
Samaria Gorge & Agia Roumeli Beach from Heraklion, Crete
Set your sights on an unforgettable day with the Samaria Gorge & Agia Roumeli Beach Tour from Heraklion, Crete.
Highlights:
- Spend a day inSamaria Gorge on a challenging trek
- Enjoy the stunning natural beauty on the drive to the White Mountains
- Visit the village of AgiaRoumeli and rest at a local restaurant after the long trek
- Swim at the beach of AgiaRoumeli
- Transportation in Air-Conditioned bus
- Tour Guide during the trek
- Boat ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia
- Entrance in Samaria Gorge
- Lunch or Snacks/Drinks
- Boat ticket from AgiaRoumeli to Sfakia
- Tips
Morning Pick up:
We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning.
Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.
Bus Drive to Omalos: 3 hours
* There will be a short stop on the way for restroom and snack 20 minutes
1st Stop: The plateau of Omalos
Our stop before entering the gorge to make sure we are fully equipped or get some last supplies before the trekking starts.
2nd Stop: Samaria gorge 4.5-5 hours
The impressive gorge, the longest in Europe, will give you many beautiful views of the surrounding White Mountains, the small river that runs through the gorge and the Cretan wild goats kri-kri are some things that will leave our participants speechless during this unforgettable journey in Cretan nature. Its 18 km long and takes around 4.5 hours to walk, always escorted by experienced tour guide.
Walking for 4-5 hours
3rd Stop: Agia Roumeli
At the exit of the gorge by the Libyan Sea is the village of Agia Rumeli.
A beautiful isolated village lying between the huge rocks of Samaria gorge and the Libyan Sea. There will be enough time for clients to enjoy a relaxing and refreshing swim at the beach and have some lunch at one of the local small taverns.
Later on, we will embark the boat which will take us back to Chora Sfakion for our way back to our resorts.
Boat trip: 1 hour
4th Stop: Chora Sfakion
Arrival at the village, embarkation in the buses and return to the resorts.
End of the tour Arrival at resorts:
Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning.
Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of the journey back to the hotel will differ.
Samaria Gorge Tour: Trek Through Cretes Natural Marvel
Set out on an unforgettable journey with a Samaria Gorge tour that plunges you into the heart of Cretes wild beauty. This adventure takes you through the longest gorge in Europe, winding past towering cliffs, crystal-clear streams, and the rare kri-kri goats perched along rocky slopes. Your day begins with a scenic drive through the White Mountains, where every turn frames the rugged peaks against the sky. On arrival at the plateau of Omalos, you follow your tour guide through the Samaria Gorge for around 4.5 to 5 hours, discovering hidden corners of Cretan nature few travelers ever see. The trek ends at the Libyan Sea in Agia Roumeli, where you can swim, enjoy a local meal, and board a boat back to Chora Sfakion. This tour blends physical challenge with awe-inspiring landscapes, perfect for active travelers seeking adventure.
Tips for a Smooth Samaria Gorge Experience
To make the most of your Samaria Gorge adventure:
- Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water
- Pack a swimsuit and towel for a dip at Agia Roumeli
- Early morning pick-ups mean cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
- Not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious health issues
- Layered clothing helps, as mornings in the White Mountains can be chilly
Following these tips ensures a safe, comfortable, and fully enjoyable trek.
More Facts About This Experience
The Samaria Gorge stretches 18 km through Cretes White Mountains, home to the endangered kri-kri goat and wild herbs unique to the island. The gorge and its surrounding villages have appeared in Greek travel documentaries and adventure shows, and its a top Instagram spot for breathtaking canyon shots. Agia Roumeli, at the gorges exit, is famous for sunsets over the Libyan Sea and local taverns featured in travel blogs. The areas rugged terrain and wildlife make it a living natural museum, blending culture, history, and adventure.
Complementary Activities Nearby
Enhance your day with a visit to Day Tour to Elafonisi Beach from Heraklion, a Gramvousa and Balos Tour, or sampling local Cretan dishes in Agia Roumeli. Exploring mountain villages or relaxing in Chora Sfakion completes the experience.
Who Would Enjoy This Experience
Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy hiking, photography, and nature. Families with older children may also appreciate the trek, while anyone seeking a mix of physical activity, culture, and stunning landscapes will love this Samaria Gorge tour.