16 km Samaria Gorge Hike from Rethymno Bali and Panormo

13 hours Free cancellation

16 km Samaria Gorge Hike from Rethymno Bali and Panormo, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Hike the famous 16 km Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest canyon

Admire towering 350 m cliffs and dramatic natural scenery

Walk at your own pace through a UNESCO-protected National Park

Spot rare wildlife like the Cretan wild goat Kri-Kri

Swim and relax in the seaside village of Agia Roumeli after the hike

Extreme Sports 4WD Tours Sports Lessons ATV Tours Additional fees Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 13 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–20
Guide: Greek, English
Operated by: Bali Travel

Ages: Infants (0–4 years) · Children (5–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
Included: Insurance Coverage
Included: Detailed Map of the gorge

Not included

Not included: Gratuities: Lunch & Personal Expenses
Not included: Entrance fees: Entrance Fee Gorge: 10€
Not included: Boat Ticket Long Way 15 €, kids 5-12 years 7€

Itinerary

Your journey begins with a drive up to the Omalos Plateau at an altitude of 1,140 meters. From the entrance, you embark on a self-paced, 16-kilometer hike through the UNESCO-protected National Park of Samaria Gorge, taking roughly 5 to 6 hours beneath towering cliffs and shaded forest canopy. As you descend through the canyon, you will refill at natural mountain springs, keep an eye out for the rare Cretan Kri-Kri wild goat, and pass through the iconic "Iron Gates", the narrowest section of the gorge at just 3 meters wide. The trail leads directly to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, offering ample time to cool off with a swim in the Libyan Sea and enjoy lunch at a local taverna. In the late afternoon, a scenic boat ride takes you along the southern coastline to Chora Sfakion, where your bus waits for the return trip. Hiking Samaria Gorge is an essential Cretan adventure, offering an unforgettable look into the island's wild heart.