16 km hike from the Omalos plateau to the Libyan Sea through the White Mountains, Crete's most famous gorge.
The Samaria Gorge in the White Mountains National Park is the best-known hike in Crete and one of the longest gorges in Europe at about 16 km from the Omalos plateau to the sea at Agia Roumeli. The walk starts at Xyloskalo with a steep stepped descent, then follows a river bed between rock walls that narrow to about 3 m at the famous Gates (Portes). It takes 5 to 7 hours and ends in the village of Agia Roumeli, from where ferries run to Chora Sfakion or Sougia, with buses back to Chania. The gorge is open roughly from 1 May to mid-October, depending on weather and water levels. Good shoes, water and a hat are essential, and the final stretch has no shade.
| Admission | About EUR 5 (about USD 5.75), plus boat and bus |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open roughly 1 May to mid-October; typical entry from about 06:30-07:00 with last entry in early afternoon. Seasonal and weather dependent; confirm. |
| Typical visit | 5 to 7 hours (full day) |
| Best time | Early morning in May-June or September-October |
| Getting there | KTEL bus or organised tour from Chania to Omalos (about 1 hour), then ferry from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion or Sougia and bus back; confirm fares at ktelchanion.gr |
| Address | Xyloskalo entrance, Omalos plateau, 73007 Chania, Crete, Greece |
Location
Xyloskalo entrance, Omalos plateau, 73007 Chania, Crete, Greece
35.3340, 23.9108 View on map
Highlights
- The Gates, where the walls narrow to about 3 m
- Stepped Xyloskalo descent from Omalos
- Abandoned village of Samaria
- Swim at Agia Roumeli beach after the hike
Tips for visiting
- Start at opening time to avoid midday heat and crowds.
- Wear hiking shoes, not sandals, and carry at least 2 litres of water.
- Book organised transport, or buy KTEL bus tickets to Omalos and the return boat in advance.
- Check the gorge is open for the day; it closes for storms or fire risk.
When to visit
May-June and September-early October, starting early in the morning.
Accessibility
Not accessible. The route is steep, uneven and long, with no vehicle access inside the gorge.
Frequently asked questions
When is Samaria Gorge open?
Roughly 1 May to mid-October, weather permitting; confirm with the park authority or a local agency.
How much does it cost?
Entry is reported at about EUR 5 (USD 5.75), plus the return boat and bus; confirm current fares.
How long does the hike take?
About 5 to 7 hours for the 16 km walk, plus 1 to 2 hours of boat and bus transfers.
Is it suitable for children?
Fit children from about 8 can manage it; the length and heat are the challenge.