Private Hike to Samaria Gorge, Chania

Explore Chania's Samaria Gorge for a refreshing hike along the river bed, a must-do for any traveler to the region! This 18-kilometer-long gorge is the largest in Europe, and its stunning beauty makes it the most visited trail in the country. On this guided full-day private hiking activity, you'll start at Omalos Plateau and finish at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, covering 9 miles (14 km). Take in the amazing views and enjoy a recovery swim or lunch at the end of your journey.

Your driver will come to your hotel to pick you up in the morning; then, you'll embark on your journey to Omalos Plateau, located roughly an hour away from Chania. If you'd like, once you've arrived, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or breakfast before you enter Samaria. Feel free to take the lead on your hike and set your own pace. With your attentive guide trailing closely behind, rest assured that help is always at hand should you need anything during the hike. 

The first half is mainly a rocky stairway down. To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, proper footwear is absolutely essential. Regular shoes simply won't cut it, so make sure to equip yourself with appropriate hiking shoes or boots to tackle the terrain confidently. On the next section of the trail, you'll cross the river by stepping stones. There'll be plenty of restroom breaks and opportunities to refill your water bottle from natural springs on the way. So you can take in the stunning scenery and stay hydrated and refreshed throughout your adventure. The journey continues down through huge rising cliffs and several wooden bridges until you reach the end.

The gorge ends up at the village of Agia Roumeli. Your guide will be waiting for you to give you your ferry tickets at the designated meeting point. Here, you'll have plenty of time to rest while waiting for the ferry. You can have a recovery swim at the beach or have lunch in one of the many tavernas you'll see around. After the one-hour ferry trip, the bus will be waiting for you at the port to take you back to Chania and drop you off at your hotel.