable
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.
IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.
All you need to know about Samaria gorge in this article:
- Samaria's Gorge Geology
- Samaria's Gorge History
- Tips (What you will see, What to have with you, Download the App)
- Useful Information about Samaria Gorge
ARTICLE: Journey Through the Natural Wonders of Crete! A Dive Into the Mystical Samaria Gorge!
For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560
Need HELP? Check if we are online & chat with us!
We LOVE to answer questions...
This excursion is eligible for the Summer 2024 Special Offer Discount!
You don't need to do any further action! Discount will be calculated automatically, as you book...
Additional information
HER – Agia Pelagia, HER – Amnissos, HER – Amoudara (Gazi), HER – Analipsis, HER – Anissaras, HER – Gournes, HER – Gouves, HER – Heraklion City, HER – Hersonissos, HER – Karteros, HER – Kokkini Hani, HER – Koutouloufari, HER – Lygaria, HER – Malia, HER – Piskopiano, HER – Stalis, LAS – Sissi
AG.PEL: Alexander House Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: Ambelos Apts. (Main Road), AG.PEL: Bella Vista Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: Blue Bay (Reception), AG.PEL: Blue Bay Resort Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: EKO – Ag. Pelagia Gas Station, AG.PEL: Happy Cretan (Main Road), AG.PEL: Irida Hotel Apartments (Main Road), AG.PEL: Laundry, AG.PEL: My hotel (add it in the comments), AG.PEL: Nicolas Villas, AG.PEL: Out Of The Blue Resort (Entrance), AG.PEL: Panorama (Main Road), AG.PEL: Pela Mare Ag. Pelagia, AG.PEL: Peninsula Resort & Spa (Main Road), AG.PEL: Sea Side Resort & Spa (Reception), AG.PEL: Shell Gas Station, AMNIS: AKS Minoa Palace (Main Road), AMOUD: Agapi Beach (Main Road – Taxi Station), AMOUD: Apollonia Beach Resort & Spa (Main Road – Bus Stop), AMOUD: Candia Maris (Main Road), AMOUD: Creta Beach (Main Road), AMOUD: Dessole Dolphin Bay Resort, AMOUD: Neptuno Beach Resort (Main Road – Bus Stop), AMOUD: Roxani Hotel, AMOUD: Santa Marina (Main Road), AMOUD: Shell Gas Station, ANALPS: Analipsis church, ANALPS: Anthoula Village Hotel (Main Road), ANALPS: Atlantica Caldera Palace (Main Road), ANALPS: Europa Beach Hotel, ANALPS: Golden Star Hotel, ANALPS: Stella Village Hotel & Bungalows (Beach Main Road), ANISSR: Aldemar Knossos Royal (Main Road), ANISSR: Anissa Beach & Village Hotel, ANISSR: Annabelle Beach Resort, ANISSR: Bella Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Chrissi Ammoudia Hotel (main road), ANISSR: Galini Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Kosta Mare Palace Resort & Spa, ANISSR: Laguna Resort & Spa (Reception), ANISSR: Lyttos Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Mitsis Cretan Village (Reception), ANISSR: Mitsis Royal Mare Thalasso & Spa Resort (Main Road), ANISSR: Paradise Island Villas – (Crossroad), ANISSR: Serita Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Zorbas Village Hotel, GOURN: Gournes Church, GOUVES: Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort (Bus Stop), GOUVES: Aphrodite Beach Club (Beach Road), GOUVES: EKO Gas Station – (Lavris), GOUVES: Gouves Church, GOUVES: Hotel Diogenis Blue Palace (Beach Road), GOUVES: Marina Beach Resort (Beach Road), GOUVES: The Island Hotel (Beach Road), HERAKL: Capsis Astoria Hotel, HERAKL: Galaxy Hotel, HERAKL: Koules Fortress / 18 Agglon Sq. (Roundabout), HERAKL: Natural History Museum, HERAKL: Talos Plaza (outside ENVY cafe), HERSON: Albatros Spa Resort Hotel (Corner), HERSON: Creta Maris Beach Resort (Bus Stop), HERSON: Hersonissos Village, HERSON: Mediterraneo (Main Road), HERSON: National Bank, HERSON: Pela Maria Hotel, HERSON: Royal Belvedere Bus Stop / Eris Bus Stop, HERSON: S/M Chalkiadakis, HERSON: S/M Mathioudakis, HERSON: Silva Beach, KARTER: Karteros Corner, KOKHAN: Arina Beach Resort (Main Road – Bus Stop), KOKHAN: Knossos Beach Bungalows & Suites (Main Road), KOKHAN: Rinela Beach Resort & Spa (Main Road), KOKHAN: S/M Hatzis (Bus Stop #4), KOKHAN: Shotels Sunset Beach Hotel, KOUTL: Esperides Resort Crete, LYGAR: Angel Hotel (Main Road), LYGAR: Bellevue – National Road (Sign), LYGAR: CHC Athina Palace Resort & Spa (Reception), LYGAR: Lygaria (Main Road), LYGAR: My hotel (add it in the comments), MALIA: Amvrosia Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Drossia, MALIA: Ikaros Village Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Kernos Beach Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Main Church (St. Nektarios / Taxi Rank), MALIA: Malia Bay Hotel, MALIA: Malia Park Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: McDonalds Fastfood, MALIA: Nikos Hotel, MALIA: S/M Filipidis, MALIA: Sirens Hotel (Main Road), PISKOP: Pigadi Piskopiano (Well), SISSI: Bella Vista Apartments (Main Road), SISSI: Castello Village Resort (Main Road), SISSI: Grecotel Meli Palace (Main Road), SISSI: Kalimera Kriti Hotel & Village (Main Road), SISSI: Maritimo Beach Hotel (Main Road), SISSI: Sissi Bay (Main Road), SISSI: Sissi Church, SISSI: Sissi Mare Apartments (Main Road), STALIS: Alexander Beach Hotel & Village, STALIS: Blue Sea Beach Hotel, STALIS: Cactus Royal Spa Hotel, STALIS: I Resort Beach Hotel & Spa / Aktia Hotel (Main Road), STALIS: Mochos Cross Road (Bus Stop #29), STALIS: Nana Beach, STALIS: Stalis Bus Stop
Samaria Gorge
Walking Tour
Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Polish
1 Day
May, June, July, August, September, October