Hiking the Samaria Gorge – Safety & Visitor Guide
The Samaria Gorge is one of Crete’s most iconic natural wonders, located within the Samaria National Park — a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the White Mountains. The trail stretches about 13 kilometers through the gorge, plus an additional 3 kilometers to reach the beach and the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.
The path starts at Xyloskalo, sitting at 1,250 meters above sea level, and descends through dramatic cliffs, pine forests, and rocky terrain. The highlight of the hike is the narrowest point known as the “Iron Gates”, where the gorge narrows to just 4 meters wide, flanked by towering cliffs 500 meters high.
Essential Safety Guidelines
Always follow the instructions of park rangers, firefighters, and all signs posted along the route — especially those warning of falling rocks.
Stay strictly on the main trail. Leaving the marked path is prohibited.
Fires are a serious risk. Report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. Smoking is only allowed at designated rest stops.
Entry is at your own responsibility. Be sure to bring the appropriate gear, any necessary medication, and inform park staff of any health issues before you begin.
Walk at a comfortable pace and feel free to stop often — both for safety and to enjoy the views.
Mobile phones do not have signal within the gorge. If anything happens, inform the nearest ranger or emergency staff.
Strictly Prohibited in the National Park
🚫 Lighting fires
🚫 Camping
🚫 Hunting or fishing
🚫 Picking flowers or damaging vegetation
🚫 Removing or damaging rocks, nests, or geological formations
🚫 Bringing pets without a leash
🚫 Making loud noise
🚫 Throwing stones
🚫 Leaving trash outside designated bins
🚫 Smoking outside rest areas
🚫 Drinking alcohol
🚫 Carrying weapons or traps
🚫 Swimming in streams
Hiking Details
Distance: ~16 km total (13 km through the gorge + 3 km to Agia Roumeli)
Estimated duration: 5 to 5.5 hours at a slow pace with a few rest/photo stops
Difficulty: Moderate — steep and rocky descent at the beginning, flatter toward the end
The terrain can be uneven and sharp in places, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must. While athletic shoes may work, they should have hard soles. Flip-flops or soft sneakers will likely cause discomfort and may delay your exit or boat connection.
Trekking poles can help with balance, especially during the descent.
Suggested Gear Checklist
✔ Hiking shoes (hard soles recommended)
✔ Hat & sunscreen
✔ Sunglasses
✔ Swimsuit (you’ll end up by the sea!)
✔ Refillable water bottle
✔ Snacks (no shops inside the gorge)
✔ Basic first aid supplies
✔ Walking stick (optional)
Water: Springs are available along the route, but some may dry up in late summer. Check at the entrance before relying on them.
Toilets are available at several rest stops along the way.
Shops/cafés: Only at the gorge entrance and again in Agia Roumeli — no commercial facilities inside the park.
Entry Information
Opening hours: From 7:00 AM daily
Entrance fee:
Adults: €10
Groups: €8 per person
Families: €6 per person
Getting There & Getting Back
If you drive to the entrance at Xyloskalo, you'll need to take a ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sougia after your hike. From Sougia, a bus will take you back to Xyloskalo where your car is parked.
Boat: Agia Roumeli → Sougia
Daily at 17:30
Adults: €15
Children (5–12): €7.50
Students: €12
Bus: Sougia → Xyloskalo or Chania
Departs at 18:15 (after ferry arrives)
To Xyloskalo: €7
To Chania: €7.30
You can buy your ferry and bus tickets at the café near the entrance to the gorge. There are also two parking areas at Xyloskalo (€5/day, guarded).
Alternatively, you can arrange a water taxi and land taxi if you prefer more flexibility.
By Public Bus
If you're not driving, here are your options to reach Xyloskalo:
From Chania to Xyloskalo
Daily: 06:15 & 07:45
€7.10 (adults), €5.30 (students), €3.60 (disabled)
From Sougia to Xyloskalo
Daily at 07:00
€7.00 (adults), €5.50 (disabled), €3.60 (students)
From Paleochora to Xyloskalo
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply a nature lover, Samaria Gorge offers an unforgettable experience — but preparation is key. Stick to the rules, start early, and enjoy one of Crete’s most breathtaking natural treasures.
Looking for a guided tour to this Gorge? You can book tours with our partner using the "see deals" button below
