The island will surprise you with the variety of terrain, from mountains and gorges to valley meadows and seaside bluffs ending on calming sandy beaches. Take advantage of this natural landscape that will stimulate your senses while having this hiking hiking trip!

About the gorge:
The gorge is located in southwest Crete in the prefecture of Chania. It was created by a small river running between the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) and Mt. Volakias. There are a number of other gorges in the White Mountains. While some say that the gorge is 18 km long, this distance refers to the distance between the settlement of Omalos on the northern side of the plateau and the village of Agia Roumeli. In fact, the gorge is 16 km long, starting at an altitude of 1,250 m at the northern entrance, and ending at the shores of the Libyan Sea in Agia Roumeli. The walk through Samaria National Park is 13 km long, but you have to walk another three km to Agia Roumeli from the park exit, making the hike 16 km. The most famous part of the gorge is the stretch known as the Iron Gates, where the sides of the gorge close in to a width of only four meters and soar up to a height of 1,100m (3,610feet).

The gorge became a national park in 1962, particularly as a refuge for the rare kri-kri (Cretan goat), which is largely restricted to the park and an island just off the shore of Agia Marina. There are several other endemic species in the gorge and surrounding area, as well as many other species of flowers and birds.
The village of Samaria lies just inside the gorge. It was finally abandoned by the last remaining inhabitants in 1962 to make way for the park. The village and the gorge take their names from the village's ancient church, Óssia María ["the Bones of Mary"].

Itinerary:
Day 1: A car or minibus drive takes us to Ksiloscalo area, the entrance of Samaria gorge, which is the largest gorge in Europe and one of the most beautiful in Crete. From Heraklion, it takes around 2,5 hours to get there. From Chania city 45 minutes and from Rethimno around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The tow hour journey takes place through a well shaded path, under cooling fragrant pine forest. Day one we conclude at the small village of Agia Roumeli. After 6 hours (an average) of hiking, the opportunity of a relaxing swim rises, not to be missed. There is a choice of camping or hotel in Agia Roumeli. A close to nature experience or well deserved shower will be a definite treat.

Day 2: After breakfast, the returning journey starts towards Chania, Rethimno or Heraklio. The authentic rural lifestyle of the villages will be unveiled to you during a few quick stops.

Price Includes: All accommodations, 1 dinner, all land transport throughout the trip, services of the tour leader and local guide and entrance fees in Samaria National Park.

Not Included: Transport to and from Crete, picnic lunches during the walks, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks and everything that is not listed above.

Enjoy-crete is not responsible for any accidents or mishaps directly or indirectly related to the tour.

Period: May to October due to Samaria gorge restrictions (The gorge is not open prior May and after October).

Available Dates: Any date upon request from May to October. It is not possible to book earlier due to national park been closed.

Transport: The groups will be travelling by our own air-conditioned car or mini-bus.

Accommodation: You can either use your own tent in Agia Roumeli or a local hotel.

Food: Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be taken at the hotel or any local taverna.

Group Size: 3-15 participants.

Difficulty: The Samaria hike (around 16km) offers a moderate trek with a maximum of 6 hours walk on rocky footpaths. Group will be going trough different terrain such as cross-streams in the gorges and on the coast, sand and shingles for short distances.  It is advised that participants should be in good physical condition. Experience is not essential.

Equipment: Daypack (approx. 25-35lt), trekking shoes, fleece jacket, windproof jacket, water bottle (at least 1.5lt of water), hat, sun cream, sun glasses, swimming suit.

Notes: Please bear in mind that the itinerary can be altered for numerous reasons beyond our control (e.g. harsh weather, trail conditions) to ensure the safety and the well being of the group. The final hiking selection is left up to the guide. Temperature during summer months (June - early September) are between 29oC - 42oC. Sun cream and hat is a must!

Price: 200€. Book now!