Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge
Traveler rating
3.3/5
Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge worth booking?
Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge is a 14-hour experience in Chania, Greece, from $45 per person. It scores 53 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.3/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 53 / 100
- Rating
- 3.3/5 (7)
- Duration
- 14 hours
- From
- $45 per person
If you are tired of walking but want photos for you Insta-followers, If you do not I feel like walking today but want to admire the terrific natural environment. If you want to live a superior experience without getting tired, then this excursion is made for you! We will arrive around 7 o’clock in the morning and after breakfast, you will have the chance to photo-shoot the entrance of the gorge and admire the creation of nature. The hiking guide will give you all the necessary instructions and then he will enter the gorge with the rest of the group (you will meet again at Agia Roumeli). The driver will take you to the small village of Sougia where you embark on the boat to reach the village of Agia Roumeli which is the exit of the gorge of Samaria. You can walk until the exit of the gorge, to the “Iron Gates” or swim and have a lunch there until you meet with the rest of the group.
What you get
About this experience
If you are tired of walking but want photos for you Insta-followers, If you do not I feel like walking today but want to admire the terrific natural environment. If you want to live a superior experience without getting tired, then this excursion is made for you! We will arrive around 7 o’clock in the morning and after breakfast, you will have the chance to photo-shoot the entrance of the gorge and admire the creation of nature. The hiking guide will give you all the necessary instructions and then he will enter the gorge with the rest of the group (you will meet again at Agia Roumeli). The driver will take you to the small village of Sougia where you embark on the boat to reach the village of Agia Roumeli which is the exit of the gorge of Samaria. You can walk until the exit of the gorge, to the “Iron Gates” or swim and have a lunch there until you meet with the rest of the group.
What's included
Included
- Pick up/drop off from a designated spot in Chania with an air-conditioned luxury bus
- All taxes, VAT inclusive
- English speaking hiking escort
Not included
- Admission to Samaria (5 € per adult, children free of charge) (optional)
- Round trip boat ticket (18 € per adult, 11 € per child 5-12 years old)
- Personal expenses, extra beverages or meals
- Customary tips to your driver and escort
What you'll see and do
Omalos
Early in the morning, you will be picked up from designated spots around Chania via a luxurious bus and reach the starting point of your tour in Omalos Plateau around 7am. The panoramic view of the gorge from the plateau is a photophile's delight, so after a short stop for pictures and/or breakfast, you will hop on the bus and depart for the traditional village of Sougia. It is there that you will hop on a boat and sail along the coast of Crete till you reach Agia Roumeli.
30 minutes here
Agia Roumeli
With ample time on your hands, you can start a short hike inside the gorge up until the Iron Gates, the narrowest part of the canyon, at only 4 meters (13 feet) width. Alternatively, at the beach at the end of the gorge, you can take a swim in the warm Libyan Sea and even enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch! At around 16:30 you will meet again with the rest of your group as well as your hiking escort returning from the hike of the gorge and board the boat back to the village of Sougia, where you will start your trip back to the place where you were picked up from.
360 minutes here
Samaria Gorge National Park
The gorge of Samaria is the biggest, most imposing and beautiful gorge in Greece and 2nd in Europe, and that is why it is internationally renown and mostly visited, since more than 300.000 people cross it each year. It has a wonderful landscape with rare geo-morphological formations. It is a unique biotope with particular richness in fauna and flora. It has a rich mythology as well, that goes back to prehistorical years and a tumultuous history during the difficult years of Crete. Samaria Gorge was proclaimed National Park of the White Mountains of Crete in 1962 when a couple of local families were still living in the village of Samaria, in the middle of the gorge and who were mainly busy with cattle-breeding and woodcutting. The surface covered at the time was 48.500 sqm., whereas the expansion of the Park today at 250.000 sqm. includes a remarkable part of the White Mountains.
360 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon
- Group size
- Up to 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Fantasy Travel
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes for the trek through the gorge
- It is advisable to bring the following items with you: sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
- It is important to stay hydrated, so bring a bottle of water (you can refill it in the gorge's springs) and a light snack (fruits etc.)
- You can swim at Agia Roumeli beach just after you exit the gorge so make you have a swimsuit and beach towel with you
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
7 verified traveler reviews for Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A unique experience!
Very nice experience, if you have the opportunity, take the trip. A mini Grand Canyon, with red cliff sides, bright springs and magnificent views.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Refund
The tour company were unable to run the tour or offer a suitable one that fitted our schedule. The company say they contacted you and we look forward to receiving our refund.
Response from the operator: Dear Jones I am sorry but we never say we will not procceed with refund.. we just explained you the followng message a day before As you are 24h before I will ask Viator to proceed with full refund and I will give the authority that means that we will give the refund So kindly before posting a bad review which is really important for us you can read the emails we send you and this was 18th of May I am really sorry to hear it! Please note that you have to proceed with full refund through Viator as the payment is in Viator we are the tour operator.. Kindly proceed 24h before! Thank you Ria
via Viator
6 hour round trip on the "EASY" Samaria Gorge
The "easy" walk in from the finish point of the gorge was good, mostly a stone path with many old ruins along the way. We never were able to find out what they were. The guide did not offer any information about the area on the way up or back, other than what to expect on the gorge walk. The description online said there was a photo opp at the trail head but there was not. Also, the beach area at the trail's end is a nice village with numerous restaurants and beach rentals. Be advised that this trip involves a 2 hour bus ride and a 1 hour boat EACH WAY, if you're doing the easy way.
via Tripadvisor
There is no such thing as...
There is no such thing as a beginners' hiking tour to samaria gorge. I was actually driven to sougia port to get the boat on my own to go to the entrance of the gorge. I had to walk about 3-4km through an abandoned village to find my way to the entrance of the gorge I was really scared that if something happened to me there were none around. And I was more scared when I entered the gorge so although I walked about 10km I saw very little of the gorge. Shame on viator that sells such misleading products. An advice use public transport they charge 14-15€ a return trip to sougia the boat costs 20€you pay it anyway.
via Viator
Samaria Gorge "the easy way" - Perfect for those like me that cannot hike 5/6 hours
I was initially scheduled to do the Imbros Gorge hike. I chose Imbros Gorge because I didn't think my knee would be able to cope with the 5/6 hour Samaria Gorge hike. However, due to bad weather my hike to Imbros was cancelled. I received a call from Ria at the tour company who offered me the alternative hike to Samaria but the easier route. I have to say I am truly grateful for the call from Ria as I booked the hike and had the most amazing day. So for the detail, I was picked up at 6am to join the main tour group. I separated from the group after the morning stop for breakfast. I was driven to Sougia where I took a ferry to Agia Roumelli (18 Euro return) where I walked to the entrance at the bottom of Samaria gorge. There is an entrance here for those that want to hike up the gorge rather than down. This worked out better for me as this was a more manageable route and I could walk as far into the gorge as I wished. It was so beautiful, the scenery was stunning. I hiked for 2 hours into the gorge over rivers through amazing walkways and then hiked 2 hours back. This was great as I got to see the gorge from both directions which you get to see things you didn't see on the way in. As majority of people start the gorge from the top I had the gorge all to myself for the first hour or so which was amazing. The entrance fee to the gorge is 5 Euros. After 4.5 hours walking I was very much looking forward to getting into the sea. I had enough time to spend an hour on the beach, then take a look around the village and have an hour for a meal one of the tavernas (there are a fair few to choose from). I returned back to Chania at 9pm. Overall this was a truly amazing day. I was so happy to have been able to take this option to see the gorge. I travelled on my own, I would recommend this to people of all ages. You still need to wear trainers or walking shoes as you need to keep an eye on where you are place your feet. In my opinion this tour is worth every penny for such a wonderful experience. Finally thank you to Ria who was extremely helpful to me.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback and your kind words! So glad to hear that you had a nice time and that you were satisfied with our services! Stay safe and enjoy the rest of your holidays!.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 14 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Fantasy Travel, who run 9 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 62.7.
See everything Fantasy Travel runsWhy this scores 53
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Chania.
How much does Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge cost?
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Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Chania usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge take?
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Plan for about 14 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Chania is not rushed.
Is Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 53 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.3/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Chania, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 14-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Chania can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Chania and add a light layer if any part of the 14-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Chania within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Chania?
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On Outty we rank every Chania experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cretan Safari – 4x4 Adventure to Preveli Beach with Lunch, Elafonisi & Falasarna Small Group Tour from Chania w/snacks, Half-Day Rethymno Quad Safari. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Chania?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Chania?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge?
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Included: Pick up/drop off from a designated spot in Chania with an air-conditioned luxury bus; All taxes, VAT inclusive; and English speaking hiking escort. Not included: Admission to Samaria (5 € per adult, children free of charge) (optional); Round trip boat ticket (18 € per adult, 11 € per child 5-12 years old); Personal expenses, extra beverages or meals; and Customary tips to your driver and escort. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 154 listed pickup locations in and around Chania. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Full-Day Beginner's Hiking Route Tour to Samaria Gorge?
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Across 7 reviews averaging 3.3 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities. The views and photo stops come up again and again. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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