Private tour in Chania Vangelis S
5.0
(1) review
1
1
Vangelis S.
5.0
Guide rating
53
Reviews
Tours delivered
10 hrs
Avg. response time
Your Guide: Professional Bio I was born and raised in the Old City of Chania, Crete. I am a professional mountaineer and mountain instructor with an IFMGA certification. Throughout my professional career, I have had the honor of guiding people of all ages, from beginners to experienced mountaineers, as well as well-known public figures such as politicians, journalists, and artists. The Prime Minister of Greece, Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has on occasion entrusted me with his personal safety for mountain climbing, hiking, and ski tours. Professional Experience I have over 30 years of experience as a mountain guide, having worked for companies and organizations such as: Trekking Plan Outdoor Activities & Mountain Services The North Face Europe (3 years) Various tourist offices and Alpine Clubs For the past two years, I have also served as a hiking leader instructor at the DIEK public school in Chania. I have summited well-known peaks in the Himalayas, including: Baruntse (7,161m) Mera Peak (6,470m) Island Peak (6,186m) Tharpu Chuli (5,800m) Naya Kanga (5,844m) I have also worked as a mountain guide in Greece, France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Nepal, Tibet, Pakistan, and the western USA. Credentials & Expertise Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education and Sport Science from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Mountaineering and Ski Touring Instructor for the Hellenic Federation of Mountaineering & Climbing UIAGM/IFMGA Candidate for Professional Mountain Guide French Avalanche Rescuer Training Member of the Alpine Clubs of Chania, Athens, and the French Club Alpin de Chamonix My Philosophy My love for nature, mountains, and adventure began in childhood. At 12, I took my first alpine skiing lessons, and at 14, I started competing in ski and road cycling races. For me, engaging in mountain activities is not just a hobby, but a way of life that I want to share with people. Through contact with the wild beauty of the mountains and as members of a team, we learn to operate with companionship and solidarity, setting and achieving new goals. Safety is of primary importance, which is why I carry a satellite phone and a first aid kit on all my hiking trips. Services I offer weekly programs, daily trips, and courses for all fitness levels and ages, in private small groups or for families. My programs combine safety and enjoyment, as we walk through gorges, on hidden paths, and alongside rivers. I am active in mountaineering, ski touring, rock and ice climbing, hiking, trail running, and swimming. Disclaimer: I am a professional mountain guide, but I am not a licensed guide and will not be able to guide you inside historical monuments.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Vangelis S.
Your Guide Born and raised in Chania, I am an IFMGA-certified mountain guide with global experience (Alps, Himalayas, USA). I’ve crossed Imbros over 1,000 times. It’s shorter than Samaria but features Crete's narrowest, most historic passages below 2,200m peaks. Premium Safety Gear Included As a private VIP experience, your safety is paramount. I provide: Professional Trekking Poles for knee protection. Lightweight Mountaineering Helmets for narrow sections. First Aid & Medical Info Form management. IMPORTANT FOOTWEAR POLICY This is a mountain trail with loose rocks. Standard tennis shoes, sneakers, or smooth-soled running shoes are strictly prohibited. Hiking here with wrong footwear is like driving a luxury sports car on a muddy mountain road—it won't work and risks your safety. Required: Proper hiking or trail-running shoes with deep rubber soles (e.g. Vibram). Note: Unsuitable footwear results in immediate on-the-spot cancellation with no refund.
08:30 AM – Morning Meeting & Departure: We meet at our designated starting point (hotel or central meeting point, depending on your transport option) to begin our morning escape. 09:30 AM – Mountain Coffee & Views: A 1-hour scenic drive brings us to the mountain village of Imbros (550m). We’ll stop for 30 minutes to enjoy a traditional coffee and local snacks overlooking the peaks. 10:00 AM – The Hike Begins: We enter the gorge on a gentle, downhill path. We will hike under the shade of ancient cypress and oak trees, surrounded by towering vertical walls. The hike is moderate, highly scenic, takes less than 3 hours, and ends at the village of Komitades. 01:00 PM – Authentic Cretan Lunch: After the hike, we will visit a traditional, family-run restaurant away from the crowds to taste authentic local dishes and wine. 03:00 PM – Return Transfer: A comfortable drive back, getting you home by 04:00 PM to enjoy the rest of your afternoon.
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transportation Options Option A (Full VIP Service): I can provide a private, comfortable vehicle with a personalized pickup directly from your hotel/accommodation for up to 4 people. This service costs an additional 150€ in total (payable directly on-site) and covers the full-day vehicle and any local return transfers. Option B (Self-Drive): If you prefer to use your own rental car, we will still meet directly at your accommodation. Please note that an extra 15€ - 20€ cash will be needed on-site for the local return transfer. Option C (VAN Service): For larger groups requiring a spacious private VAN, custom logistics and pricing will be quoted upon request based on your group size.
Chania, Greece
Regardless of the transportation option you choose, we will always meet directly at your hotel or accommodation. Note: Exact pickup times and coordination will be fully confirmed through the message board after booking.
Who is this private tour in Chaniá best suited for?
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in Chaniá be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
1
1
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works