Hiking Samaria gorge Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Samaria Gorge, a must-see hiking destination in Crete, Greece.

A brief summary of Hiking Samaria gorge

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Samaria Gorge, a must-see hiking destination in Crete, Greece.

Nestled in the heart of Crete, the Samaria Gorge offers an unforgettable hiking experience through stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and historical significance, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

4.4 Very good · 17 Google reviews
Address
Katsanevaki, Platanias 730 05

Getting there

Car

If you're traveling by car, head towards Platanias. Once you reach the village, look for road signs indicating the Samaria Gorge entrance. The main road will lead you to a parking area near the entrance of the gorge. Please note that parking fees may apply, so be prepared with some cash. From the parking lot, follow the signs to the entrance of the gorge, which is about a 10-minute walk.

Public Transportation

To reach Samaria Gorge using public transportation, take a bus from Chania's central bus station to the town of Chora Sfakion. Buses run regularly, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Chora Sfakion, you can take a local bus or taxi to the entrance of Samaria Gorge. Be sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time, as the frequency may vary. The last bus leaves Chora Sfakion in the early evening.

Hiking

Once you arrive at the entrance of Samaria Gorge, you will need to purchase a ticket, which typically costs around €5. After entering, follow the marked trails through the gorge. The hike is approximately 16 kilometers long and can take around 4 to 7 hours to complete, depending on your pace. Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes and carry sufficient water and snacks.

Return Options

At the end of your hike, you will reach the village of Agia Roumeli. From there, you can take a ferry to Chora Sfakion, where you can catch a bus back to Chania. The ferry ride costs around €12 and takes about 30 minutes. Ensure you check the ferry schedule, as the last ferry typically departs in the late afternoon.

Discover more about Hiking Samaria gorge

Overview

The Samaria Gorge, located in the breathtaking region of Crete, Greece, is a natural wonder that attracts hikers from all over the world. Stretching over 16 kilometers, this stunning gorge is framed by towering cliffs that rise as high as 600 meters, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. As you embark on your hike through this UNESCO World Heritage site, you will be captivated by the rich biodiversity that thrives in its unique ecosystem. The gorge is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, including the rare Cretan wild goat, known as the Kri-Kri. The route is well-marked and offers various points of rest, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings at your leisure. Along the way, you will encounter ancient ruins, remnants of the village of Samaria, and even a tiny church built into the rock face, adding to the historical allure of your journey. The hike culminates at the Libyan Sea, where you can take a refreshing dip to reward yourself for the trek. Samaria Gorge is not only a hiking destination but also a place to connect with nature and appreciate the stunning landscapes of Crete. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual walker, the gorge offers a remarkable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your visit to this enchanting island.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Hiking Samaria gorge on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hiking Samaria gorge, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Hiking Samaria gorge, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Hiking Samaria gorge

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate App-Based Travel Guide to Samaria Gorge, Greece

Discover Samaria Gorge with Evendo, your 100% free travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Plan your adventure effortlessly!

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • High-quality images and descriptions
  • Local tips and curated advice
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Maximize your travel experience to Samaria Gorge with Evendo. This free app offers comprehensive information on attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more, all in one place.

  • Interactive maps and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
  • History of Samaria Gorge and travel essentials
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Imagine embarking on a journey through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, Greece, with a trusty guide right in your pocket. Evendo is here to ensure you make the most out of your trip by providing detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. From the stunning Iron Gates to the ancient village of Agia Roumeli, this app covers it all.

With Evendo, you’ll have access to rich sets of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it incredibly easy to plan and organize your trip. Discover hidden gems like the Samaria Gorge National Park and popular dining spots such as Xyloskalo Restaurant. No more hassle of searching for things to see and do, and figuring out how to get there - Evendo has it all in one place.

In addition to this, the app allows you to easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences right from your device. Whether you want to explore the Samaria Gorge trails or enjoy a local culinary tour, Evendo simplifies the process, ensuring you have more time to enjoy your adventure.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.

Select Currency

Choose the currency you want prices to display in.