Kayak and Hike the Coast of Crete
Paddle your way along Crete's turquoise coastline and hike through majestic gorges, fuelled by taverna feasts and tranquil swims
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking hiking and kayaking guidesGuesthouses & Hotel
5 nights in a guesthouse near Kissamos, 1 night in a beachside village guesthouse, 1 night in a hotel in ChaniaMeals
All breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 1 dinnerTransfers
Airport transfers and everything in betweenEquipment
All kayaking gear, plus snorkels and masksSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 8 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
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What's it like?
Kayak the glistening Aegean waters to reach hidden bays, sea caves, natural pools and remote villages
Hike rugged trails through olive groves and pine forests, and explore the epic Samaria Gorge - the longest in Greece
Settle into a classic Cretan taverna each day for memorable fresh feasts and local wines
Key Information
Day 1
Arrive in Crete
Welcome to Crete! Your host will meet you at Chania Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kissamos. In the evening, join your host and fellow adventurers for a welcome dinner of traditional Cretan food.
Day 2
Kayak along the rocky peninsula and hike the villagers’ path
Kayaking
Hiking
After breakfast, you'll take a short drive to the corner of Kissamos Bay for an introductory kayak session along the coastline, weaving through dramatic rock formations and sea caves before landing in natural rock pools for a snack and swim in the bay. Hike back along the old villagers’ path: a coastal route with sea commanding views. After the hike, tuck into a late lunch at a coastal taverna with amazing local seafood. Return to Kissamos in the late afternoon for a well-deserved relaxing evening.
Day 3
Hike between two coasts
Kayaking
Hiking
Start today's hike from a small traditional village on the north coast, ascending through olive groves to a spectacular ridge. Wind your way down to Falassarna Bay along sand dunes to reach the stunning beach. Hop in your kayak and paddle out to Limpet Island, the tip of the submerged ridge in the bay. If the sea is calm you'll jump in to the clear turquoise waters for a snorkel to admire the glistening shoals of fish. Kayak further along the coast beneath towering cliffs, exploring small bays before heading back to shore for a late lunch overlooking the Mediterranean.
Day 4
Kayak to a juniper forest beach and an ancient temple
Kayaking
The stunning kayak route today needs an early start and an hour's drive through the mountainous heartlands to the southwest corner of Crete. Put-in at the pebbly Krios Beach, heading along the south coast to reach quiet, white-sand beaches fringed by juniper trees. Kayaking here is a dream on the azure water, with myriad spots to jump in for a swim. Along the way stop at a hidden, heart-shaped bay at the site of an ancient temple - a perfect spot for a snack and a snorkel. Depending on conditions, it may also be possible to reach the famous Elafonissi Beach before returning to your pull-out point. As is tradition on our Crete trips, your adventure today is rewarded with a classic Cretan late lunch at a taverna in one of the villages en route back to Kissamos.
Day 5
Hike the Gorge of Vultures
Hiking
Take a break from the sea and get some kilometres in the legs today with a beautiful hike into a quiet gorge, which is a nesting site for Griffon vultures. Start high in the hills above Kissamos and enjoy some fantastic views over the bay. Descend through oak woods and semi-abandoned hamlets into a steep-sided gorge where goats often forage. The hike finishes with a steep climb to the ancient site of Polyrrinia, which is now a mixture of ruins and occupied houses. Stop for lunch at a traditional family taverna before returning to Kissamos by vehicle (there is also the option to return on foot, via a 7km path the village's children used to use to get to school in Kissamos).
Day 6
Kayak along the rugged southern coastline
Kayaking
The big day on the water awaits today with a memorable 14km paddle along the south coast from Sougia to the village of Agia Roumeli, only accessible by water. Taking only what you need for the next two days, set off in the kayaks and explore the length of this section of coast, finding small bays and beaches, rock formations and sea caves, with plenty of chances for snorkel stops as you go. The final landing spot of the week is on Agia Roumeli’s pebble beach. Once you have dried off, get to know this blissfully isolated village, devoid of cars and connected only by footpaths to the neighbouring towns. Bed down for the evening in this unique and peaceful place.
Day 7
Samaria Gorge
Hiking
After yesterday's kayaking culmination, today it's time for the pinnacle of hiking in Crete - Samaria Gorge. Cretans refer to it as 'the' gorge - the longest and the most spectacular of the hundreds of gorges in Crete, it is also one of the longest in Europe. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before hitting the trail that meanders through the national park. Starting at sea level and walking up the gorge means that you will have the path to yourself for most of this self-guided hike and be one of the first people to arrive at the famous narrow passage of Portes. Climbing steadily, the gorge rises from the rocky riverbed and colourful cliffs, through the old village of Samaria and past the church of Santa Maria before a final, tough ascent through shady pine trees to exit at the top of the gorge. You'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the route you have just conquered. Your hosts will collect you at the top of Samaria Gorge and transfer you to Chania, where you will spend your last night in Crete.
Day 8
Goodbye Crete!
Your Cretan odyssey had to come to an end eventually. After breakfast, your host will transfer you to the airport at Chania in time for your return flight home.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Chania Airport (CHQ)
Any time between 07:00-22:00 on Day 1
Ends
Chania Airport (CHQ)
Any time between 07:00-22:00 on Day 8
Transfers
Your trip starts at Chania Airport in Crete. Transfers are included if you arrive between 07:00-22:00 on Day 1, so please let your host know your flight times.
Your trip ends back at Chania Airport on Day 8, where your host will drop you off in time for your departing flight. Transfers are included between 07:00-22:00 if you depart on the final day, so please let your host know your flight times (a 07:00 departure transfer would get you to the airport at approximately 08:00, so please consider booking flights departing from 10:00 onwards).
Please note that these are shared transfers for group members arriving at different times, but your host will arrange the transfers to try and ensure that you have the shortest wait possible.
If you arrive or depart outside these times, there are taxis available. The journey to the hotel takes approximately one hour and costs €83 (check the Optional Extras below). Please contact your host to organise the transfer for you.
Travel options
If you plan to enjoy some time in Crete before your trip begins, you may wish to stay in Chania. This will allow you to join the included group arrival transfer as pickups are also available from the city upon request. Please contact your host if you would like to arrange this.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5 – Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
The accommodations will generally have a Continental or Greek buffet breakfast each day. On some mornings with an early start, the hotel will pack the breakfast to take with you to have during the morning break after the first hike or paddle of the day. Each day either lunch or dinner is included, at local tavernas, cafes or as a picnic. This will be done the Greek way: with a large quantity of various dishes, sharing everything! You will sit down for a fair amount of time for these meals, sometimes late in the middle of the day, and adapt to the local pace. This is very much the Cretan approach to eating.
There are excellent options for vegetarians. Other dietary requirements can be catered for, please let your host know in advance.
What is the accommodation like?
Kissamos
You’ll stay at Mulberry Hill, a locally run guesthouse in a hillside village about 4km outside of Kissamos, with stunning panoramic views. The building is a traditional village house which has been recently renovated and consists of individual rooms and apartments within the same building. There is an incredible outdoor terrace where you will enjoy meals and drinks with your group. Accommodation will be in same-sex twin-share rooms with a private bathroom located close to your bedroom, although some rooms do have ensuite facilities.
A limited number of single-occupancy rooms are also available. Depending on the size and make-up of the group, these may be at a slightly smaller property owned by the same family, located about 500m away within the same village. Breakfast will be served at the main house with the rest of the group.
Agia Roumeli
You'll spend one night at the Calypso Hotel, located just 20m from the beach in the village of Agia Roumeli. You'll stay in comfortable twin-share rooms with air conditioning, and most of them have excellent balcony views overlooking the Libyan Sea (while Calypso is your host's first choice in Agia Roumeli, you may stay at Hotel Tarra Lodge or Gigilos Hotel depending on availability).
Chania
On your last night you will stay at the Kriti Hotel in Chania; a modern 3-star city hotel with a swimming pool, located right next to the ancient city walls. Rooms are twin-share, ensuite and have city views. The hotel is in a prime location, close to the old harbour and the centre of Chania town, making it a great base to explore from.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
This trip has been rated as Moderate
This is an active trip with full days of kayaking and hiking, however, the pace is relaxed and there are plenty of rest, snack and swim stops in beautiful secluded spots. You will need good fitness levels and be happy hiking or paddling for up to 6 hours on the bigger days towards the end of the trip.
We use double sit on top kayaks and we will pair you up in balanced teams for the kayaking. A limited number of single kayaks are available if you would prefer, please request this in advance with your host upon booking.
The hottest months are July and August with daytime high temperatures ranging from 29-36 degrees Centigrade (82-95F), a "normal" day would be in the middle of this range. By the sea there is, of course, usually a breeze which moderates how this feels and you'll be in and out of the refreshing water! June and September normally deliver fine sunny days and moderate-to-hot temperatures with daytime highs between 23 and 29 degrees C. The water is a beautiful temperature for swimming and is particularly warm in September. October is still a fine month with excellent sea temperatures, with the bonus of a less crowded island. There can be the odd chilly day and evening. Daytime peak temperatures range from 17 to 26 degrees C.
Sea Temperatures
June: 20-22°C July and August: 24-27°C October: 23-24°C
Weather conditions can be very changeable in the Mediterranean, with wind and sea conditions having a significant impact on the choice of kayaking routes. Some flexibility in the route planning is built in, with your guides taking decisions based on the conditions each day to offer you the best experience possible.
I'd love to go back
Amaazing food and I could spend all day in the crystal waters. Thanks to the awesome guides for the warm, easy welcome to Crete. I loved it!
Fantastic week in Crete
Fantastic week in Crete, the mix of kayaking and hiking was well planned and worked perfectly. Our itinerary changed a little bit due to weather conditions but we didn’t miss out on anything. Lots of sunshine, clear waters, beautiful scenery and delicious food. Thank you Manu, Miltos and Fiona
An excellent adventure
A really fun adventure across the North-West of Crete! We had a group of 8 people which was a good group size for a trip like this and I enjoyed that activities alternated between hiking and kayaking, so you avoided becoming overly fatigued with either. The itinerary understandably changed on some days to accommodate for wind and weather on the sea, however we still got to do all of our itinerary. Highlights included snorkelling the WW2 mining pylons and shipwreck.
A note is that although the itinerary says you finish your activities at lunch, this is usually a late one and so your day's activities can actually finish at around 2pm, and with a late lunch you may arrive back at the hotel for 4pm or 5pm. I think this was good as we were all tired following the day's activities and it was nice to relax in the evening by the hotel's pool/beach area with some downtime.
Definitely bring water shoes if you can and a drybag with proper straps. Try not to overpack on the second to last night when you are kayaking 16km and then hike the Samaria gorge, as you will have to carry this kit with you. The only part of the trip that isn't guided is the hike on Samaria gorge, you navigate this with your group, however it is a straight path and you cannot get lost. Food was excellent and plentiful, sharing several dishes between the group. Thank you Manu, Miltos and Fiona for a great trip!
Great Adventure in Great Company
A fabulous week, which makes you forget the grey skies back home! Sunshine, clear water, very knowledgeable and friendly hosts, nice group The mixture of kayaking along the coast and walking the gorges is very enjoyable.
Kayak & Hike MBA review October 24
We had a brilliant week. The mixture of sea kayaking and hiking was spot on. All of the accommodation was of excellent standard. The food was superb. We were off the beaten track and saw a wonderful array of wildlife (vultures, Mediterranean Monk Seal with pup, kingfishers, lion fish, praying mantis). It was great to have the expertise of local guide Miltos on some of our trips. His knowledge of the local plants is excellent.
“a truly exceptional holiday”
Being a relatively novice kayaker and, at 69, being somewhat older than the usual participant, I was slightly concerned that this holiday might be a bit much for me but in the event I had no problems. Even with the unseasonable weather (wind, rain and a thunderstorm) the holiday was challenging rather than intimidating, and possibly more satisfying because of the conditions. Organisation was superb throughout: good communication meant stress-free pickups despite some people’s flights being delayed, hotels were all more than adequate considering we really only used the rooms overnight, and the alterations to the program to adapt to conditions and events was appreciated. For example, the first day was changed to put us in more sheltered waters in the lee of the peninsula, and when the Samaria Gorge was unfortunately closed on the last day, we had an alternative walk of similar length on the coastal path. All the kit provided seemed to be of good quality, we had training on the first day to show that we could right a capsized kayak and get back aboard unassisted, and I felt that team (always 2 people with us when we were kayaking) were keeping an eye on us and conditions at all times, so no health & safety concerns. Finally, can’t finish without mentioning the food - those late lunches were amazing and, coming after all the exercise was finished for the day, could be enjoyed to the full (often rendering an evening meal unnecessary- just a snack needed) Thanks to Fiona, Manu, Miltos and Nora for a truly exceptional holiday. Pete
Sue. September 2024 - Hosted by Fit in Crete
I really enjoyed my time in Crete with our Hosts, Fiona, Manu, Miltos and Nora. I knew before I booked that I wouldn't be able to hike the Gorge and other arrangements were kindly made for me which meant returning with Manu, Miltos and the Kayaks after the paddle to Agia Roumeli and being dropped at my accommodation in Chania, to be picked up next day to join the rest of the Group after their hike. The Kayaking was superb and I liked that it challenged us due to the occasional windy stretches and the Snorkelling was great as I saw a large sea urchin and an octopus. We had some fabulous late lunches at various Tavernas each day before heading back to the Hotel bar. As I was in Chania for an extra couple of days at the end of the week I also booked an additional day of Kayaking with Manu and Miltos. My thanks go to the team at Fit in Crete for a really enjoyable holiday.
A fabulous kayaking and walking adventure in Crete
I had a fabulous kayaking and walking adventure in Crete. Our first base in Kissamos was a lovely quieter Greek village. Away from the busier tourist areas of Crete. We also stayed a night in Agia Roumeli and Chania both charming places! I booked last minute but they were very helpful and managed to accommodate me and accept my reservation Both the kayaking and walking were wonderful! We were gradually introduced to longer and more challenging trips during the week. Giving us the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful nature and Greek culture. Which was of course wonderful! All our guides, Fiona Manu Miltos and Nora, both on water and on our beautiful walks were very knowledgeable, kind and tbh were a lot of fun! The taverna lunches were really delicious and a perfect way to relax after our adventures earlier in the day! We had mostly sun but also were lucky enough to have varied weather conditions. Which for me made it more interesting and gave us some variety while kayaking and walking. At the end of the trip they gave us all a beautiful personalised map which outlined all our fabulous experiences we had had during the week. Thank you so much to all our guides for all your great work and making a really memorable holiday!
Adventure it sure was.
Great mix of kayaking and walking and it turns out, Crete does have some rain. So we did get a few heavy showers on one of the walks and encountered the edge of a storm on one of the kayaks. But for me the few windy days and some heavy showers added to the experience. The kayaks were all sit on tops so ultra stable with a mix of doubles and singles allowing the group to mix it up a bit. The kayak trips varied in distance and location so we never paddled the same place twice. On the longer paddles there were plenty of stops and snacks aplenty plus welcome opportunities to swim and snorkel. The walking also varied and like the paddles started off small and built up to longer and more challenging distances and terrain at the end of the week. All the accommodations were modern, well located and served delicious meals. Though for me the best food was found during the lunch stops which changed every day so we had a lovely variety of tastes to choose from. Many thanks to Fiona, Manu, Miltos and Nora for making my first time to Crete such a memorable experience. As the weather prevented us from walking the final ravine I now have an excuse to return.
A really enjoyable holiday
Manu and his team are very knowledgeable about the area and the kayaking felt particularly special as you get to empty coves and beaches, and swim/snorkel in areas where there are no other people. The kayaking in the blue , clear and clean water was a highlight for me. The tavernas we visited for meals are very local and the food was great. Weather/winds changed a few of our plans but manu always organised a suitable alternative. I would say we didn’t feel like a group until the last couple of big days, so they were the highlights for me.
This was a great holiday,
This was a great holiday, the guides were excellent. As well as having great fun hiking and kayaking we learnt a lot about Crete and ate delicious local food at lovely tavernas. The weather became too hot to walk the Sameria Gorge but we were looked after and were offered alternative choices. The sea around Crete is warm and clear so the kayaking and snorkelling was beautiful. I wish I was there now.
A great adventure!
I just returned from this wonderful trip to Crete. We were there during the heat wave and managed to have an incredible time because of the attention and flexibility of the local tour company we were taken care of by - Fit in Crete. These four guides checked in with us frequently and moved plans around to make sure we were safe and also that we got the trip we wanted. Moreover, they were extremely knowledgeable and fun. All there was left to do was enjoy the trails and that beautiful sea with snorkels and kayaks, explore sea caves and shipwrecks, learn about the local flora, and enjoy the delicious food Crete is famous for.
I had an incredible week in Crete on this trip. Manu & Miltos were excellent guides and we always felt in really safe hands. It’s a well thought-out itinerary as the distances we kayaked and hiked got progressively longer over the week, which gave us the chance to adjust (particularly for the kayaking, as I didn’t have much experience here!). Highlights for me were kayaking through the clear blue waters at Elafonissi, snorkelling from the remote beaches we landed at, and trekking the Samaria Gorge early in the morning before all the other tourists arrived. It was also great trying tasty Cretan food for the first time. Lots of choice for a veggie too. Highly recommend!
Fiona, Manu, and Miltos put together the most amazing kayaking and hiking adventure. All of the accommodations were clean and comfortable and there are not enough great things to say about the restaurants and food chosen. It was truly a once in a lifetime adventure. I loved everything about this trip, especially our guides and the new friends.
What an incredible week in Crete organized to perfection by Fiona & Manu. A great progression of activities in duration and difficulty before the peak fun on the last two days. Manu & Miltos led us through the best kayak and hike adventures. Crete is beautiful and the family-style food feasts at the late lunches are chef’s kiss. Highly recommend! Book now.
The local hosts are an Italian/British couple, Manu and Fiona who have lived in Crete for quite a while. They are ably assisted by Miltos. Communication before and during the trip was good. We enjoyed excellent weather, lovely swimming, snorkelling and kayaking, scenic and at times dramatic walks and some really delicious food. Our itinerary had to be changed a bit due to factors beyond the control of our hosts. We had a couple of windy days which made kayaking difficult in the area in which we were based so we had a much longer drive down to the south coast to find calmer waters. For me, the highlight was the final walk: going up Samaria Gorge (while 95 % of walkers were coming down).
Crete is beautiful! This tour is a great way to explore the land and the sea. A lot of the tour is self-guided though, and are not full days of activities. Nice accommodation and the tour leaders were lovely!
Fantastic trip. Nice mix of kayaking and hiking. A more relaxed trip than others I've done with Much Better Adventures, but moderate difficulty sums it up and I was looking for something less challenging this time, so fitted the bill perfectly. Highlight of the trip is the journey on the last 2 days. Kayaking to Agia Roumeli and then hiking up the gorge. If you have any energy left after the gorge it's worth continuing up to the spring partway up Mount Gingilos for stunning views and rock formations.
This was an awesome trip that totally exceeded by expectations. I am used to travelling on my own, so was a bit apprehensive of a group holiday, but we had so much fun and I learnt so much from the guides about Crete, food and the local plants and wildlife.
There was a good variety of activities throughout the trip, balancing kayaking, hiking, swimming and socialising. There was also a gradual build up to a 15km kayak in one day, followed by the epic Samaria gorge - as every bit as lovely (and challenging!) as expected.
The start of October was the perfect time to go, both in terms of the weather (mid to high 20s) and hardly anybody else there, as out of season.
My girlfriend and I really enjoyed our trip to Crete. All locations were different: we explored some famous places, as well as some hidden gems. Travelling in October was perfect: the water was warm, not too hot for hiking and not busy with tourists.
The guides (Manu, Miltos, Fiona) and the group were exceptional! We learned new skills for kayaking and snorkelling. I'm not a confident swimmer, so the guides made sure I could explore at my own pace and improve my swimming skills while the rest of the group could swim further.
We used everything from the kit list. Since we were lucky with the weather, wetsuits were not a must.
This was a truly amazing trip with a wonderful trio of guides and a group of fantastic like-minded people. Each excursion was expertly arranged with lots of exploration whilst in the kayaks, snorkelling and hiking. The guides were knowledgeable about the landscape, wildlife and culture which made for such an authentic experience and I very much enjoyed the cheeky samples of a variety of fruits from the trees and plants. We were provided with snacks during the day and then usually a late lunch in which there was so much food, communally shared, that you were full until breakfast the next day. The local dishes were delicious and for someone who is vegetarian and struggles with dairy and eggs, the team made no issue with this and made sure I had enough food to eat, which was highly appreciated. However, I think I could have lived off the bread and oil alone as it was amazingly tasty.
I had only tried sea kayaking once before so I was a bit apprehensive on how I would fare, but the team were so patient, kind and helpful, especially when I struggled at times. I was initially in a single kayak, as I travelled solo, but it was no issue when I asked to be in a double. I would say that the fitness rating is accurate as a good level of endurance is required for the longer days of kayaking and hiking although there are adequate stops throughout the days to refuel.
This was such a fantastic trip, and well worth the money spent. I will be recommending this to others. I loved every minute of it and I can't thank the team enough for such wonderful memories made!
We kayaked to hidden beaches and caves, snorkelled and swam in crystal blue waters, hiked impressive gorges, and dined together at authentic Cretan tavernas. The week's activities unfolded in a way that each day was more impressive than the last. Manu, Fiona and Miltos are outstanding hosts, each with their own unique perspective on Crete and expertise across the various activities. They worked seamlessly to ensure we had the most amazing experiences. I loved the variety of activities and how much of Crete we were able to explore!
This was a very enjoyable trip with a good balance of time on/in the water and hiking the spectacular scenery. As a novice kayaker/snorkeller it was great to experience such warm clear water and build my skills during the week. Prior kayak experience probably not necessary as those first couple of days are used to gain confidence. I think June was a good time of year to visit as the weather was warm (30C most days) without being oppressively hot. Plenty of sun protection still required though! Our hosts Manu, Fiona and Miltos were very welcoming and very knowledgeable on Cretan culture and Flora & Fauna. They were also able to adjust the itinerary to make best use of the weather. The week starts very relaxed and ramps up to some long days paddling, finishing with the hike up Samaria Gorge. All were fantastic but it does require a degree of fitness to fully appreciate (as it says in the trip notes). The late lunches in local tavernas was an unexpected bonus and ice-cold beers at the end of a long day were very welcome too. Thoroughly recommended.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- Single and twin sit-on-top kayaks
- Paddles
- PFDs/Lifejackets
- Snorkel and mask
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Main pack or suitcase
- 20-30 litre drybag with backpack straps for carrying
- Small drybags for kayaking, including waterproof phone case
CLOTHES
- Swimwear
- Loose, long sleeved natural fibre top (for kayaking)
- Long sleeved rash vest that you can swim in
- Thin long sleeved thermal top and neoprene longjohns
- Lightweight waterproof boating jacket
- Neoprene socks, booties or water shoes
- Swim hat, goggles and mask/snorkel if you prefer your own over those provided by the host
- Lightweight walking shoes, boots or sandals for the hikes
- Lightweight hiking wear with good skin coverage
- Casual clothes for downtime in Kissamos, Sougia and Agia Roumeli
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Changing robe/towel (optional)
- Lightweight towel
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, suncream
- Insect repellant
- Waterproof camera (or small drybag for electronics)
- Refillable water bottle
- Small personal first aid kit
- Electrolyte tabs/Rehydration salts (important in hot weather)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Single room in Kissamos (High Season from June to September)
Payable Before Departure
Single room in Kissamos (High Season from June to September)
… Per Night
Single room in Kissamos (Low Season in May + October)
Payable Before Departure
Single room in Kissamos (Low Season in May + October)
… Per Night
Twin/double room in Kissamos (High Season from June to September)
Payable Before Departure
Twin/double room in Kissamos (High Season from June to September)
… Per Night
Twin/double room in Kissamos (Low Season in May + October)
Payable Before Departure
Twin/double room in Kissamos (Low Season in May + October)
… Per Night
Optional private room upgrade (high season)
Payable Before Departure
Optional private room upgrade (high season)
… Per Person
Optional private room upgrade (low season)
Payable Before Departure
Optional private room upgrade (low season)
… Per Person
Airport transfer Chania to Kissamos (each way)
Payable Before Departure
Airport transfer Chania to Kissamos (each way)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 156kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Sit-on-top kayaks are used on this trip, so proper clothing and protection for the lower body, legs and feet is important. Your host provides a mixture of single and double kayaks. The singles are streamlined, relatively narrow sit-on-top touring kayaks. The doubles are wider boats and extremely stable, sacrificing some speed. Your host will determine the best distribution of single and double kayaks depending on the makeup of the group.
Both the singles and doubles are fine for tall people, there is no constraint on the legs. There is no weight limit for participants, since this is not an expedition-style kayak trip, and you won't be carrying luggage, camping and other equipment.
If you weigh more than 100kg or are over 1.95m tall, please check with us before booking this trip as we'll need to ensure that the kayaks and equipment provided is suitable for your comfort and safety.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion and are non-compulsory on this trip. Of course, if you feel that your guides provided an exceptional experience then you are welcome to tip as much as you feel is appropriate. You should factor in tipping 10% on top of the bill in any bars and restaurants during the trip.
You'll be able to leave your luggage at the hotel in Kissamos for the duration of the trip.
Cretan water is clear and safe to drink. You'll be able to refill at the hotels and guesthouses throughout this trip. Be sure to bring along a reusable water bottle or two to carry your own supply on the hikes and kayak stretches. Your guide will ensure there is enough water for the group on the longer days where refill spots are scarce.
This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
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