Self Guided Samaria Gorge Hike in Crete, Greece (Updated MAy 2024!)

The Samaria Gorge hike is the most popular hike in Crete, and for good reason! This one-way hike is jaw-droppingly beautiful and ends in a quaint Greek town. Many folks will do a guided tour but you definitely do not need one. Keep reading for more information to help plan your trip.

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Summary of your Samaria Gorge Hike

Trail Distance: 10 miles or 16 kilometers
Elevation Gain: Downhill hike
Terrain Rating: Medium
Navigation: Very Easy (well-marked every 20-30 minutes)
Hike Time: 4-6 hours
Dog Friendly: Yes

Here is the summary of instructions when hiking to Samaria Gorge. You will start early, and end late, but it is an incredible adventure and I would recommend it to all travelers to Crete!

• Start your day really early by taking the 6:15AM bus from Chania to Xyloskalo
• Pay the 5 Euros entrance fee, start the hike around 8AM, end anywhere from Noon – 2PM
• There are water refill stations every mile or so. There is a bathroom 1/2 way through and at the beginning/ends of the trail
• There are two small snack huts at the end of the hike
• You can either pay a few Euros or hike down to Agia Roumeli
• Take the 5:30pm ferry from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion. Take a connecting bus from Chora Sfakion to Chania (the bus departs soon after the ferry arrives)

Hiking to Samaria Gorge

The starting point of the Samaria Gorge hike is at Xyloskalo, situated at an elevation of 1,250 meters in the White Mountains. Be prepared because the first 6 kilometers are steep and challenging. However, don’t let that deter you. The panoramic views and lush landscapes make the effort worthwhile. 

As you descend, you’ll meander through stunning rocky terrain and ancient cypress forests. Keep an eye out for the kri-kri, the wild goats native to Crete, which may make an appearance along your journey. Midway through, you’ll come across the abandoned village of Samaria. This is a perfect spot to rest, hydrate, and capture some memorable photos. 

Continuing on, the gorge narrows significantly at a point known as the “Iron Gates,” where the walls are only 4 meters apart and tower 300 meters above you. This section is truly awe-inspiring, and you’ll feel a sense of scale like nowhere else. 

The final stretch is a bit more relaxed, leading you to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. Here, you can reward yourself with a refreshing dip in the Libyan Sea and a hearty meal of local Cretan cuisine. Don’t forget to check the ferry schedule ahead of time to plan your return trip. 

In total, the Samaria Gorge hike is 16 kilometers long and typically takes around 4-6 hours to complete. Though challenging, it is accessible to anyone with a moderate fitness level and a spirit of adventure. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear, pack enough water, and bring a hat to combat the Mediterranean sun. Experiencing the Samaria Gorge hike is a must-do for any hiking enthusiast or traveler in Crete!

All the Details for Hiking Samaria Gorge

We started the day really early from our villa to get to Chania. We were surprisingly able to find free street parking for the entire day! (PM or Comment below for parking details). From there, the bus for Samaria Gorge left promptly at 6:15AM to Xyloskalo. The road was long and windy so we didn’t get much sleep.

It was a bit cold in early September in the beginning of the hike, but air was crisp and fresh. We started our descent through the stairs and was blown away by how beautiful the area was! This first section of the hike is more like a dense forest, it felt like I was in Yosemite.

After the stairs ended, we started to descend into more rocky terrain. About halfway through the hike, you will reach Samaria settlement. There are bathrooms here and some people will stop for a snack. Soon after, we finally came upon the Gorge! We spent some time taking photos here before pressing on.

I think the last 1-2 miles were maybe too much. This is when our feet started to get tired from the awkward rock-shaped trails (none of us packed hiking boots). But we finally arrived to the end and treated ourselves to coffee and orange juice before paying (yes we paid) for a shuttle to town!

Once we got to town, we were completely famished and found a great restaurant called Calypso to eat at. Like true Americans (well only half of us were Americans), we ordered an entire table full of food.

On the way back, the ferry passed a cute town called Loutro. It’s like everything you would imagine in a Greek postcard. Santorini-like buildings with the crowds. If we had more time and didn’t have our villa, we would have stayed one night here!

Overall the hike was fantastic and a great way to get some exercise in during a vacation that was full of eating, beach, and more eating 🙂

Best Time to Hike Samaria Gorge

Choosing the right time of year for your Samaria Gorge hike can greatly enhance your experience. The gorge is accessible from May through October, with peak hiking season falling between June and September. During these months, the weather is mostly dry and warm, making it the best period to tackle the 16-kilometer trail. 

For those who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, late spring (May to early June) or early autumn (September to October) are ideal times. The landscape during these periods is lush with blooming wildflowers in spring and vibrant autumn colors, adding an extra layer of beauty to your hike. Make sure you check the weather before you head out on your Samaria Gorge hike, and then pack accordingly!

Be aware that the gorge may temporarily close if there’s a risk of high water or rockfalls, especially after heavy rainfalls. Always check ahead for any closures or weather warnings to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

What to Pack: Best Hiking Gear Recommendations

For this hike, I would definitely recommend good shoes because the rocks can be quite tiring on your feet. Although this hike is all downhill, it also can be a little rough on your knees so poles may be recommended.

1. Osprey 36L Sirrus Pack and rain cover or Topo Designs Mountain Pack (similar here)
2. Leki Corklite Trekking Poles (optional but good if you have bad knees for descending down elevation)
3. Hoka One One shoes: Those who follow me know that I ditched my hiking boots a couple of years ago. Shoes are very personal and you should definitely wear what is best for you, but I love having a lighter shoe with cushion on the bottom so my feet don’t hurt. Hoka One Ones are perfect!
4. MSR Dromlite 2L: my favorite drom bag, have had it over 8 years and it’s holding up great
5. Icebreaker Merino mid-layer: a great mid-layer when it gets windy/cold in the fall and winter!
6. Smartwool Short Sleeve Tshirt: great t-shirt for when it’s hot. Helps wick away sweat

Top Tips for a Successful Samaria Gorge Hike

Embarking on the Samaria Gorge hike is an exhilarating experience, but a bit of preparation can make a world of difference. Here are some top tips to ensure your adventure is both enjoyable and safe: 

1. Start Early: Begin your hike at the crack of dawn to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The first few hours are the coolest, making the initial steep descent more manageable. 

2. Wear Proper Footwear: As mentioned above, invest in a good pair of hiking shoes with solid grips. The terrain can be rocky and slippery, especially in the first 6 kilometers, which are the most challenging. Even though you are going downhill, you will want good grip on your hiking boots or trail running shoes.

3. Hydrate Frequently: Carry at least one liter of water as dehydration can sneak up on you. Fortunately, there are several points along the gorge where you can refill your bottle. 

4. Protect Yourself from the Sun: The Mediterranean sun can be unforgiving. Apply a high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays. 

5. Pack Light but Smart: A lightweight backpack is a must. Include essentials like snacks, a lightweight fleece jacket for cooler moments, swimwear if you plan to take a dip, and a towel. 

6. Use Hiking Poles: If you have them, hiking poles can provide extra stability and reduce strain on your knees during the descent. 

7. Respect Nature: Remember to respect the natural environment. Stick to designated paths and carry out all trash to leave the gorge as pristine as you found it. 

By following these tips, you’re setting yourself up for a memorable and successful Samaria Gorge hike. Ready your gear, lace up your boots, and step into the wild beauty of Crete’s most famous gorge.

Post-Hike Relaxation: Where to Unwind near Samaria Gorge

After completing your exhilarating Samaria Gorge hike, you’ll likely be in need of some well-deserved relaxation and food. Thankfully, the surrounding area offers plenty of options to help you unwind. 

One popular spot is the quaint village of Agia Roumeli. Located at the end of the gorge, this charming coastal village provides the perfect setting to rest your weary legs. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea or simply bask on the pebble beach as you take in the stunning views. 

If you’re craving for a taste of authentic Cretan cuisine, visit one of the many local tavernas. Savoring fresh seafood, paired with locally-produced raki, is an experience that will certainly rejuvenate your spirit. Some notable places to dine include Pachnes and Taverna Trouli. 

For those desiring a bit more luxury, consider heading to the town of Chania. Just a scenic boat ride and bus trip away, Chania offers a range of accommodations, from cozy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts. Spend an evening exploring the charming Old Venetian Harbor, or treat yourself to a spa day at one of the town’s upscale wellness centers. 

Have you been to Samaria Gorge before? What did you think?