The Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency has announced the reopening of the Samaria National Park for the 2026 season. Specifically, the park officially opened in its entirety on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, with access available from both entrances.

The Agency has completed all the necessary annual maintenance works on the trail, infrastructure, communications systems and all operations related to visitor access and safety within the National Park.

For the second consecutive year, a nowcasting application will be in use, providing warnings for possible severe and extreme weather phenomena within two (2) hours at specific critical points inside the gorge. Medical and nursing staff will also be present from the very first day of operation.

Visitors are reminded that, according to the Operating Regulations of the National Park (Government Gazette B’ 5266), they are required to respect and protect the natural environment of the park and comply fully with all regulations during their entry, stay and exit.

Visitors assume full personal responsibility for their safety while inside the boundaries of the National Park, accepting all potential risks, particularly in cases of emergency or unforeseen incidents. They are also expected to take any measures they consider necessary for their own protection.

Free protective helmets are available at both entrances of the National Park. The use of a helmet is optional but strongly recommended.

Visitors must also comply fully with any emergency measures or temporary restrictions regarding entry and stay within the National Park, as well as with all instructions and guidance provided by the staff of the competent authorities or their contractors.

According to the provisions approved by the Region of Crete and based on the Emergency Response Operational Plan for the protection of visitors from natural hazards in Samaria Gorge, as well as Articles 3 and 5 of Ministerial Decision ΥΠΕΝ/ΔΔΦΠΒ/92126/2333/2024 regarding the “Operating Regulation of the Lefka Ori (Samaria) National Park of Crete” (B’ 5266), the operation of the gorge may be suspended under specific conditions.