Van was an excellent guide! We enjoyed our day with him!
Private tour in Chania Vangelis S
5.0
(8) reviews
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Vangelis S.
5.0
Guide rating
53
Reviews
Tours delivered
10 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.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Vangelis S.
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!
Van was an excellent guide! We enjoyed our day with him!
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.
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!
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.
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.
Vangelis is an amazing guide and excellent hiker. Would highly recommend. Definitely the highlight of the trip!
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.
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.
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.
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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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
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