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Samaria Gorge Hike from Rethymno - Europe’s Longest

Staring from
Rethymno
May - October
Tuesday - Thursday - Saturday
Languages
English Guide (Trekking Guide)
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Flexible Cancellation Policy
Plans change and it is totally fine! All bookings can be modified or cancelled with a full refund, 48 hours before the departure date with no extra charge. Send your email to hello@islandspy.gr with your request.

Trip highlights

Greek village of Agia Roumeli, Chania, Crete, Greece
Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea
Samaria People Trek
Comfortable transportation from Rethymno with guide assistance
Samaria Group Trek
Hike through Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe
Agia Roumeli with people
Pass through the famous “Iron Gates” cliffs
Libyan Sea, Agia Roumeli Crete
Scenic boat trip from Agia Roumeli back to Sfakia

Overview

Discover one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of Crete on this full-day adventure from Rethymno to the legendary Samaria Gorge. Located in the heart of the White Mountains, Samaria Gorge is the longest gorge in Europe and one of the island’s most iconic hiking experiences.

Travel comfortably by bus with an experienced guide and begin your journey from the Omalos Plateau, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Walk through forests of ancient pine trees, pass rivers, wooden bridges, and the famous “Iron Gates” — the narrowest point of the gorge with cliffs rising hundreds of meters above you.

After approximately 16 km of hiking, reach the peaceful seaside village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea. Enjoy free time to swim, relax, or have lunch by the beach before boarding the boat to Sfakia. Your unforgettable nature adventure concludes with the return bus transfer to Rethymno.

Duration of trip
13 hours
Mobile ticketing
Simply present your digital voucher to either the guide or the driver, and they will be ready to assist you accordingly.
Pickup - Available
Pick-up and drop-off service are both included in the price of your booking. Our pick-up service covers different points, including hotels and bus stops. After making your booking, we will reach out to inform you about the specific location and time for the pick-up that is convenient for your accommodation.
Free cancellation
In order to obtain a full refund, it is necessary to cancel your reservation at least 48 hours before the scheduled event or booking.
Covid 19 requirements
Currently, there are no specific requirements for participating.

Tour schedule

6:15-7:30

Morning Pickup

Pickup takes place from selected points in the Rethymno area between approximately 06:15 and 07:30, depending on your location.

Journey to Omalos Plateau: Relax on the comfortable bus ride through the beautiful Cretan landscapes as your guide shares useful information about the region and the hike ahead.

Stop at Omalos: Before entering the gorge, there is a short stop at Omalos village for coffee, breakfast, or last-minute supplies.

Start of the Samaria Gorge Hike: Begin your hike from Xyloskalo, the entrance of Samaria Gorge National Park. The trail passes through forests, rocky paths, natural springs, and spectacular cliffs.

The Iron Gates: One of the most famous points of the hike is the “Iron Gates,” where the gorge becomes extremely narrow while towering cliffs rise dramatically on both sides.

Arrival at Agia Roumeli: After completing the hike, arrive at the seaside village of Agia Roumeli. Enjoy free time for swimming, relaxing on the beach, or having lunch at a traditional seaside tavern.

Boat Trip to Sfakia: In the afternoon, board the boat from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia while enjoying beautiful views of Crete’s southern coastline.

Return to Rethymno: From Sfakia, board the bus for the return journey back to your selected drop-off point in Rethymno area.

20:00 - 21:00

Return approximately between 20:00 and 21:00, depending on traffic and pickup location.

Extra information

Included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected points in Rethymno
  • Transportation in air-conditioned bus
  • Professional hiking escort / guide
  • All legal taxes
Not Included
  • Samaria Gorge entrance ticket:
    • Adults (18+): €10
    • Children & teenagers (0–17): Free
    • Seniors (65+): Free
  • Boat ticket (Agia Roumeli – Sfakia):
    • Adults & children (12+): €17
    • Children (5–11): €8.50
    • Infants (0–4): Free
  • Food, drinks, sunbeds, and personal expenses
What to bring
  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Swimsuit and beach towel
  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Water or empty bottle to fill from the natural springs
Know before you go
  • Some experienced and faster hikers might complete the trek in a shorter time, while others may take longer, especially if they stop to enjoy the scenery, rest, or take photographs.
  • Boat Ticket Purchase: Tickets are available for purchase at Agia Roumeli, with our guide providing advice. It is advisable to bring cash since poor signal reception may prevent some boats from processing card payments.
  • Individuals interested in personal trekking gear should consider bringing walking sticks and a backpack for the hike, although they are not mandatory. While there is a shop at the entrance of Samaria Gorge, it's important to note that the selection may be limited.
from 35 €
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Why choose us

24/7 Customer Support
Our team of trusted local agents know their way inside and out! When you most need it, lean on them. No need to wait for a response for days on end, we possess the knowledge, we answer immediately.
Time Saving Search Online
Experience Greece beyond the tourist trail with the best travel tips and recommendations in our arsenal! Why spend your precious vacation time just planning? Let us do the heavy lifting for you!
More Tours, Less Hassle
Don't waste your time scrolling through endless tour listings online! Quit stumbling onto the same tours over and over again! Let Island Spy spy out the best of Greece for you!
Flexible Cancellation Policy
Plans change and it is totally fine! All bookings can be modified or cancelled with a full refund, 48 hours before the departure date with no extra charge. Send your email to hello@islandspy.gr with your request.

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