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Samaria Gorge Hike: Complete Guide for Crete

How the Samaria Gorge hike works: distance, season, buses, the ferry out and what to bring.

By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-11

Quick answer

Samaria Gorge in western Crete is a one-way hike of about 16 km, mostly downhill, from Xyloskalo on the Omalos plateau to Agia Roumeli on the south coast. It takes 4–7 hours. There's no road out of Agia Roumeli, so you take a ferry to Sfakia or Sougia and a bus back to Chania. The gorge usually opens from May to October and closes on days of heavy rain, strong wind or extreme heat.

How the day works

  • Early KTEL bus (or a tour coach) from Chania up to Omalos, about 1 hour.
  • Pay the entrance fee at Xyloskalo and walk down the steep wooden-railed path into the gorge.
  • Walk through the abandoned village of Samaria, about halfway, with toilets and shade.
  • Pass the Iron Gates (Sideroportes), where the walls close in to only a few metres apart.
  • Finish at Agia Roumeli for a swim, lunch, and the afternoon ferry to Sfakia or Sougia.
  • Bus from the port back to Chania; organised tours do all of this for you.

What to bring

  • Hiking shoes with a good grip; the first part is steep and rocky.
  • At least 1 litre of water; there are springs along the way to refill.
  • Sun hat, sunscreen, snacks and swimwear for the end.
  • Cash for the entrance, the ferry and lunch.

Good to know

  • You can't walk Samaria after mid-afternoon: rangers close the entrance so everyone is out by evening.
  • Wild kri-kri goats live in the gorge; don't feed them.
  • Not up for the full hike? The 'lazy way' walks up from Agia Roumeli to the Iron Gates and back.
  • Imbros Gorge, nearby, is a shorter, easier alternative that's open longer each year.

FAQ

How hard is the Samaria Gorge hike?

It's long rather than technical. It's fine for fit walkers, but the steep first hour and the distance tire most people's knees.

When is Samaria Gorge open?

Usually from May to the end of October, and only on safe days. It closes for heavy rain, strong wind or extreme heat.

Do I need a tour for Samaria Gorge?

No, but a tour handles the early bus, the ferry and the bus back, which is easier than doing it yourself.

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Updated 2026-11. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.