Discover one of Crete’s most breathtaking natural landmarks on a full-day hiking adventure from Chania to the famous Samaria Gorge.

Start your day with pickup from a selected meeting point near your accommodation and travel by comfortable, air-conditioned coach to the Omalos Plateau, high in the White Mountains.

Before beginning the hike, enjoy some free time for an optional breakfast and receive useful information from your local mountain guide about the route, safety guidelines, water points, estimated walking times, and the meeting arrangements in Agia Roumeli.

Begin your approximately 16 km hike from Xyloskalo and descend through the spectacular landscape of Samaria National Park. Walk through pine and cypress forests, rocky riverbeds, freshwater springs, and impressive cliffs as the scenery changes throughout the route.

Keep an eye out for the park’s native flora and wildlife, including the famous Cretan wild goat, known locally as the Kri-Kri.

One of the highlights of the trail is the iconic Iron Gates, where the towering rock walls narrow dramatically around the path, creating one of the most impressive sections of the gorge.

The hike usually takes around 4 to 6 hours, depending on your walking pace and physical condition. Walk at your own comfortable speed while your mountain guide remains available along the route to offer assistance and support when needed.

Please note that the Samaria Gorge hike is physically demanding and includes uneven, rocky, and occasionally steep terrain. Moderate to good fitness and suitable hiking footwear are strongly recommended.

At the end of the trail, arrive in the remote seaside village of Agia Roumeli. Enjoy free time to cool off with a swim in the Libyan Sea, relax on the beach, or enjoy lunch at one of the local tavernas.

Later in the afternoon, board the ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sougia. From there, meet your coach and relax on the return journey to Chania and your original pickup area.