Samaria Long Way from Rethymno

Planning a trip to Crete and considering a trek through the famous Samaria Gorge? You’re not alone. Many travelers are drawn to its rugged beauty and natural wonder, but deciding whether a guided tour like the Samaria Long Way from Rethymno is right for you can be tricky. This tour offers a full-day, 14-hour adventure that promises a scenic and challenging hike, guided support, and a relaxing boat ride at the end.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its well-organized nature and the chance to see some of Crete’s most iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The guides appear knowledgeable, and the itinerary is carefully designed to maximize your time in nature. However, it’s worth mentioning that the 16-kilometer trek isn’t for everyone—it’s strenuous and requires good physical fitness.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want an authentic outdoor experience and are prepared for a full day on their feet. If you’re someone who enjoys hiking, stunning mountain scenery, and wildlife spotting—particularly the rare kri-kri goats—then this could be an ideal choice. That said, if you prefer more relaxed, less physically demanding excursions, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• A full-day adventure: Expect around 14 hours from pickup to return, packed with hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing boat rides.
• Guided support included: Knowledgeable guides provide maps, explanations, and check on group safety throughout the hike.
• Stunning vistas: Views of the White Mountains, Omalos Plateau, and the surrounding countryside make the effort worthwhile.
• Wildlife sightings: Keep an eye out for kri-kri goats and native flora.
• Comfortable transport: An air-conditioned coach ensures your journey to and from the gorge is smooth.
• All-in-one experience: The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, boat ride, and a comprehensive guide, offering good value for the price.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel around 7:00am—an ideal time to get ahead of the crowds and start your adventure fresh. The bus ride takes you along Crete’s northern coast before heading into the White Mountains, a rugged backdrop that immediately sets the tone for a day of natural beauty. You’ll pause for a coffee at the Omalos Plateau, situated at about 1,100 meters elevation, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and absorb the panoramic views.

At the plateau, you’ll meet your guide, who will provide a map and explain the plan for the day. This is helpful, especially since the gorge is quite long—about 16 km—and the terrain can vary from rocky to more shaded and forested sections. The guides have led this route countless times, which means they can help you pace yourself and find your way if you’re unsure.

Once you step into the gorge around 9:15am, the real hiking begins. The Samaria Gorge is renowned as one of Europe’s most captivating natural corridors, with towering walls that soar up to 300 meters in some places. The hike itself is strenuous in parts, especially in the hotter months, so proper footwear and socks are crucial. The trail features uneven terrain, rocky paths, and narrow sections, but the stunning views and sense of accomplishment make it all worthwhile.

Approximately 5 to 6 hours later, you’ll emerge at the end of the gorge in Agia Roumeli, a small village by the sea. Here, you’ll have some free time for a light snack or a quick rest before boarding a boat at around 5:30pm. The boat ride from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion is a highlight—it offers a relaxing way to enjoy the coastline and the rugged scenery from the water. The boat arrives around 6:30pm, where a bus will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, arriving around 8:00pm to 9:00pm depending on your location.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Well-organized logistics are a strong point. From pickup to drop-off, the tour is designed to minimize stress. The guides are experienced and attentive, often checking in to ensure everyone is doing okay and providing useful tips—such as the importance of good footwear and bringing essentials like water and sunscreen.

The scenic diversity of the route is another major plus. You’ll see the White Mountains, a vast plateau, and the lush landscape of the gorge itself. The winding trail offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially at the more open sections where you can admire the mountain walls closing around you.

One of the most praised aspects, based on the single review available, is the smooth organization. The reviewer, Stephen_T, noted: “Very well organised excursion. Made the journey to and from Samaria Gorge very easy and stress free.” That kind of peace of mind is invaluable when tackling a hike of this nature.

Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot kri-kri goats, a rare and protected species native to Crete. The guides often point out flora and fauna along the trail, adding an educational element to the trek.

The boat ride at the end is equally well received, offering a gentle and scenic conclusion to a demanding day. It’s a great way to unwind and take in the coastline from a different perspective, especially after hours of hiking.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs around $62.86 per person, which, considering the included transport, guide, and boat ride, offers good value. Keep in mind, the entrance fee to Samaria is additional—just €5 (free for children under 15)—and the boat ticket is around €11, with discounts for children. Food and drinks are not included, so packing a snack or two is recommended.

The tour is designed for people with moderate physical fitness, as the hike is at least five hours long and physically demanding. Good walking shoes, light clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential. The tour also emphasizes the importance of respecting the environment and following rules—no camping, fires, or uprooting plants.

Because the group size is capped at 30 travelers, you’ll likely get some personal attention, which is helpful during the more challenging sections. The tour operates rain or shine, so check the weather forecast before your trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler with a love for nature, this tour is a fantastic way to experience Crete’s rugged beauty firsthand. It’s perfect for hikers, wildlife lovers, and those wanting a full day outdoors. People who enjoy guided support and structured itineraries will find this especially convenient.

However, if you prefer more relaxed excursions, or if you have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The hike is demanding, and the terrain can be uneven, so be honest with yourself about your fitness level before booking.

The Sum Up

The Samaria Long Way from Rethymno offers an immersive, well-organized way to explore one of Europe’s most stunning natural sites. Its combination of challenging hiking, awe-inspiring scenery, wildlife spotting, and a soothing boat ride makes for a memorable day. The guides’ expertise and attention to safety add a layer of confidence that enhances the experience.

This tour provides excellent value for those who want to witness Crete’s rugged landscape up close and don’t mind a full day of physical activity. It’s particularly suited for active travelers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking to tick off a must-see in Crete with minimal hassle.

If you’re prepared for the physical challenge and eager to see the gorge’s natural grandeur, this is a tour you’ll likely remember long after you leave the island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the hike is quite strenuous and requires a moderate fitness level. Children under 15 are free for the entrance fee, but you should assess if your kids are comfortable with long, physically demanding hikes.

How long does the hike take?
The hike through Samaria Gorge itself takes at least 5 hours, covering 16 kilometers. The full day, including transportation and breaks, lasts approximately 14 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring proper walking shoes with socks, a hat, sunscreen, a bottle of water, and a light snack. A swimsuit and towel are also recommended if you want to relax after the hike.

Are there any restrictions during the hike?
Yes, camping is not allowed, and you cannot light fires, smoke outside designated areas, or bring animals or guns. Uprooting plants and bathing in the river are also prohibited.

How is the transportation arranged?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned coach, making the journey to and from the gorge comfortable and hassle-free.

What about the weather?
The tour operates rain or shine, so check the forecast and dress accordingly. The terrain can be slippery if wet, so extra caution is advised.

What is the cost?
The price is about $62.86 per person, excluding entrance and boat fees, which are paid on the day.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of travelers to operate, and the maximum group size is 30, ensuring a more personal experience.

If you’re ready for a full day of adventure filled with stunning vistas and a bit of a workout, this tour could be just what you need to see Crete’s wild side. Be prepared, stay hydrated, and enjoy every step of the journey.