Private tour in Chania Vangelis S

Samaria Gorge Panoramic Views & Light Mountain Hiking

5.0

(8) reviews

-
Hours icon 6 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 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 6 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 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

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.

Overview of your Chania tour

Your Guide Born and raised in Chania, Crete, I have a deep connection to this land. As an IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide & Instructor, I have years of experience guiding across Greece, the Alps, the Himalayas, and the USA. I chose this 3- to 4-hour hiking tour to show you the entrance of the gorge, the White Mountains (summits over 2,200m), and breathtaking panoramic views. It is my pleasure to show you the mountains where I started my career at the age of 12! FOOTWEAR & PREPARATION ADVICE Even on this relaxed panoramic tour, we walk on uneven mountain terrain and stone paths. Standard city sneakers or smooth-soled running shoes are not ideal for this terrain. Our Tip: It is highly recommended to wear proper hiking shoes or sturdy trail-running shoes with deep rubber soles for the best grip. Unsure about your shoes? Message me after booking to check together if your footwear is suitable!

Recent Reviews

Jennifer S.United States
July 2026

Van was an excellent guide! We enjoyed our day with him!

Mireille F.Canada
October 2025

The excursion to Samaria Gorge was wonderfull. Our guide, Vangelis, was so nice and friendly. He was very attentive to our needs and gave us numerous information on Crete. I recommend Vangelis without hesitation for his exceptional service and knowledge.

Marcia H.United States
July 2025

Vangelis was an excellent guide. He was very easy to talk to and very attentive to our needs. As he was very experienced in hiking and guiding, he quickly adapted the itinerary to our needs. He grew up in the area and knew so many of the locals. We would highly recommend him!

Chris V.
May 2025

Vangelis provided us with a great tour. The hike to view Samaria gorge was beautiful. He was very knowledgeable about the area and Greece in general. Transfers were very comfortable. He even managed to fit in a drive by tour of Chania. Highly recommended.

Andrea L.
May 2025

If we could give 10 stars we would…he was amazing! Can’t recommend this tour with Vangelis enough. Vangelis knows what he’s doing…a professional mountaineer that knows the history of the area and is personable and fun! What could be better!?! This was definitely a beautiful and memorable day! Thank you Vangelis.

Sarah L.United States
June 2023

Vangelis is an amazing guide and excellent hiker. Would highly recommend. Definitely the highlight of the trip!

Your Chania tour itinerary

Morning Meeting: We meet directly at your hotel or accommodation to start our day. Drive & Coffee Stop: We'll have a one-hour drive to the gorge entrance at Xyloskalo, located at 1,250m. There, we'll have a 20-minute stop for coffee, local snacks, and photos. The Hike Up (1.5 to 2 hours): Our hike begins next to the entrance of Samaria. Walking at a relaxed and comfortable pace under the shade of trees, we follow the trail up toward the Kallergi Refuge at 1,680m. Panoramic View Break (50 mins): At the refuge, you'll enjoy a fantastic panoramic view covering 70% of the Samaria Gorge, the surrounding 2,000m peaks, and both the Cretan and Libyan seas. We will stay for photos, coffee, and conversation. The Hike Down (1.5 hours): We head back down following the same scenic trail, enjoying the mountain landscape from a different angle. Authentic Cretan Lunch & Return: Our hiking day ends in the Omalos area, where you can enjoy a homemade local meal before driving directly back to your accommodation.

Want to customize this tour?

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.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Other

ransportation 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 150€ (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. Option C (VAN Service - more than 4 people): For larger groups requiring a spacious private VAN, the service and pricing will be customized and quoted upon request based on your exact group size.

What's included
Other: For your absolute peace of mind, I carry a fully equipped, professional mountaineering first-aid kit and a Thuraya satellite phone, ensuring we have direct voice connectivity everywhere.
Private Guide
Equipment: Professional Trekking Poles (batons). Lightweight Mountaineering Helmets are also available upon request for your peace of mind.
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Food and drinks (about 20€ for the optional lunch and 10€ for snacks). Note on Meals: The optional lunch features authentic, homemade local food at a mountain taverna. Vegetarian options or adjustments for specific food allergies can be easily arranged—just let me know via the message board!
Food Drinks Snacks
Private Transportation
Private Transportation With Driver
Public Transportation
Accommodation
Meeting location

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.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Hiking
City Highlights
Tour reference number
670946
Languages
English
Greek
Activity level
Light

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Chaniá best suited for?

This private tour in Chaniá is perfect for travellers who want to explore the stunning Samaria Gorge with a personal touch. It's ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace, enjoy panoramic views, and wish to avoid the crowds. With Vangelis S., an IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide, you'll have the opportunity to discover hidden trails safely and gain deeper insights into the local area.

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?

Is this private tour in Chaniá suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

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What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 6 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 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 6 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 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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