Hiking in the most famous Samaria gorge in Greece is a great way to spend some time in this beautiful part of the country. Whether you are looking for a relaxing hike or a more challenging climb, you will find it here. However, you should be aware of some of the dangers that are associated with hiking in the gorge. You can avoid these risks if you follow a few guidelines.
Dangers
If you’re planning to hike in Crete’s Samaria Gorge, be sure to read up on what to expect before you start. The gorge has become a major tourist attraction on the island, but the area is not without dangers. In February, a Frenchman was killed by a falling rock while hiking in the gorge.
Hiking in the gorge requires that you be physically fit. You will be walking uphill and downhill. Make sure you have plenty of water and snacks. Also, be careful when using the guardrail.
To make the most of your trip, plan to arrive early. This will allow you to avoid the crowds. And it will also mean that you can do the hike in the summer, when temperatures are cooler.
Once you’re in the gorge, you’ll be able to see the stunning views. The gorge is home to rare species of plants and animals. Some of the creatures you may see are golden eagles, kri-kri goats (cliff-climbing ibex), and partridges.
The Samaria Gorge is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It contains 450 plant and animal species, including many endangered and endemic species.
The gorge has a mild climate. However, the area can become very hot, especially at the bottom of the gorge.
For this reason, it’s best to wear a light jacket. Also, you should bring swimsuits. Fortunately, the Samaria Gorge has a number of springs that you can refill your water bottle with.
As for safety, be sure to wear hard hats. Even if you don’t get caught by a falling rock, there is always the chance of getting stung by an apiary.
Another thing to keep in mind is the dangers of being trapped in the gorge. Several tourists have been injured or even died after being trapped there.
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Getting there
If you’re planning on hiking in Samaria Gorge in Greece, you’re in luck. The gorge is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts in Crete. Located near Chania, it is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You can get there by car, public bus or organized tour.
Hiking in the gorge will take you about five to seven hours. It is best to start early in the morning to avoid the hot and humid weather. The first part of the route is easy, but the last three kilometers are steep and rough. Those who don’t have the stamina to finish it should skip it.
The Gorge is located in the Omalos Plateau in the White Mountains of Crete. It’s a great place to spot kri-kri, a rare cliff-climbing ibex. They can be spotted over the bridge.
There are several resting points along the trail. The first has a bathroom and drinking water. Another is at the chapel of Agios Nikolaos.
You’ll notice yellow markers on the trail. These are there to mark each kilometer. Keep an eye out for quails, ibex, golden eagles, turtle-doves and partridges. Those are endemic species and can be seen along the trail.
The Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For more information about the gorge, check out the museum at Xyloskalo.
Hiking in Samaria Gorge can be a good way to spend the day, but it’s important to be cautious. It’s very easy to become disoriented. Bring protective clothing and swimsuits. Also, you should check with the local authorities if you have a medical emergency.
The earliest bus from Hania leaves at sunrise. This beats the midday crowds.
Accommodations
Samaria is one of the most popular attractions on Crete. The gorge is located in the White Mountains of west Crete.
In 1962, it was designated as a National Park. There are many endangered animals and plants on the gorge. You can also see the old churches and sheepfolds.
Samaria Gorge is open for visitors every day except for January and February. Visitors should be prepared for a long walk. Hikers must wear protective clothing and swimsuits. Pregnant women, people with health problems, and obese people should avoid the area.
A boat ride from Agia Roumeli is available to take you to the top of the gorge. After you’ve reached the top, you can walk down the gorge.
Samaria National Park has a trail that takes hikers past towering cliffs and endless views. There are warden posts equipped with radios along the trail. Trash bins are located throughout the trail.
It takes about a half a day to walk down the gorge. Most hikers reach “new” Agia Roumeli around midday. However, the gorge can be very crowded. If you have any concerns, there is a medical center and ambulance in the village.
The best time to visit the gorge is during the spring and summer months. During the winter, the gorge gets closed due to the snow. Before starting your hike, be sure to check the weather forecast.
Hikers should arrive at Xiloskalo, the entrance to the gorge, at least a few hours before sunrise. This will give you plenty of time to see the gorge and enjoy the scenery. When you are ready to leave, the gorge guards will check your ticket.
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Best time of day to hike
If you’re planning a trip to the Samaria Gorge in Crete, you may want to start early. This is because there are a lot of tourists in the area, especially during the summer. The heat can be unbearable at the bottom of the gorge.
Fortunately, there are a few ways you can enjoy this popular tourist attraction. You can rent a car, take a boat or go on a guided hike. Here are a few tips that should help you decide which option is right for you.
One of the best ways to see the gorge is to hike it. The Samaria National Park has a well-maintained path. This is much better than the usual mountain trails of Crete, thanks to the wardens who keep the trail in order.
The most important thing to remember is to wear protective clothing. Aside from the obvious – hiking boots, a water bottle and sun block – you’ll need something to wear around your neck and shoulders.
The shortest route is actually quite steep. It takes about two miles to reach the top. However, the last three kilometers are out of the park, so you’ll be surrounded by flowers and small villages.
If you’re planning on going on a guided tour, you can expect to see plenty of other people. The best time to go is early in the morning, and you should be prepared to stay at least one night.
The trail is well marked, and there are numerous numbered rest stops along the way. These are a good idea because it’s often easy to get lost and disoriented.
While there are plenty of things to do in Crete, the most exciting is probably the hike in the Samaria Gorge. There’s no better time than in the warmer spring or summer months.
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Other gorges to visit in Crete
The Samaria Gorge is one of the most popular hiking destinations on Crete. The gorge was formed when a small river flowed through mountains. It is now a protected national park.
The gorge is located in the White Mountains in West Crete. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering protection to 70 endemic species of plants and animals.
The gorge is considered the second-largest in Europe. At its widest point, it is 150 meters wide.
Hiking in the gorge is a challenge. You need to be prepared for uneven stones, heavy roots, and dense shrubs. A tour guide can help keep you safe.
A great time to visit the Samaria Gorge is in the spring or fall. Visitors can hike a total of 10 miles. During the summer, the gorge gets crowded.
Samaria is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area has a history dating back to ancient times. From the Greek royal family fleeing to Egypt to the Allied troops hiding in the gorge during WWII, the site has a deep significance.
In 1962, the Samaria Gorge became a national park. Today, it’s a popular hiking destination for tourists from all over the world. It has many free parking areas. There are also trash bins and mules with drivers to patrol the trail.
Unlike high mountain hiking, the gorge is not very difficult. Although it does have a number of steep climbs, the trail is marked and passes by a number of interesting flora and fauna.
While in the gorge, you might want to consider a stop at Agia Roumeli. The village is home to a Turkish castle. The beach is very nice, too.
