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Samaria the Lazy Way, from Chania
Sougia, GR
66% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Picturesque village of Sougia
- Boat tour along the coastline
- Walking through Samaria Gorge
- Stunning views of the steep mountains
- Exploring the unspoilt village of Sfakia
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Duration 11 hours
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Local Guide included
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Air-conditioned vehicle
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Boat ride to Agia Roumeli
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Hike through Samaria Gorge
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Crete with the Samaria the Lazy Way tour. This adventure starts with a picturesque village pickup before heading to the charming village of Sougia. From there, a scenic boat ride along the coastline takes you to the stunning Village of Agia Roumeli, nestled amidst the majestic White Mountains. Spend your time here exploring the world-renowned Samaria Gorge, with its awe-inspiring Iron Gates. Marvel at the crystal blue waters of the Libyan Sea as you venture on foot through this incredible natural wonder. As the sun begins to set, hop back on the boat and return to the port of Chora Sfakion, where our coach awaits to take you back to Chania. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Samaria the Lazy Way.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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15 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
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Featured Reviews
Viator
Jul 24
We really enjoyed this hike, it was very beautiful and easy if you have hiked before. Make sure to bring some good shoes and water! I wanted to provide more information on how the actual day will go since it was a little confusing. Thankfully me and my husband were able to figure it out with another couple doing the lazy way with us.
1. They pick everyone up from the hotels separately and meet at the main bus before 8am, they will text you around 5pm on the day before your actual pick up time to get to the main bus. For us our pick up time was 6:10am
2. Once you’re on the main bus you drive to the first stop and the tour guide goes over some information for the hike (for the regular hike there’s more info than for the lazy way) also if you get motion sickness you should bring medicine. One girl on our bus got sick during the ride up the mountains.
3. Take a picture of the info the guide gives you and of the map, it will tell you the round way tickets you need to buy for the ferry boat
4. Once you are at the first stop you can get off the bus and use the restroom and get a snack or drink for 10min
5. You will return to the bus (the hikers doing the entire trail will start the hike at this point). They transferred us to another bus at that stop that takes you to the boat. This takes 1hr and you’ll get to see more views and goats on the road
6. You will get to the boat around 9:00, there is a ticket line and the boat leaves 9:15. We barely made it on the boat because the ticket line was very long. We were the first couple from our group to buy tickets and the boat was ready to depart so the ticket worker told the rest of the group that they could also buy tickets on the boat.
7. The boat ride is about an hour to get to the island and once you are there you can start the hike or grab food/drink at one of the stores in town or use a restroom. There is also food, drinks and a restroom on the boat.
8. Walk through the town and the trail will be more on the right side of the island there are signs that lead you to the trail
9. The hike to the gorge is about 2.5miles from the first trail sign. You will reach the entrance of the park before the gorge and will pay entry fee there. Keep the ticket since you will need to show them it on the way out of the park
10. You can walk more if you want but we tuned around to eat lunch and enjoy the town some more
11. There is a beach so if you want to relax after the hike bring a swimsuit and towel
12. The whole group will meet up at 4:30 at a designated taverna this place is a little hidden but on the right side of the island near where there trail started with signs to direct you to it
13. You will check in with the tour guide at 4:30 since she has a list of the hikers
14. The actual boat back to Sougia leaves at 5:30 make sure to confirm the name of the boat from your ticket as there may be multiple boats docked on the island
15. You can board before 5:30 to get a good spot on the boat
16. Once you are back on the boat you will find your original bus and your tour guide will make sure you’re on her list again
17. The ride back everyone is tired so you can take a nap but they will take you back to your original pick up spot or hotel. We got back to our hotel around 8:30pm
It’s a very long day for sure but it was definitely worth it and a lot of fun!
Viator
Jun 23
Our “tour guide” Patti wasn’t much of a tour guide when it came to the “Lazy Way” of experiencing Samaria Gorge. On the way to the ferry, she briefed the regular hikers, and then, at the end of her briefing, she checked travel vouchers. At this time she told us “Lazy Way” travelers the details of our trip. She spoke so quickly my family and I were unsure of all but two details each, and only learned the most important information by collaborating with other travelers, who were also hazy on what Patti had said. Hikers were able to take a photo of a paper with important information on it. There was no such helpful document for the “Lazy Way” travelers. My family and I made the best of the trip, but would definitely not recommend the “Lazy Way” tour, or Patti as a guide for it.
Viator
Jun 22
While it was nice to have transportation to and from the gorge that is about the only positive thing I can say about this tour. I was one of two people doing the “easy way” and we were basically left to our own devices. We weren’t given any instructions on how to walk the gorge in the way we wanted to all the tour guide said was where to meet at the end of the day. I would’ve preferred some sort of tour for the “easy way” but I’m not exactly sure what I paid for.
Viator
May 22
In actuality, I changed my mind while on the bus and instead decided to hike the Gorge! At 66 years of age, I hike frequently but usually only 3-6 miles on moderate terrain. I wore knee compression sleeves and sneakers, not hiking boots, but bought a hiking pole for only 15 euros at the entry station to Samaria Gorge. That proved to be a huge help not only for handling the rocky path, but also for the multiple stream crossings. Since the hike was almost all downhill, it wasn’t so much an aerobic workout as much as one on the knees, ankles and feet. No matter, because the scenery was breathtakingly beautiful throughout, and I’m sure will stand out as one of the most memorable hikes I’ve ever taken.
Viator
Sep 20
très bien organisé, au départ de la cané , réservation par internet , du jours au lendemain, différent lieux de rdv du matin, au plus proche du lieux d’hébergement, chauffeur au top, ainsi que la guide, a l heure au départ, ainsi que le retour
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Samaria the Lazy Way, from Chania
Experience the breathtaking Samaria Gorge with a seamless journey from Chania, including a scenic boat ride and expert local guidance.
Included
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In-vehicle air conditioning -
Local Guide
Excluded
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Entrance: 5€ children under 15 year old is free -
Boat: 18€ / children under 12 year old is 9€
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
Hotel pickup is offered subject to customer(s) hotel location.
What to expect
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Sougia is a small seaside village in south Crete, 70 kilometres south of Chania.
35 minutes
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Surrounded by the The White Mountains, the village sits at the seaside entrance to the Gorge of Samaria. There are many walking paths on this remote south coast of Crete, with experienced walkers enjoy the small foot paths next to the sea, with breath-taking views of the steep mountains plunging into the crystal blue waters of the Libyan Sea.
240 minutes
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he Gorge of Samaria lies on the southern side of Chania prefecture and is a wonderful place for hikers. Visitors from all over the world attempt trekking at this gorge. In 1962, Samaria Gorge had been declared a National Park for the survival of the endangered species kri-kri, the rare Cretan wild goat that lives only in Samaria. Apart from the kri-kri, many other endemic and rare species of flora and fauna live in this gorge.
120 minutes
Admission Not Included
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Sfakia
The unspoilt and historical village of Sfakia is built on the hill slopes, overlooking the natural bay. It is situated around the White Mountains range and the famous Samaria Gorge. Sfakia lies 72 km south east of Chania town.
60 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Camping is not allowed in the gorge, you can’t spend the night there, light a fire, smoke (you can only do so at the special milestones on the trail), you can’t hunt, set traps, bring guns or animals along, you can’t uproot plants and you are of course not allowed to bathe in the river. -
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Please notice that extra charges may apply per person or in total of the group for pick-ups from hotels- villas- airbnb outside the proximity of our tour selected pick route. In that case we can provide round trip transfer for customer(s) convenience ad-hoc quoted as per location of customer(s)' property.
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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The duration of the hike is at least 5 hours and that’s why you must wear proper footwear with socks, a hat, light-colored clothing and sunscreen. You must have a bottle of water with you (there is drinking spring water along the trail), a light snack, if you wish, and of course a walking mood.
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WE KINDLY ASK ALL VISITORS TO COMPLY WITH THE RULES OF THE STATE PARK IN ORDER TO ENSURE A SAFER HIKE, AS WELL AS TO HELP PRESERVE THE UNIQUELY RICH FLAURA AND FAUNA OF OUR COUNTRY.
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We must keep the lavatories clean for the sake of our own health and we mustn’t throw paper inside the toilets.
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You must hold on to the ticket issued at the entrance of the gorge until the end of the hike, in order to go through control at the exit gate.
Provided by MTM TOURISM GREECE OE
What our experts say
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Wear sturdy shoes for hiking. -
Pack a light snack and water.
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Explore local tavernas in Agia Roumeli.
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Plan to return before sunset.
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Check weather conditions before you go.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Samaria the Lazy Way, from Chania offers an unforgettable tour experience, taking you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Crete. The adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or a nearby point. After a scenic 1.5-hour drive, you will arrive at the picturesque village of Sougia. From there, a boat will take you along the breathtaking coastline to the charming village of Agia Roumeli, nestled at the entrance of the famous Samaria Gorge.What to expect?
During your time in Agia Roumeli, you'll have ample opportunity to explore the renowned Samaria Gorge, from its exit to the magnificent Iron Gates. The walk stretches for 3 kilometers from the village to the gorge entrance, with an additional 1.5 kilometers to reach the mesmerizing Iron Gates. This point marks one of the most captivating spots in the entire gorge. Take in the awe-inspiring natural beauty, with steep mountainsides plunging into the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea.Who is this for?
This tour caters to adventurers and nature enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, Samaria the Lazy Way offers an accessible and enjoyable experience for all. Immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes, rich flora, and fauna as you traverse the renowned Samaria Gorge. This tour is perfect for individuals, couples, and even families looking to create lasting memories amidst the stunning beauty of Crete.Why book this?
Embark on this remarkable tour to discover the wonders of Samaria Gorge without exhausting yourself completely. The "lazy way" approach allows you to soak up the beauty of the gorge at a comfortable pace while ensuring you still experience its highlights. Marvel at the steep cliffs, lush vegetation, and the captivating Iron Gates without pushing yourself to the limits. With convenient pickup and drop-off, professional guides, and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour offers a stress-free and memorable experience in the heart of Crete.Good to know
While embarking on this tour, it's essential to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen. Stay hydrated and bring a refillable water bottle to quench your thirst throughout the adventure. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views and picturesque villages along the way. The tour spans approximately 660 minutes, providing ample time to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Samaria Gorge and its surroundings.Reviews
Previous travelers have raved about the extraordinary beauty and tranquility of Samaria the Lazy Way. They marveled at the stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and the sense of peace that envelops this natural paradise. Reviews often highlight the convenience of the tour, allowing visitors to experience the best of Samaria Gorge without aching muscles or exhaustion. Travelers appreciated the expertise of their guides, who shared fascinating insights into the flora, fauna, and history of the area. Overall, visitors were left in awe of the breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments experienced on this immersive tour.
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