Full Day Tour Samaria Gorge From Chania

The Full Day Tour of Samaria Gorge from Chania offers an immersive experience into one of Crete’s most iconic natural sights. Priced at $36.12 per person, this tour runs approximately 14 hours, making it a full-day adventure that combines scenic hiking, cultural highlights, and leisure time. It includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and an air-conditioned vehicle to keep you comfortable during transfers.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy moderate physical activity and want to explore Europe’s longest gorge, which measures 16.5 kilometers from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli. While the price covers most of the experience, travelers should plan for additional costs such as boat tickets (€13) and gorge entrance (€5) if they wish to visit the gorge independently. The tour begins early at 5:30 am, ensuring a full day of exploration, but the five-hour travel time means a long day on the road.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day experience with transport, guide, and scenic hiking
• Visit the Samaria Gorge, Europe’s second-longest gorge, stretching 16.5 km
• Starts early at 5:30 am with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Includes stops at Omalos for breakfast and at Agia Roumeli for beach relaxation
• Additional costs include boat tickets (€13) and gorge entrance (€5)
• Suitable for moderate physical fitness levels

Starting the Day at Omalos for Breakfast

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel, followed by a transfer to Omalos, the starting point of the hiking adventure. Here, you have about an hour before setting off to the gorge, giving time to enjoy breakfast and prepare for the day ahead. Omalos serves as a practical and scenic staging area, nestled in the mountains, setting the tone for the day’s journey.

This early start means you’ll beat the larger crowds that arrive later, but it also means an early wake-up. The convenience of hotel pickup ensures a smooth beginning, saving you the hassle of navigating Crete’s roads on your own.

Exploring the Samaria Gorge National Park

The highlight of the tour is the descent through Samaria Gorge, which is renowned as the longest in Europe and one of Greece’s most striking landscapes. Arriving around 7:00 am, the group begins a six-hour hike along the 16.5 km route from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli.

The hike starts with a descent down 600 wooden steps, revealing the majestic scenery of the White Mountains and the massive ravine. As you walk, you’ll pass by St. Nicolas Church, built on the ruins of an ancient temple, and then reach the narrowest part of the gorge, known as Portes or Iron Gates. The trail offers a mix of shaded areas and open views, making it an engaging trek.

While the hiking is moderate, the terrain can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The guide provides commentary throughout, sharing insights into the area’s geology, flora, and history.

Visiting the Village of Agia Roumeli

The end of the trail brings you to Agia Roumeli, a small village by the Libyan Sea. Here, you can relax on the beach, enjoy a lunch at a seaside tavern, or take a swim in the clear waters. This break is a perfect chance to unwind after the hike, with options to explore the village or simply soak up the sun.

Most group members choose to spend around an hour here before continuing the day’s journey. The village provides a peaceful setting, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Mediterranean scenery and local cuisine.

Leisure Time in Agia Roumeli

After the hike and a period of relaxation, the tour includes transportation to the next stop. The journey back involves a five-hour travel time, including a boat ride from Agia Roumeli to the final destination, where the vehicle awaits to return to Chania.

While the boat ticket costs an additional €13, many find it offers a scenic and refreshing way to end the day, with views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. The entire trip is designed to balance active exploration with moments of calm and leisure.

Logistics: Transportation and Group Size

The tour features air-conditioned transportation and a local guide to help navigate the hike and provide context about Crete’s natural beauty. Group sizes are capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and manageable atmosphere, even during popular times.

The early start at 5:30 am allows for a less crowded experience, although the beginning of the descent can be busy when multiple coaches arrive simultaneously. The modest physical fitness requirement makes this tour accessible to most participants who are comfortable with moderate walking.

Cost Breakdown and Additional Expenses

While the $36.12 price covers hotel pickup, guiding, and transport, it does not include the boat tickets (€13) or gorge entrance (€5). Food and drinks, including lunch in Agia Roumeli, are also not included, giving flexibility to choose options based on personal preference and budget.

Travelers should plan ahead for these supplementary costs to fully enjoy the experience without surprises.

The Experience in Context: What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive itinerary, starting early to beat crowds, and the opportunity to experience the full length of Samaria Gorge. The guided approach enriches the hike with insights, and the stop at Agia Roumeli offers a relaxing conclusion with beach access and local eateries.

The positive review highlights the well-organized nature of the trip and the stunning beauty of the gorge. Although it can be busy at the start, the overall experience remains rewarding for most participants. The moderate physical requirement makes it a great choice for those seeking an active day out.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy scenic hikes and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. It suits those interested in nature, geology, and landscapes, and who want a full-day, guided adventure with transport included. The early start and long day require good planning and stamina, but the rewards are substantial.

Those looking for a combination of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation by the sea will find this tour well-balanced. It’s also perfect for visitors who prefer the convenience of hotel pickup and guided commentary without the hassle of organizing transport or hikes independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and air-conditioned transportation.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is an option to buy lunch in Agia Roumeli.

How long does the hike take?
The hiking portion lasts approximately six hours for the 16.5 km route through the gorge.

What additional costs should I expect?
Boat tickets (€13) and gorge entrance (€5) are not included in the base price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical effort involved suggests a moderate fitness level is recommended.

What is the start time?
The tour departs at 5:30 am, allowing a full day of exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and possibly a swimsuit for swimming at Agia Roumeli.

Can I cancel or change this tour?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed; cancellations due to bad weather may be rescheduled or refunded.

How big are the groups?
Group size is limited to 50 travelers, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere.

Is there a guide on the hike?
Yes, a local guide is included to provide commentary and support during the hike.

What makes this tour worth it?
The combination of guided hiking, breathtaking views, and leisure time at the beach makes this a memorable and well-rounded experience for active visitors to Crete.