Private tour in Chania George T

Samaria Gorge. Full day hike in heart of nature

5.0

(14) reviews

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Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
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1

Tour date
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-
Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

George T.

5.0

Guide rating

148

Reviews

Tours delivered

4 hrs

Avg. response time

Born and raised in Chania, spent 10 years in the UK, studied modern history, did two MAs and worked for Marriott hotels as a manager for 4 years. I work in tourism for more than 25 years and since 2006 I manage a small family hotel and offer private tours to various locations. I constantly try to discover the nature, history and traditions of Crete, and show its beauties to visitors. As a member of many local organizations and passionate about the island, I regularly hike, research the local history and discover the endless hidden gems of the island. Every tour is a discovery and experience, a journey through time, and the Greek civilization. My aim is to share my passion of the island to its visitors and enjoy a discovery experience. As a traveler myself I have an insight of what a guest needs and try to adapt tours and focus to cater the needs of its participants. Whatever your interest might be, from visiting a beach, hiking a gorge or exploring Chania town, I could be the perfect partner for your trip. I have learned that not only knowledge of a guide is important but also his joyful personality is what make a tour special and leave the best memories for its participants. I can organize private tours to cater your needs, just send me a message with your broad interests or locations you would like to visit. Have a pleasant stay in Chania! •Studied Modern History in the UK and have two MAs 1994-02 •I am licensed to offer private chauffeur tours •Tour escort since 2006 •Manage small family hotel since 2006 •Manage and work at a private tour company •Work in the tourism industry since 1994 (more than 25 years) •F&B manager in London Marriott Maida Vale 5* hotel 2002-06 •Red Cross Samaritan volunteer - First Aid certificate •Member of the local Mountaineering Club •3rd Rover Scouts of Chania leader - friendly with kids •My car is a 7-seater Citroen Berlingo, can take up to 6 guests. •I am not licensed to guide inside museums or archaeological sites.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message George T.

Overview of your Chania tour

Samaria gorge is a National Park with unique flora and fauna, in the heart of the Lefka Ori mountains. It is by far the best hike in Crete, and probably one of the best in Europe. It is a demanding hike. The hike path is uneven and rocky, you have to watch your step. You have to hike at least 6km on a weekly basis or this hike will be too tiring and perhaps you will not make it in time at the exit to take the boat. If you have injuries at legs, its better not to hike it. Its impossible to get lost, you will hike in the bottom of the gorge with cliffs around. Will provide transportation only, not hike with you. Samaria is a 16km downhill hike in forest and mountains, with a river flowing and organized resting places. It takes 5 hours to cross it. Will depart at 6am and return at 9pm. At the end of the hike you will rest at Agia Roumeli, a tiny village with few restaurants and beach, will buy tickets and get the boat to Sougia. At Sougia I will wait for you to drive you back. Samaria is open 1st May to October

Recent Reviews

Kari G.United States
September 2022

George did an incredible job guiding us through the gorge. He was full of knowledge and excited to share it. He spoke excellent english and we had many great conversations about the gorge and greek history in general. The gorge was beautiful. While long in distance it was not as difficult as I was preparing for. Upon viewing our photos back at the hotel we realized what a great photographer George is as well...he really captured some great photos of us in the beautiful gorge.

Jos L.Belgium
July 2022

We booked a tour to the Samaria gorge with George, but unfortunately the gorge was closed that day because of the strong winds. George suggested a tour to the Imbros gorge instead, which was also very impressive. Afterwards he took us to the Fragocastelo beach for lunch and a quick swim. He drove us back safely through the mountains and stopped for views and other locations of intrest. Also suggested an oil factory and an winery but we passed on that. Would certainly book George again.

Kristen K.United States
July 2022

We had a great day with George doing the "lazy person's" version of the Samaria Gorge hike. George was key in getting us to the gorge-driving from Chania, the ferry from Sougia to Agli Roumeli and then back again. We hiked as much as we wanted to into the gorge and then came back down. We had a nice lunch and then swam on the beach-lovely-we were able to rent sunbeds and towels. George was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful about the gorge and did what we wanted to do. I recommend him highly!!!

Catherine T.United States
July 2021

George was incredibly helpful in guiding me through the gorge in the middle of a heatwave. I am not as fit as I was in my twenties but was very kind to me. The other great thing he did was to arrange for a private boat transfer at the end which was so efficient and welcome.

Sunny S.Netherlands
August 2020

This hike through the gorge was a delightful excursion we thoroughly enjoyed. Having an experienced guide helped a lot to not miss key views and not getting injured. Highly recommended!

Shauny J.United States
August 2019

WE LUCKED OUT! George was the perfect guide for our adventure to Samaria Gorge. My family and I highly recommend him. Regarding admin, George was prompt in responding to our booking and with all follow up communications. He ensured we were properly prepared for our hike. He was on time to pick us up plus a very safe driver with a comfortable car. Regarding the hike, George narrated all we saw, stopped at ideal intervals/locations, and took lots of family photos for us. Wonderful experience! Thx, George!

Your Chania tour itinerary

•Pick up from your accommodation or any other convenient location in the greater Chania area (the earlier the better, recommend at 6:00). •Arrival at Samaria gorge after one hour drive with stops. •You will hike for 4-5 hours, 16km in total. •Arrival at Agia Roumeli (end of hike) around lunchtime. Could swim or eat in a restaurant. •Catch a boat to Sougia at 17:30. •Arrival to Sougia at 18:30. Will pick you up and drive you to Chania with one short stop. Arrive 21:00 at your accommodation.

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Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Minivan

•Chania to Samaria entrance and return with private A/C car Citroen Berlingo. Total 7 seats including driver. •Boat from Agia Roumeli (exit of Samaria) to Sougia. •Pick up from Sougia port and drive to Chania

What's included
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Other: • 10 euro entrance per person• 25 euro boat ticket Agia Roumeli to Sougia• Around 25 euro for a meal in a local restaurant at end of Samaria gorge (optional)
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: • 10 euro entrance per person
Meeting location

63 Theotokopoulou, Chania, 731 31, Greece

Hotels 10km (5 miles) around Chania town. If in Chania city convenient location would be Talos square.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Hiking
Food And Drink
Tour reference number
434302
Languages
Greek
French
English
Activity level
High
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Chaniá best suited for?

This private tour in Chaniá is best suited for travellers who enjoy challenging hikes and want to experience the natural beauty of Samaria Gorge. It's ideal for those who are physically fit and can handle a demanding 16km downhill hike. The tour is also suitable for families with kids, but not recommended for those with leg injuries or who do not regularly hike at least 6km weekly.

What should I bring or wear?

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

-
Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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