Description of the excursion of Samaria Gorge walking!

Firstly we walk through a deep ravine that’s bathed in sun yet shaded by trees, shrubs and impressive rocks. Descend from often misty mountains on stony hiking paths, cross crystalline springs, walk over fascinating rocky landscapes, admire breath-taking cliffs and take breaks near gurgling fountains. Samaria gorge is the longest gorge in Europe, extending over 16 kilometres (13km until the exit. There you can take the small bus for the last 3km untill the village).

It begins at the plateau of Omalos deep in the mountains and ends at the little beachside village of Agia Roumeli on the Southern coast of the island (facing the African coast!).

Α unique life experience!

As you walk, you’ll admire the changing flora full of pine trees, flowering plants and herbs. At some point after hiking three quarters of the way you’ll come across a fascinating abandoned stone village now used by the National Park Authorities. And if you’re lucky, you’ll also come across wild Cretan goats known as Kri-Kri and get to admire birds of prey hovering in the skies above.

After a break in the little lazy village of Agia Roumeli, hop on a boat that takes you the village of Chora Sfakion or Sougia, where the coach will take you back to our bus and Chania-Kissamos side of the island.

Detailed Program

– Early morning start and hotel pick-ups if applicable

– Breakfast stop for 20-30 minutes at Omalos(breakfast not included in the price)

– Buy the tickets at the entrance of the gorge (5 €)

– Crossing of the Samaria Gorge (4-6 hours)

– Free time in Agia Roumeli, good for a meal or swim

– Boat from Agia Roumeli to Sougia or Chora Sfakion pre-purchased by our escord (11 €)

– Return around 8.30 pm at Chania Center (9:30 at Kissamos area)

Info

This tour is not recommended for:

– persons with health problems (e.g. heart disease, breathing problems, fatigue, weak knees),

– pregnant women

– small children

– the physically challenged

Samaria gorge closes to the public at the end of October, but may close earlier if autumn rains make some cliffs unstable or damage the path (not uncommon in October).

The gorge will also be closed on rainy days during the summer (when there is a danger of rock falls) and also will be closed at the very high temperatures.

Thousands of people may cross the Samaria Gorge every day, but you do not need to worry about overcrowding. All these walkers do not start together and as they all go in one direction there will be times when you will think you are almost alone!

There are wardens along the way (in radio contact with each other) who will help you in case of trouble or injury.

Along the way you will find well-maintained springs with crystal clear water to fill your bottles!

There are toilets in several places and plenty of rubbish bins.