The classic 16 km descent from the Omalos plateau to the Libyan Sea at Agia Roumeli, through a national park gorge.
The trail starts at Xyloskalo on the Omalos plateau at about 1,230 m and runs about 16 km down to Agia Roumeli, passing the abandoned village of Samaria and the narrow Iron Gates. Hikers then take a ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sougia or Chora Sfakion and a bus back to Chania. The park re-opened for 2026 on 19 May after maintenance, with closures during storms or high fire risk, such as on 22 September 2026. Free helmets are offered at both entrances. Entry is about EUR 10 (approx $12) for adults according to tour listings, with reductions for children and EU seniors, and ferry fares from Agia Roumeli are about EUR 13-14 (approx $15-16).
| Distance | 16 km |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 to 7 hours |
| Trailhead | KTEL Chania early bus or tour coach to Xyloskalo (about 45 minutes to 1 hour), return by ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sougia or Sfakia and bus to Chania |
| Best season | Late May to October (park season; check closures) |
| Address | Xyloskalo, Omalos, 730 01 Chania, Crete, Greece |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Omalos / Agia Roumeli
What to bring
Sturdy hiking shoes, 2 litres of water, hat, sun protection, swimwear, ferry fare in cash
Location
Xyloskalo, Omalos, 730 01 Chania, Crete, Greece
35.3100, 23.9500 View on map
Highlights
- Descent from the Xyloskalo wooden stairway on the Omalos plateau into the White Mountains
- Passing the abandoned village of Samaria inside the national park
- Walking through the Iron Gates, where the gorge narrows sharply
- Finishing with a swim at Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea
Tips for visiting
- Start at opening time to walk the upper section before the midday heat and the tour coaches.
- Carry ferry fare in cash for the boat from Agia Roumeli to Sougia or Chora Sfakion.
- Check that the park is open on the day, since it closes during storms or high fire risk.
- Bring at least 2 litres of water and refill at the springs along the route.
- Wear sturdy shoes; the loose rock underfoot is harder on the knees than the distance suggests.
When to visit
Late May to October, when the park is open; early morning starts avoid the midday heat. Midsummer is hot and crowded.
Accessibility
The trail is a steep, rocky, uneven descent with no wheelchair- or stroller-friendly section. It is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Samaria Gorge walk take?
The 16 km walk usually takes 5 to 7 hours from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli. Visitors then take a ferry and bus back to Chania, which adds several hours.
When is Samaria Gorge open?
The park is open from late spring to autumn, and it re-opened on 19 May in 2026. It can close at short notice during storms or high fire risk.
How do hikers get back to Chania?
A ferry runs from Agia Roumeli to Sougia or Chora Sfakion, where a bus continues to Chania. Many visitors book a tour that arranges the whole transfer.