How To Hike the Samaria Gorge (Map & Instructions)

This spectacular hike descends through Europe’s longest gorge in the White Mountains of Crete. It’s a dramatic and unforgettable journey through one of Greece’s most stunning natural wonders.

The Samaria Gorge is a 16-kilometer canyon that cuts through the heart of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) in western Crete. The gorge walls soar up to 500 meters high in places, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere as you walk between towering cliffs.

This dramatic canyon is part of the Samaria National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that’s home to the rare Cretan wild goat (kri-kri), golden eagles, and over 450 species of plants. The gorge has been carved over millennia by the river that still flows through it.

This excellent one-way descent hike winds through ancient cypress forests, crosses wooden bridges over crystal-clear streams, and squeezes through the famous Iron Gates where the canyon narrows to just 3-4 meters wide.

The views throughout are breathtaking. Towering limestone cliffs frame your path, wildflowers dot the trail in spring, and the sense of wilderness is profound. You’ll pass abandoned villages, Byzantine churches, and feel the weight of thousands of years of history.

The walk is graded medium to difficult due to its length and the relentless descent. You’ll need good knees, proper footwear, and a solid level of fitness to complete the full gorge.

In this blog post, I’ve covered everything you need to know about hiking the Samaria Gorge, including how to get to the trailhead, a map, detailed instructions for the hike, and practical tips for making the most of this incredible experience.

SAMARIA GORGE HIKE OVERVIEW

Start: Xyloskalo (Omalos Plateau)
Finish: Agia Roumeli
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles (plus 3 km to the boat)
Duration: 5-7 hours
Elevation loss: 1,250 meters
Difficulty: Medium to Difficult

The Samaria Gorge is one of those hikes that stays with you forever. The sheer scale of the canyon walls and the raw beauty of the landscape make this a bucket-list adventure.

The hike begins at Xyloskalo, which means “wooden staircase,” at an elevation of 1,250 meters on the Omalos Plateau. The trail immediately plunges downward via a steep zigzagging path with wooden railings and stone steps.

You’ll descend through fragrant pine and cypress forests, passing springs of cold mountain water. The abandoned village of Samaria sits roughly halfway through the gorge, with its 14th-century church and old stone houses.

The most dramatic section comes near the end: the Iron Gates (Sideroportes), where the gorge narrows to barely 3-4 meters wide while the cliffs soar 300 meters overhead. It’s an awe-inspiring natural gateway.

The trail exits at the old village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters before catching a ferry to continue your journey.

I’ve rated this hike as medium to difficult for three main reasons.

Firstly, the relentless 1,250-meter descent over rocky terrain is tough on the knees and feet. Even experienced hikers feel this one the next day.

Secondly, the length of the hike (16 km through the gorge, plus another 3 km to reach the boat) means you need good endurance. There’s no shortcut out once you’re committed.

Thirdly, the trail can be challenging with loose rocks, uneven surfaces, and stream crossings on wooden bridges. During spring, some sections may have flowing water across the path.

Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and grip are essential for this hike. I cannot stress this enough.

It took me 6 hours to complete the hike at a moderate pace, including short breaks for photos and water. Add another hour for lunch at Agia Roumeli and the walk to the ferry, making it a full 7-hour adventure.

SAMARIA GORGE HIKE MAP

Below is a map showing the Samaria Gorge trail from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli.

The hike starts at the Xyloskalo entrance on the Omalos Plateau (southern side) and ends at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea.

Key points marked along the route include:

Xyloskalo starting point (1,250m elevation)
Neroutsiko spring
Samaria village (abandoned)
The Iron Gates (Sideroportes)
Agia Roumeli beach and ferry port

If you prefer a physical map, I recommend: Anavasi 1:25,000 – White Mountains (Lefka Ori).

For digital navigation, download the Crete region on Maps.me or use Komoot, which has excellent trail coverage for the gorge.

USING OUR MAPS: Click on the top right corner to open in the Google Maps app. Click on the star to save to your Google account.

GETTING TO THE TRAILHEAD

The Samaria Gorge hike starts at Xyloskalo on the Omalos Plateau. The gorge is open daily from early May to mid-October, typically from 6 AM to 3 PM (last entry), depending on weather conditions. The entrance fee is €5.

BY BUS

The easiest way to reach Xyloskalo is by public bus from Chania. Buses depart from the main bus station (KTEL) in Chania at 6:15 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, and 9:30 AM during the summer season. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around €7.50.

The buses are specifically scheduled for gorge hikers and coordinate with the boat schedule from Agia Roumeli back to Chora Sfakion or Sougia, where you can catch buses back to Chania.

I recommend taking the earliest bus to avoid crowds and beat the heat.

BY CAR

You can drive to Omalos Plateau from Chania (45 km, about 1 hour). However, this creates a logistics challenge since you’ll finish the hike in Agia Roumeli, which is only accessible by boat.

Most hikers leave their car at Xyloskalo and arrange for a taxi pick-up from Chora Sfakion (where the ferry arrives from Agia Roumeli) back to their car. This costs approximately €70-90 and should be arranged in advance.

Alternatively, some tour operators offer packages that include transportation, allowing you to avoid this hassle entirely.

BY ORGANIZED TOUR

Many companies in Chania and other parts of Crete offer organized Samaria Gorge tours that include bus transportation, ferry tickets, and a guide. This is the most stress-free option and costs around €30-40 per person.

HIKING INSTRUCTIONS

XYLOSKALO TO SAMARIA VILLAGE (2 hours 30 minutes)

After paying the €5 entrance fee at the top of Xyloskalo, begin your descent down the famous wooden staircase. The name Xyloskalo literally means “wooden stairs,” though most of the path is now paved with stones.

The first section drops steeply through a pine and cypress forest. The zigzagging path has wooden railings in places, and the views back up to the White Mountains are spectacular. Take your time here – the steep descent can be slippery, especially early in the morning when dew is still present.

After about 45 minutes, you’ll reach several springs where you can refill your water bottles with fresh mountain water. The trail becomes gentler as you enter the gorge proper.

Continue descending through the forest, crossing several wooden bridges over the stream. The sound of water becomes your constant companion, and in spring, the wildflowers are magnificent.

After roughly 2 hours, you’ll reach the abandoned village of Samaria (560m elevation). This atmospheric settlement was evacuated in 1962 when the area became a national park. You can explore the old stone houses and visit the small 14th-century Church of Osia Maria, after which the gorge is named.

There’s a rest station here with toilets and a small kiosk selling drinks and snacks. It’s a good place to take a longer break before continuing.

SAMARIA VILLAGE TO THE IRON GATES (2 hours)

From Samaria village, the character of the gorge changes dramatically. The valley narrows, and the walls begin to soar higher and higher around you.

The trail follows the riverbed more closely now, crossing back and forth over wooden bridges. During spring and early summer, the stream flows more vigorously, and the sound echoes off the canyon walls.

The path is rockier in this section, winding between enormous boulders that have fallen from the cliffs above. Keep your eyes open for the Cretan wild goat (kri-kri) – if you’re lucky and quiet, you might spot them on the cliffs.

The walls grow taller and closer together as you progress. The sense of scale is humbling as you realize just how small you are between these ancient limestone cliffs.

After about 2 hours from Samaria village, you’ll reach the most spectacular section: the Iron Gates (Sideroportes). Here, the gorge narrows to just 3-4 meters wide while the walls tower 300-500 meters overhead. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Crete, and for good reason.

Take your time walking through this natural gateway. The light, the scale, and the raw power of nature are unforgettable. During busy periods, there may be a queue of hikers taking photos, but it moves quickly.

THE IRON GATES TO AGIA ROUMELI (1 hour 30 minutes)

After passing through the Iron Gates, you’ll see the official “exit” gate of the national park after about 20 minutes. Don’t be fooled – you still have roughly 3 kilometers to go to reach Agia Roumeli and the sea.

This final section follows a flat, sometimes dusty path through a wider valley. The gorge has opened up now, and you can see the Libyan Sea shimmering in the distance. It’s hot and exposed here, so keep hydrated.

The trail eventually becomes a wider path bordered by oleander bushes, and you’ll start to see other tourists who have come from Agia Roumeli for a short walk into the gorge.

Finally, after 5-7 hours of hiking (depending on your pace), you’ll arrive at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. Head straight for the beach – the cold, clear water is the perfect reward for your efforts. The village is only accessible by boat or by hiking the gorge, giving it a wonderful remote feeling.

There are several tavernas where you can enjoy a well-deserved meal. I recommend trying fresh grilled fish and a cold Greek beer while watching the waves.

The ferries to Chora Sfakion and Sougia run several times in the afternoon (roughly at 5 PM, 5:30 PM, and 6 PM), so you have time to relax before your boat. Buy your ticket (€13-15) from the small office near the dock. Make sure you know which direction you need to go based on where your return bus leaves from.

FACILITIES ALONG THE ROUTE

WATER SOURCES

There are several natural springs along the trail where you can refill your water bottles. The water is safe to drink and deliciously cold. The main springs are:

Neroutsiko spring (about 1 hour into the hike)
Various springs near Samaria village
Springs throughout the gorge

However, I always carry at least 2 liters of water per person as a safety measure.

REST STATIONS

There are basic facilities at:

The entrance at Xyloskalo (toilets, small shop)
Samaria village (toilets, kiosk with snacks and drinks)
The exit gate near the Iron Gates (toilets)

These are the only places to buy food or drinks during the hike, so plan accordingly.

AGIA ROUMELI

The village has several tavernas, cafes, mini-markets, hotels, and a pebbly beach. There are ATMs and public toilets near the ferry dock.

BEST TIME TO HIKE THE SAMARIA GORGE

The gorge is officially open from early May to mid-October, depending on weather conditions and water levels. The exact opening date varies each year based on when winter snow has melted and the river is at safe levels.

Best months: May, June, and September are ideal. The weather is pleasant, wildflowers bloom in spring, and crowds are more manageable than peak summer.

Peak season: July and August are the busiest months. The gorge can see 3,000+ hikers per day during this period. If you visit in summer, take the earliest possible bus to stay ahead of the crowds.

Late season: Early October can be wonderful with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, but be aware the gorge may close early if autumn rains arrive.

I hiked in early June and found it perfect. The wildflowers were still blooming, the water in the stream was flowing beautifully, and while there were other hikers, it never felt overcrowded. The temperature was warm but not oppressively hot.

The gorge is closed during winter (November-April) due to flash flood risks and dangerous conditions.

WHAT TO TAKE ON THE HIKE

Hiking Boots: This is non-negotiable. You need sturdy boots with good ankle support and grip. The rocky, uneven terrain will destroy your feet in regular shoes. I use something similar to Salomon X Ultra boots.

Hiking Poles: Highly recommended for this hike due to the constant descent. They save your knees tremendously. I use adjustable poles like Leki Makalu.

Sun Protection: The gorge is exposed in many sections. Bring high-SPF sunblock, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. The sun reflects off the white rocks intensely.

Water: Carry at least 2 liters per person. While there are springs, you don’t want to risk running out. I use a 3-liter hydration pack which makes drinking while walking much easier.

Snacks: Pack energy-rich snacks like nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, and sandwiches. The only food available during the hike is basic snacks at Samaria village.

First Aid Kit: Include blister plasters (essential!), pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Light Layers: Morning starts can be cool at the top, but it warms up quickly. Bring a light fleece or jacket you can stuff in your pack.

Swimsuit: Don’t forget this! Swimming in the Libyan Sea at Agia Roumeli is one of the best parts of the trip.

Cash: Bring enough euros for the entrance fee (€5), ferry ticket (€13-15), and food/drinks in Agia Roumeli. Many places don’t accept cards.

Phone/Camera: The gorge is incredibly photogenic, especially the Iron Gates. Make sure your device is fully charged.

Backpack: A comfortable 20-30 liter daypack to carry everything. Keep it as light as possible.

What NOT to bring: Drones are prohibited in the national park. Leave them at your hotel.

IMPORTANT TIPS AND WARNINGS

Start Early: Take the first bus to beat crowds and heat. The gorge can reach 40°C (104°F) in summer afternoons.

No Turning Back: Once you’re 30 minutes into the descent, there’s no easy way back up. You’re committed to finishing the 16km hike. Make sure you’re physically prepared.

Check Weather: The gorge closes during bad weather due to flash flood danger. Check conditions the day before.

Pace Yourself: This isn’t a race. Take regular breaks, drink water, and enjoy the experience. Rushing leads to injuries.

Ferry Schedules: Verify ferry times for your return journey. The last boats leave around 6 PM, and missing them means staying overnight in Agia Roumeli (which has accommodation but requires rebooking your return plans).

Accommodation: If you want to split the hike over two days, you can stay at Agia Roumeli and explore the area. It’s accessible only by boat or foot, making it a wonderfully isolated spot.

Wildlife: The kri-kri (Cretan wild goat) is protected. Don’t approach, feed, or disturb them. Observe from a distance.

Leave No Trace: Carry all trash out with you. The gorge is a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

WHY HIKE THE SAMARIA GORGE?

This hike is challenging, but it’s one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in Europe. The combination of dramatic geology, rich history, pristine nature, and the satisfaction of completing such an iconic trail makes it unforgettable.

When you’re standing in the Iron Gates with 300-meter walls towering above you, or when you finally dip your tired feet in the Libyan Sea, you’ll understand why over 100,000 people hike this gorge every year.

It’s not just a hike – it’s a journey through geological time, Cretan history, and your own physical limits. If you’re visiting Crete and enjoy hiking, the Samaria Gorge is absolutely essential.

Just remember: proper preparation makes all the difference. Take your time, bring good boots, start early, and embrace the adventure. You’ve got this!