Canyoning · Heraklion
How to choose
Both tours run 8h and are operated by Explor.gr with identical physical demands, rated "Occasionally sporty". The 150 € gap separates two very different gorges. The Sarakina Gorge near Ierapetra is a river trekking experience: wading, scrambling and swimming through a carved canyon with pools and natural slides. At 650 €, it's the entry point into Cretan canyon terrain. The Tsoutsouros Gorge tour pushes into proper canyoning at 800 €, with technical descents and rope rappels that justify the premium. Pick Sarakina if you want a full-day gorge immersion without committing to vertical descents. Book Tsoutsouros if controlled free-falls and anchor work are the point.
Compare · 2 offers
Our picks
Private River Trekking Excursion in the Sarakina Gorge near Ierapetra, from Heraklion
At 650 €, the private Sarakina Gorge river trek delivers 8h of canyon immersion with no rope work required, perfect for first-timers.
Canyoning Excursion around the Tsoutsouros Gorge from Heraklion
The Tsoutsouros Gorge canyoning at 800 € adds technical rappels to the equation, making it the higher-intensity pick for those after real vertical exposure.
Frequently asked questions
What's the most intense moment in the Tsoutsouros Gorge excursion?
The rope rappels down the gorge walls are the peak adrenaline hit. You're descending vertical rock faces with water rushing below, which is a step beyond anything you encounter on the Sarakina river trek.
Do I need canyoning experience to book either tour?
No prior experience is required. Both tours are rated "Occasionally sporty", meaning they're accessible to fit beginners. Explor.gr guides cover technique on-site before any technical sections.
Is the water cold in the gorges?
Crete's canyoning season runs May through September. Water temperatures in the gorges vary depending on the month, but expect refreshing conditions even mid-summer, particularly in shaded sections deep inside the canyon.
How far are the Sarakina and Tsoutsouros gorges from Heraklion?
Both gorges are located in southern Crete. The Sarakina Gorge sits near Ierapetra, roughly 100 km from Heraklion. Tsoutsouros is closer, on the south-central coast. Hotel pickup is included for both tours.
Can I book a private group for these excursions?
The Sarakina tour is explicitly listed as a private excursion, meaning the guide is exclusively yours for the 8h day. Check with Explor.gr on group arrangements for the Tsoutsouros option.
Best time to go
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11.9°C | 50.6 mm | Good |
| February | 12.4°C | 57.2 mm | Good |
| March | 14°C | 54.5 mm | Good |
| April | 17°C | 14.8 mm | Peak |
| May | 21°C | 6.3 mm | Peak |
| June | 25.2°C | 2.4 mm | Peak |
| July | 27.5°C | 2.6 mm | Peak |
| August | 27.3°C | 2.3 mm | Peak |
| September | 24.4°C | 5.7 mm | Peak |
| October | 20.3°C | 34.2 mm | Peak |
| November | 16.6°C | 40.3 mm | Peak |
| December | 12.4°C | 82.9 mm | Good |
Practical info
Equipment
Wear a swimsuit under your clothes and bring water shoes or old trainers with grip. Both tours cover 8h of active terrain, so pack sun protection, a dry change of clothes for the return drive and at least 1.5 liters of water.
Getting there
Hotel pickup is included for both tours within the designated zone linked in the special terms, so confirm your address with Explor.gr at booking.
See also
Other activities in Heraklion
Updated March 2026