Kourtaliotiko Gorge Snorkel Trip to the Waterfalls

Highlights

• Walk into the heart of Kourtaliotiko Gorge and discover turquoise river pools and gentle waterfalls.
• Snorkel in clear, cool fresh water surrounded by high cliffs and natural rock formations.
• Follow a guide along a safe, planned route that balances short swims, floating, and time to take photos.
• Use provided wetsuits or thermal gear where available to stay comfortable in the cooler gorge water.
• Enjoy a very different side of Crete away from sandy beaches, focusing on nature, movement, and quiet moments in the canyon.
• Combine light adventure with easy to follow safety instructions that keep the experience accessible for active guests.

Tour Overview

This four hour outing is ideal if you want to see the interior of Crete from a new angle and do more than just look at the gorge from the roadside. After meeting your guide near Kourtaliotiko Gorge, you will receive a briefing about the route, equipment, and how the group will move through the river and pools together.

You will then walk along a marked path and steps down toward the water, stopping for short explanations and photo opportunities as you go. At a safe starting point, you will put on snorkel gear and any additional equipment provided, then enter the cool water slowly so your body can adjust to the temperature.

The rest of the experience blends short swims, gentle floating, and easy movement between pools and small cascades. At each section your guide will indicate the best places to stand, sit, or float, while keeping an eye on group comfort and water flow. At the end, you will leave the river, change back into dry clothes, and walk out of the gorge with time to enjoy the views.

Typical Itinerary

1. Meet near Kourtaliotiko Gorge - Arrive at the agreed meeting point close to the gorge, check in with your guide, and go over a quick introduction to the day.
2. Safety talk and equipment fitting - Listen to a simple safety briefing, then try on wetsuits, helmets, or other gear if provided, and adjust your snorkel mask and life vest.
3. Walk down toward the river - Follow the path and steps into the gorge, taking care on uneven sections while your guide points out landmarks and viewpoints.
4. Enter the water at a calm pool - Reach the first pool, move slowly into the cool water, and get used to swimming and breathing with your snorkel equipment.
5. Snorkel and float between pools - Continue deeper along the route, alternating between short swims, gentle floating, and careful walking through shallow sections.
6. Spend time near small waterfalls - Pause at selected spots where you can sit or stand near waterfalls, feel the water on your shoulders, and watch the spray and light.
7. Exit the river and change - Leave the water at a safe exit point, return gear, and change back into dry clothes or beachwear.
8. Walk back out of the gorge - Climb back up the path to the meeting point and say goodbye to your guide, with time to take final photos of the gorge before you depart.

The exact starting point, length of the water section, and timing of each stop can change with water levels, weather, and group ability. Your guide will always adjust the route to current conditions to keep the experience safe and enjoyable.

What's Included

• Guided snorkel and swimming experience in Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
• Use of snorkel mask and basic flotation or life vest where needed.
• Wetsuit or thermal layer when provided, depending on the season.
• Safety briefing and instructions before entering the gorge and water.
• Support from a guide throughout the activity, including route choices and pacing.

Not Included

• Hotel pickup and drop off; you will travel to the Kourtaliotiko Gorge meeting point yourself.
• Food, drinks, and any snacks before or after the activity.
• Personal swimwear, towels, water shoes, or closed footwear suitable for wet, rocky ground.
• Travel insurance, medical cover, or any personal costs during your time in the gorge.
• Tips for your guide, which are optional and based on your experience.

Accessibility & Practical Info

• This tour is not suitable for guests with serious mobility issues, as you will need to navigate steps, rocks, and uneven, slippery surfaces.
• You should feel comfortable walking on uneven ground and spending time in cool water; a basic level of fitness and confidence in water is important.
• Bring a swimsuit to wear under provided gear, a towel, a change of dry clothes, and sturdy water shoes or trainers that can get wet.
• Use waterproof or secure storage for valuables, or leave them in a safe place before entering the gorge where possible.
• Alcohol and drugs are not allowed before or during this activity.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult and meet any minimum age and height requirements communicated at booking.
• Weather and water conditions in the gorge can change; the guide may shorten or alter the route if water flow increases or visibility drops.
• The meeting point and parking details will be included in your confirmation; plan extra time for mountain roads and possible delays.