From Chania: Samaria Gorge Hiking tour

If you’re looking to get away from typical tourist spots and truly experience the wild beauty of Crete, this Samaria Gorge hiking tour from Chania might just be what you need. It promises a full day of adventure—hiking through Europe’s second-longest gorge, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and strolling through traditional villages—delivered with comfort and expert guidance.

One of the best parts? You can do all of this at a reasonable price of just $47 per person. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and a self-paced approach that allows you to take your time and soak it all in.

A potential drawback? It’s a long day, so it might not be suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or who prefer shorter, more relaxed excursions. But if you’re fit, adventurous, and eager for authentic experiences, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s best suited for active travelers wanting to see the “real” Crete beyond beaches and towns.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth start and finish to your day.
• Self-paced hiking with guides available enhances safety and flexibility.
• Inclusions like hotel pickup, escort, and round-trip travel boost value.
• Entry fees for Samaria and the boat are paid separately in cash, so plan accordingly.
• The long duration of 14 hours makes it ideal for full-day adventurers.
• Swim opportunity at Agia Roumeli adds a refreshing break from the hike.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Seamless Transportation and Early Start

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from multiple locations around Chania, including well-connected spots such as Platanias, Kolymvari, and even central Chania. This flexibility is a real bonus, meaning you won’t need to worry about navigating to a meeting point.

The air-conditioned bus makes the 1.5-hour drive to the Omalos Plateau surprisingly comfy—especially considering how early the day begins (around 7 a.m.). The early start is perfect if you want to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, which is especially helpful during the busy summer months.

The Omalos Plateau: A Calm Before the Storm

Upon arrival, you’ll get a brief breakfast—a much-needed fuel-up before the big hike. This 30-minute stop at Omalos offers a chance to enjoy the mountain air and get your gear ready.

The plateau itself is a quiet, scenic spot with views of the White Mountains, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. It’s also where your guide and group will gather, ensuring everyone is prepared and well-informed.

Hiking the Samaria Gorge: A 6-Hour Trek

The core of this experience is the self-paced hike through Samaria Gorge, which lasts approximately six hours. As the second-longest gorge in Europe, it’s distinguished by towering cliffs, rugged terrain, and a sense of stepping back into nature’s untouched beauty.

Guides, like the ones mentioned in reviews, are present throughout the hike—they’re there for safety, reassurance, and sharing local insights. One reviewer highlighted, “The escort was always behind us, making sure everyone was okay and offering tips,” which can make a big difference on a challenging trail.

Expect the trail to be well-marked but uneven, with shaded sections under the White Mountains and open stretches where the sun beats down. It’s advisable to bring sturdy shoes and sun protection. The route is physically demanding but rewarding—think dramatic rock formations, the sound of rushing water, and the occasional glimpse of local flora and fauna.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Village of Samaria and Lunch at Agia Roumeli

Halfway down the gorge lies the old village of Samaria, which features a tiny pharmacy, a telephone for emergencies, and mule transport options. It’s a great spot for a quick break, especially if you need to recover or want to appreciate its quiet charm.

After exiting the gorge at Agia Roumeli, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to enjoy lunch and unwind. Many travelers rave about the opportunity to swim in the clear waters of the beach right after the hike, so bring your swimwear and towel. You might find the atmosphere here relaxed and scenic, perfect for a refreshing dip.

The Return Journey: Ferry and Relaxed Finishing Touches

From Agia Roumeli, you’ll hop on a ferry for a scenic 30-minute ride across the Libyan Sea, which adds a fun and scenic element to the day. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the coastline and nearby islands, making it more than just a transportation method—it’s part of the experience.

The final stretch involves an 1.5-hour bus ride back to Chania, during which you can reflect on the day’s highlights and share stories with fellow travelers.

The Practicalities: Costs and What to Bring

While the price of $47 covers transportation, guide escort, and hotel pickup, keep in mind that entrance to Samaria (€5 per adult) and the boat ticket (€13 per adult, lower for kids) are paid in cash on-site. Reviewers appreciated the simplicity of this setup, though bringing enough cash is advisable.

To make the most of your day, pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, and reusable water bottle—there are natural springs along the route for refills. Remember, open-toed shoes and pets are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone with heart problems.

Authentic Touches and Insider Tips

One reviewer mentioned the village of Samaria as a quiet spot where you might see the endangered krikri, adding an authentic touch to the journey. The guides are knowledgeable about local wildlife and history, enriching your understanding of this rugged landscape.

Plus, the self-paced nature allows you to stop and enjoy the views, take photos, or simply soak in the silence of the mountains—something guided group hikes can sometimes miss due to strict pacing.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s wild side. It balances adventure, comfort, and cultural exploration, all packaged into a full day that feels both invigorating and rewarding. The inclusion of transportation, guidance, and free time at the beach provides excellent value for the price.

It’s perfect for active travelers eager to see the stunning scenery, enjoy some physical challenge, and experience local villages without feeling rushed. However, it does demand stamina and a basic level of fitness, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full-day hike.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love outdoor adventures and want to explore Crete beyond the beaches, this tour is ideal. It’s also for travelers comfortable with long days, willing to carry essentials, and looking to connect deeply with nature and local culture. For those with limited mobility or seeking a more relaxed experience, this might not be the right fit.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see one of Crete’s most impressive natural landmarks while enjoying the comforts of organized logistics and expert guidance.

FAQ

Do I need to bring money for additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need cash for the entrance fee to Samaria (€5 per adult) and the boat ticket (€13 per adult). These are paid in cash on-site.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Children can participate, especially if they’re comfortable with long walks. However, the physical demands and duration mean it’s better suited for active kids over 5-6 years old who can handle the length of the hike.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses). Pack swimwear, a towel, snacks, and a refillable water bottle. Also, consider bringing a camera to capture the scenery.

Can I swim at Agia Roumeli?
Absolutely. The beach after the hike is a popular spot for swimming, so don’t forget your swimsuit and towel.

What is the length of the entire day?
The tour lasts around 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening, making it a full-day commitment.

Is it easy to find the meeting points?
Yes, with multiple pickup locations around Chania, including central spots and resorts, the pickup process is designed to be convenient for most travelers.

To sum it up, this Samaria Gorge tour offers a substantial dose of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and local culture—all at a fair price. It’s best for those eager to explore actively, enjoy scenic landscapes, and take a break from the usual tourist trail. If you’re fit and ready for a day full of hiking, swimming, and authentic small-village charm, this experience will deliver on many levels.

You can check if your dates are available here: