Typically, the Samaria National Park unlocks its gates for visitors in early May, but access to the lower section of the gorge might be permitted in April, depending on weather conditions and the extent of maintenance required to repair the path following winter rains. Hence, the opening schedule of the Samaria Gorge can be quite variable, potentially occurring before, on, or afterMay 1st.The Samaria Gorge officially opens at 7:00 am.
To avoid the hot temperatures from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, it is recommended to start early, especially since the hike takes about 5-7 hours to complete. Keep in mind the travel time from your accommodation to the entrance of the gorge, especially if you are coming from Chania which is about 45 km away with a winding road that can take up to an hour to drive. It closes in the evening, and visitors are not permitted to enter the park beyond the first quarter of the trail after approximately 2:00 pm.
As a result, they will have to turn back and return to their starting point.The Samaria Gorge typically remains open to the public until theend of October , though it may close sooner in the event of autumn rainfall which could cause damage to the path or make the cliffs unstable. Furthermore, the gorge is also subject to closure on rainy days when there is a risk of rockfalls.
The terrain you'll encounter during the walk is primarily rocky, with a few variations. Initially, the path is made up of uneven stones. Afterward, it can be likened to a forest trail with some dirt. When you reach the riverbed, you'll be walking mainly on pebbles, which can be tiring on the feet.
To cross the river, you'll need to step on rocks or walk across small wooden bridges, which requires some sure-footedness. The path becomes relatively easy only after you exit the southern end of the National Park where it is flat and devoid of stones. However, this section lacks shade, and during summer, the last 3 km can be sweltering.
Individuals who have mobility issues, such as difficulty walking long distances or navigating uneven terrain, may find the Samaria Gorge hike challenging.
Those with certain medical conditions or health concerns, such as heart problems or respiratory issues, should consult with a healthcare provider before attempting the hike.
The hike can be physically demanding and may not be suitable for individuals who are not in good physical condition or who are not accustomed to strenuous exercise.
Pregnant women are generally advised against hiking the Samaria Gorge due to the physical demands of the hike, the rugged terrain, and the potential risks to the health of both the mother and the baby.
Before starting the hike at Samaria Gorge, it's important to consider various factors such as the length of the hike, the level of difficulty, your equipment, your fitness level, and the companions you will be hiking with.
It is advisable to wear hiking shoes and socks, although training and gym shoes may also be used, taking into consideration the sharp stones along the trail, requiring hard soles. Footwear like flip flops and sneakers may cause foot injuries and delay reaching the final destination on time.
Additionally, walking sticks could be helpful in maintaining balance throughout the hike.
Bringing water with you is essential as there are limited springs along the way, and it's better to confirm their availability at the entrance. Remember that there are no shops inside the National Park except for one coffee shop at the entrance and another at the end of the trail.
Mobile phones won't work inside the gorge, so in case of any emergency, seek help from one of the Park Rangers or Firefighters along the way. It's also recommended to bring a hat, a swimming suit, sunscreen cream, and sunglasses as you will end up at the beach.