Hiking the Samaria Gorge, Crete: All you need to know

Samaria Gorge, nestled within the Samaria National Park in the White Mountains of Crete, is a destination not to be missed. This renowned gorge takes its name from an abandoned village once thrived before the area was designated a national park in 1962, primarily to safeguard the endangered Kri Kri or Capra Aegagrus Cretica. Your journey through this biosphere reserve begins at Xyloskalo, situated at 1250 meters, and winds down to the charming coastal village of Agia Roumeli. As you plan your hike through the Samaria Gorge, you’ll encounter several options to consider. This article provides insights into these choices, offering guidance on selecting the one that best suits your preferences.

How to get to the Samaria Gorge, Crete?

Nestled in Crete’s White Mountains near Omalos village in the Chania region, lies the Samaria Gorge. To start, head to Xyloskalo, the designated starting point in Crete’s White Mountains, for this adventure.

Here are the common methods of transportation:

BY CAR

For those desiring flexibility and independence, selecting a car journey is an optimal decision. Well-connected roads guide you straight to the entrance of Samaria Gorge. Furthermore, paid and free parking options are available, with the free area just 250 meters from the starting point.

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Another option to get to the starting point of the Samaria Gorge, would be public transportation. It is not only eco-friendly but a cost-effective option too. Moreover, these buses are scheduled to match the opening hours of the gorge. For more information check their timetable and stations here.

ORGANIZED TOURS

If you prefer to go on a group tour instead of driving or taking the bus, then organized tours are what you’re looking for. A selection of tour companies offering a tour of Samaria Gorge can be found here. Choose your tour provider based on the location of your trip, whether it’s Chania, Rethymnon, or Heraklion. Additionally, you can explore other options here as well.

PRIVATE TOURS

That option is also available if you favour private tours over solo exploration. Here, you can browse through a selection of available tours.

BY BOAT

It is feasible to reach the Samaria Gorge by boat, specifically to the village of Agia Roumeli, which is approximately 3 km from the gorge’s endpoint. However, arriving by boat offers a different hiking experience than arriving by car or public transportation. Here, you can ascend to Xyloskalo and hike back or take a bus back to your initial city of departure.

Hiking options for Samaria Gorge

From Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli (one-way hike)

Travel by car, public bus, or taxi to Xyloskalo (the hike’s starting point) then hike down the Samaria Gorge to Agia Roumeli. From there, you have the option to ferry to either Sougia or Chora Sfakion. Afterwards, either return to Xyloskalo’s parking lot by bus if you arrive by car or catch a bus to continue your journey to your preferred city.

Note: If you arrive by car, the only way back to Xyloskalo is via Sougia.

From Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli or vice versa (out and back hike)

When contemplating an out-and-back hike, it’s essential to note that the one-way journey spans 13.3 km or 16 km to Agia Roumeli, involving significant elevation gain, typically taking 5-6 hours. Doubling the time and length of the round-trip hike is recommended for those who are exceptionally fit and prefer minimal breaks. Alternatively, another option is to split the hike by staying overnight at Agia Roumeli or Omalos, allowing for a more leisurely experience.

From Agia Roumeli to Xyloskalo (one-way hike)

An alternative is to take a ferry to Agia Roumeli (popular departures from Sougia, Loutro, or Chora Sfakion), then hike up to Xyloskalo, and afterwards, catch a bus to your desired city.

Samaria Gorge hike details

The length of the Samaria Gorge hike is 13.3 km. However, if you continue your hike to Agia Roumeli, the total length of the hike will be 16 km. The following details pertain strictly to the one-way hike through the Samaria Gorge.

My experience from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli (one-way hike)

Arrival and Ticket Purchase

This would be the first option, where you arrive at Xyloskalo, hike down the gorge to Agia Roumeli, take a ferry to Sougia, and then catch a bus back to Xyloskalo. This is probably the most popular and easiest option to organize. I also chose this option because of its variety and good organization. The other two options would be fine too if you have more time or are staying somewhere in the south.
Upon my arrival at Xyloskalo, Omalos, by car, I found free parking conveniently located just 250 m from the starting point. Alternatively, paid parking near the entrance is also available. At the cafe, tickets for the bus and ferry can be purchased. Despite my decision to buy ferry tickets at Agia Roumeli and bus tickets in Sougia, I advise purchasing them beforehand to secure your spot.

Hiking Experience and Return Journey

After obtaining tickets, proceed to the starting point to begin the descent. Starting at an altitude of 1,250 m, the hike leads down to the serene shores of the Libyan Sea in Agia Roumeli. Despite the initial challenging kilometers, featuring a descent of approximately 500 meters, the trail is well-maintained with stone steps and wooden handrails ensuring a safe journey.

The descent offers wooden footbridges, water springs, and pink oleanders along the trail. Additionally, caution should be exercised due to slippery rocks caused by water and heavy foot traffic. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Furthermore, water springs are available for refilling bottles, and restrooms can be found along the trail. Despite some parts offering shade, most of the trail is sunny, so be prepared.

Notably, the highlight is the impressive “gates” or “iron gates”, where the gorge narrows to just 4 meters and rises 500 meters into the air.

At the end of the 13.3 km hike, cafes/restaurants are available for stops. Alternatively, you can hike back up or continue to the coastal village, Agia Roumeli, adding another 3 km to the hike. After about 1 km, you can take a bus to the village for 2 euros. We chose this option to relax in the village before the ferry trip. Upon arriving in Agia Roumeli, you can easily locate the ferry boat ticket shop. The ferry departs daily at 17:30. We travelled from Agia Roumeli to Sougia, where buses are available to return to the starting point at Xyloskalo. After the ferry trip, bus tickets are available, but I recommend purchasing them at the beginning of the hike (at the paid parking lot).

Samaria Gorge tickets and opening

Entrance Price: 5 euros/person

Months: 1st of May – 31st of October

Hours: 7:00 am – 1:00 pm (or till 3:00 pm if you just want to walk for a few kilometres)

All visitors must leave the park no later than 6 pm.

The specified dates and hours may change due to unforeseen circumstances like bad weather. To stay updated, refer to this page for any changes.

Samaria Gorge Costs

Parking (Xyloskalo): 5 EUR / day or free (250 m from the paid parking)

Entrance to the gorge: 5 EUR / adult

Bus (from the end of the hike to the ferry, Agia Roumeli 2 km): 2 EUR

Ferry (from Agia Roumeli to Sougia): 15 EUR / pers

Bus (from Sougia back to Omalos, the parking lot): 4.8 EUR/ adult

Tips and amenities at the Samaria Gorge

• Purchase your bus & ferry tickets in advance (at the café located at Xyloskalo to secure your seat).
• Along the hike, you’ll find springs; however, it’s advisable to inquire at the entrance about their availability, as many tend to dry up towards the end of summer.
• Restrooms are available along the route.
• Mobile phones do not receive signals in the area.
• Please be aware that there is a coffee shop at the gorge’s entrance, but beyond that, you’ll only find restaurants and shops at the end of the hike.

What should you bring on your hike?

When preparing for a hike, it’s crucial to pack essentials to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Here’s a general list of items you should consider bringing on your hike:

• Hiking shoes
• Backpack
• Hat/Cap
• Water
• Food/Snacks
• Sunscreen/sunglasses
• Camera
• Swimsuit (for Agia Roumeli)

Conclusion

In conclusion, Samaria Gorge in Crete, Greece, offers an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning natural scenery. Whether you choose the classic Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli route or explore other paths, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Plus, Crete has plenty of other great hikes, like its highest summit, waiting to be explored. So, grab your gear and get ready for an outdoor experience you won’t soon forget!

More hiking and travel resources in Crete

• Crete’s Highest Peak: A Hike from Mygero Refuge to Mount Ida
• How to Get to Seitan Limania Beach in Crete
• Top Things to Do in Crete: History, Nature, and Culture Highlights
• Best Beaches in Chania Region, Crete: Must-Visit Spots
• Vai Beach, Crete: Europe’s Largest Palm Grove