In southwest Crete in Chania region, you’ll find the breathtaking Samaria Gorge. Designated as a National Park in 1962, it’s now a world Biosphere Reserve. The 16km gorge is one of Europe’s longest canyons, and a walk through it is unforgettable. With its soaring cliffs and narrow passageways, it’s a place of rare, raw beauty. Some of the trees found in the gorge are over a thousand years old and have been witness to some incredible events in Cretan history.

Hikes through the gorge usually begin at a height of 1230m, just south of the village of Omalos, ending up by the sea at Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea. It’s steadily downhill all the way through some of the most beautiful scenery to be found anywhere in Greece.

During April and May, the valley is alive with wildflowers, and you may even spot the endangered wild goats leaping across the rocks. You’ll pass deserted farmhouses, walk by cool streams, and a deserted town. The gorge is open to walkers from May to October.

It takes on average between four and six hours to walk the gorge, and it’s great to take your time to enjoy the stunning scenery.

Samaria Gorge excursion schedule:

• Departure time: 07:00 & 07:30
• Arrival at Omalos, gorge entrance (Ksiloskalo): 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Distance: 16 km, 5-6 hours walking. Optional minibus transport
  from the exit of the gorge to Agia Roumeli (2 km more)
• Arrival in the village of Agia Roumeli where you can rest, have lunch
  and swim on the beach
• Departure for Paleochora by ANENDYK ship: 17:30
• Arrival in Paleochora: 19:00

Lazy way:

• Departure from Paleochora by ANENDYK ship: 08:30 (every day)
• Arrival at Agia Roumeli: 10:00
• Distance 2km dirt road, 1 hour walk to the entrance of the gorge
• Rest and enjoy refreshments at the canteen
• Admission payment: 5€
• Walk up to the “iron gates” of the gorge, 2km, about 1-1,5 hour walking
• Return from Agia Roumeli to Paleochora by ferry: 17:30

• 1 bottle of water (inside the gorge there are springs with drinking water)
• Sunscreen, swimsuit, hat, towel
• Comfortable sports shoes with socks

Price includes:

• Transportation by bus or minibus
• Ship ticket
• Map

Not included:

• Gorge entrance fee (5€ for adults, free for kids up to 16 years old)
• Meal
• Optional expenses

• Booking and payment at least 1 day in advance
• The trip depends on the weather and the number of people
• In case of cancellation all money is refunded
• The trip is not suitable for people with foot health problems, pregnant women
  and very young children or infants
• Animals are not allowed inside the gorge