Samaria Gorge: Complete Guide to Access by Car

How to Get to Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is the largest gorge in Europe (16 km) and one of the most popular destinations in Crete. The entrance is located in Omalos, 42 km south of Chania.

Route by Car

From Chania: Follow the national road south, passing through Fourne and Lakki. The road is well paved until Omalos. The climb takes about 45 minutes.

From Heraklion: Drive to Chania (150 km, 2 hours) and then follow the same route to Omalos.

Parking in Omalos

In Omalos there is a large free parking lot next to the entrance of the gorge (Xyloskalo). In the summer it fills up early, so arrive before 8:00. The entrance to the gorge opens at 7:00.

The Problem of Return

The gorge is a one-way trip – you start at the top (Omalos) and end at the bottom (Agia Roumeli). From Agia Roumeli, you take a ferry to Chora Sfakion or Sougia. Therefore, you need a return plan.

Solutions for Return:

• Boat + Taxi: Take a ferry from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion and then a taxi or bus to Omalos
• Organized Excursion: Many companies offer excursions that include transportation
• Two cars: Leave one car in Chora Sfakion and drive the other to Omalos

Practical Information

• Canyon route duration: 5-7 hours
• Entrance: 5 EUR (free for children under 15)
• Operating period: May – October
• What to bring: Water (2-3 liters), vegan, sunscreen, good hiking shoes

Car Rental for Samaria

Η JK Tours offers special packages for visitors to the gorge. With airport pickup and drop-off in Omalos. Contact us for more information.

For access to Samaria and to other destinations, choose a vehicle from our fleet.