Samaria Gorge Hiking Day Tour

€52
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Discover the most Amazing Hiking Tour from Heraklion!

The Samaria Gorge is a popular tourist destination located on the Greek island of Crete. It is one of the longest gorges in Europe and offers stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit place for nature enthusiasts and hikers. it is situated in the western part of Crete, in the regional unit of Chania.

The Samaria Gorge is situated within the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) of Crete. It begins at the Omalos Plateau, approximately 43 kilometers southwest of Chania, and extends all the way to the village of Agia Roumeli on the southern coast of Crete, where it meets the Libyan Sea. The total length of the Samaria Gorge is approximately 16 kilometers (about 10 miles), making it one of the longest gorges in Europe.

The Samaria Gorge offers an unforgettable and rewarding experience for nature lovers and hikers, providing an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of Crete’s rugged landscape and witness the marvels of its unique flora and fauna.

Free cancellation 24 h before the tour

  • Hiking required at various times
  • Although there is water stop in the gorge, its advised to bring your water with you for the way
Included
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Pick-up & drop-off transportation
  • Professional certified guide
  • Ferry tickets
Excluded
  • Lunch & Drinks
  • Entrance fee to the gorge (10 euros)
  • 15 hours
  • Hiking, Nature
  • Duration 15 hours
  • Type of Tour Hiking, Nature, Walking Tour
  • Difficulty Challenging
  • What You May Need Hiking shoes, Camera, Sun hat, Sunscreen, Beach towel, Swimwear, Recyclable water container
  • Included Day Trips And Excursions
  • Not Included Culinary Sailing Or Boat Tour

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Tour Plan

01
Transportation
The tour starts early in the morning to make the most of the day. On the day of the tour, our air-conditioned bus will pick you up from your hotel in Heraklion, and then you'll be transferred to the Samaria Gorge.
02
Arrival at Samaria Gorge
Once you arrive at the gorge, you'll start your guided hike. The tour guide will lead you through the gorge, providing information about its history, geology, and the surrounding flora and fauna.
03
Hiking Experience
The hike through the Samaria Gorge is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. The trail starts at Xyloskalo, the northern entrance, and descends down through rocky terrain, with the imposing walls of the gorge rising on both sides.
04
Flora and Fauna
The Samaria Gorge is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to Crete. Visitors can see various Cretan herbs, wildflowers, and tree species, including the rare Cretan Wild Goat (Kri-Kri), which can sometimes be spotted during the hike.
05
National Park
The gorge, along with the surrounding White Mountains, forms the Samaria National Park, which was established in 1962. The park's primary purpose is to protect the unique flora and fauna found in the area.
06
Iron Gates
One of the most iconic sections of the gorge is the "Iron Gates" (Sideroportes), where the narrowest part of the gorge is flanked by towering cliffs on both sides, reaching up to 300 meters (about 1,000 feet) in height.
07
One-Way Hike
The hike is generally a one-way route, starting at Xyloskalo and ending at Agia Roumeli, located on the southern coast of Crete along the Libyan Sea.
08
Return Journey
In the evening, our bus will be waiting to transport you back to your original starting point in Heraklion.

Tour Location

Location info

Samaria Gorge – Crete’s Majestic Natural Wonder
Located in the southwest of Crete, within the White Mountains National Park, Samaria Gorge is one of Europe’s longest and most impressive gorges. Stretching approximately 16 kilometers, it begins at an elevation of 1,230 meters at Xyloskalo and descends to the Libyan Sea at Agia Roumeli. The trail traverses through dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and the renowned "Iron Gates," where the gorge narrows to just 3 meters wide and rises nearly 1,000 meters high. ​


The gorge is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species and the rare Cretan wild goat, known as the Kri-Kri. This protected area is part of the Natura 2000 network, emphasizing its ecological significance. ​

Typically open from May to October, the gorge offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. The descent takes approximately 5 to 7 hours, concluding at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, accessible only by foot or boat. ​

Ready for the ultimate hiking challenge? Book your Samaria Gorge adventure today and explore Crete like never before!

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