Samaria Gorge Hiking Day Tour

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.

Here is more detailed information about the Samaria Gorge tour from Heraklion:

• 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.

• 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.

• 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. 

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Return Journey: In the evening, our bus will be waiting to transport you back to your original starting point in Heraklion.

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.

Discover this amazing tour with Discover D1!