Private tour in Chania Vangelis S
5.0
(1) review
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Vangelis S.
5.0
Guide rating
50
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Tours delivered
11 hrs
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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.
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Prepare for an unforgettable private river trekking adventure in Kourtaliotiko Gorge! We will swim through crystal-clear waters and discover majestic waterfalls. As a certified IFMGA Mountain Guide born in Chania, I've led expeditions globally and crossed this gorge hundreds of times, ensuring absolute safety. I always carry a professional first-aid kit and a Thuraya Satellite Phone for connectivity inside the canyon. Footwear & Gear: Shoes: Simple tennis shoes are fine, but they will get completely wet. Alternatively, you can rent/buy specialized water shoes on-site (like the ones I use). No hiking poles needed. Helmets: Provided by me and mandatory. Neoprene Wetsuits (Highly Recommended): We will rent them on-site. The water is 16°C–17°C at the springs and 18°C–19°C downstream. A suit (thick, thin, short, or full-length depending on how much you freeze) lets you stay in the river longer and enjoy it safely.
Hotel Meeting: We meet directly at your accommodation in Chania or Rethymnon. Briefing & Approach: At Kourtaliotiko Gorge, we conduct a safety briefing on river trekking before a 15-minute hike down to the riverbed. River Trekking: We gear up with helmets and swim/trek through the canyon for about 1 hour. Water is 16°C–18°C; neoprene suits are highly recommended for warmth and protection. Tavern Lunch: After the canyon, we stop at a traditional village tavern on our way back for authentic local Cretan food. Return: A 30-minute drive back to Rethymnon or 1.5-hour drive back to Chania. Group Size: Strictly limited to a maximum of 4 participants for safety and agility in the water.
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Transportation Options Please review our transportation options below and let me know your preference via the message board after booking: Option A (Turnkey Service - up to 4 people): I will personally secure and drive a modern, comfortable vehicle for your group. The cost is a flat 170€ (covering full-day rental, commercial insurance, and fuel), payable directly to me on-site. Option B (Your Rental Car): If you prefer to use your own rental vehicle, we will meet directly at your accommodation, and I will join you inside your vehicle to guide you to the destination.
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.
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