Samaria Gorge closes on 27 September amid storm risk
Published on 09/27/2026 at 16:52 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS
Samaria Gorge is closed at both entrances on 27 September 2026 after weather forecasts exceeded the safety limits for operating the national park in Crete. The closure affects the northern entrance at Xyloskalo and the southern entrance near Agia Roumeli.
Samaria Gorge closure reaches both entrances on 27 September
The Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency, known as NECCA, announced that visitors cannot enter the gorge on Sunday, 27 September 2026. The decision follows a forecast of cloud, rain or showers and possible thunderstorms in both entrance areas.
The agency’s notice says the predicted rainfall is above the operating thresholds approved by the Chania regional authority. The closure for 27 September therefore covers the full visitor route rather than only a section of the trail. The official NECCA ticket portal records the preceding closure and the forecast used for the decision.
NECCA said that a revised morning forecast showing improved conditions could prompt a new announcement at 6.30am on 27 September 2026. That possibility does not itself confirm an opening, so the announced closure remains the relevant access position for visitors planning a Sunday walk.
Weather controls access through the Samaria Gorge
The closure is linked to the physical character of the route. The official park guidance describes a rocky main path with several river crossings, while warning visitors to follow rangers and signs concerning falling rocks.
Xyloskalo is the northern access point near the Omalos plateau, while Agia Roumeli provides the southern entrance on the coast. The route follows the gorge between the mountain and sea sides, making the two entrances important for both full crossings and shorter visits.
For travellers, the 27 September closure means that neither a north-to-south hike nor a partial walk from Agia Roumeli is available under the official notice. The weather decision also matters to transport plans, because the northern approach is reached by road while the southern approach depends on boat access.
Visitor planning changes at both Samaria entrances
The park’s rules allow access through the main footpath only, and visitors are expected to remain on that route. Overnight stays inside the park are not permitted, and the guidance advises carrying water, food and suitable footwear because there are no shops inside the gorge.
Autumn conditions can change the practical plan even after a closure is lifted. Rain may affect the path, while wind can affect boats serving Agia Roumeli, so a confirmed reopening does not remove the need to check the latest park notice before setting out.
Visiting Samaria Gorge: what travellers from Western Europe should know
- Samaria Gorge is officially closed at Xyloskalo and Agia Roumeli on 27 September 2026 because forecast rain and thunderstorms exceed the approved operating limits.
- The closure affects the main visitor route and both entrances, so travellers should not plan a full crossing or a shorter walk from the southern side for 27 September 2026.
- Xyloskalo is the northern approach near Omalos and can be reached by road. Agia Roumeli is the coastal southern approach and is accessed by boat.
- The main path is rocky and includes river crossings. Park guidance says visitors must stay on the central route and follow ranger instructions and warning signs.
- Greek is the official language of Greece, and the national currency is the euro.
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Frequently asked questions about Samaria Gorge
When does the closure take place at Samaria Gorge?
The official closure applies to both entrances on 27 September 2026 because forecast weather exceeds the approved operating limits.
Which entrances are closed at Samaria Gorge?
The closure covers Xyloskalo near Omalos and the southern entrance near Agia Roumeli on 27 September 2026.
Where is Samaria Gorge and how do you get there?
Samaria Gorge is in western Crete, with the northern entrance reached by road near Omalos and the southern entrance near Agia Roumeli reached by boat.
