Hiking Crete: Gorges & Coastal Walks - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the physical rating of this hiking tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, meaning it is an active trip involving trekking through rocky landscapes.

• What kind of activities are included in this tour?

  The tour includes guided hikes through Agia Irini Gorge, the famous Samaria Gorge, coastal walks from St Pavlos and Marmara to Loutro, and a coastal hike to Sfakia. It also features a local Cretan family-style dinner and all transport between destinations and included activities.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include swimming in Agia Roumeli and hiking the Aradena Gorge.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You will stay in small, family-run hotels or pensions for 6 nights. These are typically clean, safe, simple, and in convenient locations, though some may lack elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff. Fans can be requested for hot nights.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 14 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• Is there an extra charge for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers are not charged a single supplement as group trips are designed for shared accommodation. Single travelers are paired with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room, which may be smaller.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must provide at least USD200,000 in coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. Additional coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage is highly recommended.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  Travelers must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above may join if accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.

• What are the main highlights of the hiking tour?

  Highlights include hiking the iconic Samaria Gorge and the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), discovering the stunning beauty of the southern coast, enjoying local food and drink, and visiting charming towns only accessible by boat or on foot.

• What forms of transportation are used on this trip?

  Transportation will primarily involve private vehicles and walking.

• Is tipping customary on this trip?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Europe. General guidelines are 10% for wait staff, €1-2 for other service providers, €6-8 per day for local guides, and €30-€40 per person per week for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO).

• What is the currency used and what should I know about money on the trip?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, but their functionality can vary, so do not rely on them exclusively. A combination of Euros, traveler's cheques, and cards is best, along with an emergency fund of at least USD $200.

• What safety considerations should I be aware of in cities?

  In major cities, it's important to use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings. It is recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis when out at night.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to a local laundromat. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal laundry.

• What kind of experience can I expect on this tour?

  This hiking tour transports you to another world in the rocky landscapes of Crete, offering trekking in the Samaria Gorge, the White Mountains, and exploring parts of the southern coast and local towns only accessible by foot or boat. It also includes a delicious meal prepared by a local family.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating an active level of travel.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will stay in small, locally-run family hotels or pensions for 6 nights. These accommodations are typically clean, safe, and centrally located, though they may vary in standard and facilities, potentially lacking elevators or air-conditioning. Fans can be requested.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, supported by local guides.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation between destinations and for included activities will be via private vehicle and walking.

• What are the main highlights of this hiking tour?

  The main highlights include hiking the Samaria Gorge and the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), experiencing the stunning beauty of the southern coast, enjoying a dinner with local food and drink, and visiting towns only accessible by boat or on foot.

• Are there any optional activities available during the trip?

  Yes, optional activities include swimming in Agia Roumeli (free) and hiking to Aradena Gorge from Marmara.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 14 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• Is there an age limit for this tour?

  Participants must be a minimum of 12 years old and a maximum of 100 years old.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  No, this group trip is designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers will be paired with someone of the same sex.

• Can I request my own room?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops, though these may be smaller than double-occupancy rooms.

• Is tipping customary in Greece for this tour?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Europe. A general guideline is 10% for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €6-8 per day is recommended, and for your CEO, €30-€40 per person per week is a guideline.

• How much emergency money should I have access to?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation with a minimum of USD200,000. It is also strongly recommended to cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• What currency is used and what are the best payment methods in Greece?

  The local currency is Euros. While credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful and ATMs are available, it's recommended not to rely solely on them. A combination of Euros, traveler's cheques, and cards is best. Be aware that credit card purchases may incur fees.

• What health information should I consider before traveling?

  It is essential to consult with your travel doctor regarding any required inoculations and up-to-date medical travel information. You should carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements, as the tour often visits remote areas away from medical facilities. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• Are there specific rules or codes of conduct for participants?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated, and using them contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against the tour's philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What are the safety and security considerations for this trip?

  It is recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons and will accompany you on all included activities. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities and consider staying in groups or taking taxis at night in cities. Water-based activities should only be done with guides.

• What resources are available for LGBTQ+ travelers regarding safety and travel considerations?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, to ensure comfort and safety throughout the trip.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to the nearest laundromat. It's advisable to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal laundry.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the trip?

  In a dire emergency, first call the local office. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. Alternatively, call the sales team numbers provided in the pre-departure information.