The gorge of Samaria is situated in the National park of Samaria, in the White Mountains in West Crete. The park is supervised by the Department of Forestry and the gorge is generally open only from the beginning of May to the end of October.

In winter, high water makes the gorge dangerous and impassable. It will also be closed on rainy days (too dangerous because of rock falls).

• the path is maintained and is substantially better than “normal” paths in Crete.
• there are wardens along the way (in radio contact with each other) who will help you in case of trouble or injury.
• there is also (in theory) a doctor stationed in the abandoned village of Samaria.
• there are well-maintained springs on the way so that you do not have to carry much water.
• there are toilets in several places and plenty of rubbish bins.
• you also get a set of rules, aimed at protecting the park and making the experience safe and pleasant for everyone.