Departure from Chania, scenic countryside drive.
- Timeline
- Tour Plan
- Characteristics
- Cancel Policy
Botanical Park & Omalos Full-Day Private Tour
Step Into Crete’s Natural Heartbeat
Immerse yourself in the colors, fragrances, and landscapes of Crete on this unforgettable journey to the Botanical Park and the majestic Omalos Plateau. Designed for nature lovers and curious travelers, this full-day private tour offers the perfect combination of tranquility, authenticity, and scenic exploration.
What You’ll Experience
Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete
Start your day surrounded by beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains, the Botanical Park is a natural haven filled with exotic plants, native herbs, and trees from all over the world. Enjoy a relaxed walk through shaded trails while learning about Crete’s traditional agricultural wisdom and the healing power of local herbs.
Omalos Plateau & Samaria Entrance
Next, we ascend into the mountains to reach the stunning Omalos Plateau, situated at 1,200 meters altitude. This lush landscape marks the entrance to the world-famous Samaria Gorge. While we won’t hike the gorge, you’ll have the chance to explore the peaceful surroundings, breathe in the mountain air, and marvel at the dramatic natural vistas.
Traditional Cretan Lunch
After soaking in the alpine views, we’ll take you to a local taverna where tradition and taste meet. Enjoy a lovingly prepared Cretan meal made with fresh, local ingredients. From savory pies to garden-grown vegetables and tender meats, this is authentic island cuisine at its best.
Return to Chania
After a full day of discovery, we’ll begin the relaxing drive back to Chania, filled with beautiful memories and a renewed appreciation for Crete’s natural treasures.
What’s Included
- Entry ticket to the Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete
- Private transfers in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional driver with local knowledge
- All applicable Greek taxes & liability insurance
What’s Not Included
- Meals & beverages (lunch, snacks, water)
- Personal expenses
- Tour guide services (available upon request)
What to Bring
To make the most of your day, we recommend bringing:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Light jacket or sweater (especially for mountain breezes)
- Water bottle to stay hydrated
- Camera or phone for gorgeous nature shots
- Light snacks (especially handy for little ones or mid-day munchies)
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Why Choose Vittorakis Travel?
- Nature-Based Expertise: We know Crete’s landscapes intimately and love sharing their secrets.
- Private, Comfortable Transfers: Relax in modern vehicles driven by professionals.
- Authentic Experiences: From botanical beauty to mountaintop meals, this is real Crete.
- Tailored Hospitality: Every guest is unique. We create tours that match your style and pace.
2) Is this tour child-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the nature trails and the animals at the Botanical Park.
3) Do we walk the Samaria Gorge?
No, but you’ll visit the picturesque entrance and surrounding area of this natural wonder.
4) Is the lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but we’ll take you to a highly recommended taverna with local pricing.
5) Can I book this tour for a special occasion or group?
Absolutely! We’re happy to arrange a customized experience for events, family gatherings, or large groups
Book Your Botanical Escape Today
Let the beauty of Crete bloom around you. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind in peaceful surroundings, this tour is a perfect choice.
Timeline
-
08:00 – 09:30
-
09:30 – 11:30
Visit the Botanical Park & Gardens.
-
11:30 – 13:30
Explore Omalos Plateau and Samaria Gorge entrance.
-
13:30 – 15:00
Enjoy lunch at a traditional mountain taverna.
-
15:00 – 17:00
Return journey to Chania.
The excursion is arranged upon request. We can also
adapt this tour for larger groups. Please contact us for a customized tour and a quote.
Characteristics
- Duration: 9 hours.
- Activity Level: Easy – Accessible for all ages.
- Tour Type: Private and customizable.
- Perfect For: Families, couples, friends, and solo travelers.
Cancel Policy
Free Cancellation/Date Change/Full Refund:
If the tour is canceled due to weather conditions, our own responsibility, or other external factors (e.g., vehicle malfunction, driver illness, etc.), customers are eligible for a free cancellation or date change with a full refund, provided the cancellation occurs at least 72 hours before the scheduled tour start time. This policy also applies to cancellations made by the customer up to 72 hours before the scheduled start time.
50% Charge:
For cancellations made between 24 and 72 hours before the scheduled tour start time, a 50% charge of the tour’s value applies.
100% Charge:
For cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled tour start time, a 100% charge applies.
Minibus Reservation Cancellation:
A free cancellation of the minibus reservation is available up to 7 days before the scheduled start time of the minibus use. For cancellations made within 7 days of the scheduled start, please refer to our general cancellation terms or contact us for more information on applicable charges.
Cancellation Process:
Cancellations must be made in writing, either via email or through our official contact form on our website. A cancellation confirmation will be sent within 24 hours of receiving the request. For phone cancellations, a written request is required to complete the process.
Date Changes:
You can change the date of your booking free of charge, provided you notify us at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time of the tour. For date change requests within 24 hours before the start, we reserve the right to apply additional charges depending on availability.
Refund Method:
Refunds will be processed within 10 business days from the date of cancellation, using the same payment method as the original transaction. For any delays or questions, please feel free to contact us.
Terms of Third-Party Providers:
In cases where our tour includes services from third-party providers (such as transportation or local guides), any cancellations are also subject to the cancellation policy of our partners. If any changes affect the services of third-party providers, we will promptly inform you of any adjustments to the cancellation terms.
Deposits and Payments:
If you have made an advance payment or full prepayment, you have the option to transfer the amount to another date or use it as a credit for future use, provided that the cancellation is made at least 72 hours before the tour.
COVID-19 Protection Measures
- The drivers regularly clean their hands
- Regular temperature checks for staff
- Our transport vehicles and equipment are regularly disinfected
- Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
- Temperature check upon arrival for tour participants
- Social distancing is enforced throughout the experience
All members of our company follow all the special health protocols under which tourism businesses operate as part of the measures taken against the coronavirus COVID-19. All participants of a tour are required to follow all individual protection measures and distances inside and outside the vehicle, wear their personal mask, and also fill out the necessary passenger form before boarding according to the applicable legislation (review of measures at the start period).
If you wish, we would greatly appreciate it if you could provide us with:
Any photographic material from the entire tour (with you in it or without).
Your impressions, ideas, and suggestions for the organization, execution, communication, and cooperation with our team.
Your 5-star review at one of the following links. Your contribution is very important for improving our service provision.
Why Book With Us?
- Low Price Guarantee
- Local – Native Tour Organizers
- Extensive Knowledge of the Area
- Free Last-Minute Changes
- Continuous Customer Service
Step Into Crete’s Natural Heartbeat
Immerse yourself in the colors, fragrances, and landscapes of Crete on this unforgettable journey to the Botanical Park and the majestic Omalos Plateau. Designed for nature lovers and curious travelers, this full-day private tour offers the perfect combination of tranquility, authenticity, and scenic exploration.
What You’ll Experience
Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete
Start your day surrounded by beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains, the Botanical Park is a natural haven filled with exotic plants, native herbs, and trees from all over the world. Enjoy a relaxed walk through shaded trails while learning about Crete’s traditional agricultural wisdom and the healing power of local herbs.
Omalos Plateau & Samaria Entrance
Next, we ascend into the mountains to reach the stunning Omalos Plateau, situated at 1,200 meters altitude. This lush landscape marks the entrance to the world-famous Samaria Gorge. While we won’t hike the gorge, you’ll have the chance to explore the peaceful surroundings, breathe in the mountain air, and marvel at the dramatic natural vistas.
Traditional Cretan Lunch
After soaking in the alpine views, we’ll take you to a local taverna where tradition and taste meet. Enjoy a lovingly prepared Cretan meal made with fresh, local ingredients. From savory pies to garden-grown vegetables and tender meats, this is authentic island cuisine at its best.
Return to Chania
After a full day of discovery, we’ll begin the relaxing drive back to Chania, filled with beautiful memories and a renewed appreciation for Crete’s natural treasures.
What’s Included
- Entry ticket to the Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete
- Private transfers in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional driver with local knowledge
- All applicable Greek taxes & liability insurance
What’s Not Included
- Meals & beverages (lunch, snacks, water)
- Personal expenses
- Tour guide services (available upon request)
What to Bring
To make the most of your day, we recommend bringing:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Light jacket or sweater (especially for mountain breezes)
- Water bottle to stay hydrated
- Camera or phone for gorgeous nature shots
- Light snacks (especially handy for little ones or mid-day munchies)
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Why Choose Vittorakis Travel?
- Nature-Based Expertise: We know Crete’s landscapes intimately and love sharing their secrets.
- Private, Comfortable Transfers: Relax in modern vehicles driven by professionals.
- Authentic Experiences: From botanical beauty to mountaintop meals, this is real Crete.
- Tailored Hospitality: Every guest is unique. We create tours that match your style and pace.
2) Is this tour child-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the nature trails and the animals at the Botanical Park.
3) Do we walk the Samaria Gorge?
No, but you’ll visit the picturesque entrance and surrounding area of this natural wonder.
4) Is the lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but we’ll take you to a highly recommended taverna with local pricing.
5) Can I book this tour for a special occasion or group?
Absolutely! We’re happy to arrange a customized experience for events, family gatherings, or large groups
Book Your Botanical Escape Today
Let the beauty of Crete bloom around you. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind in peaceful surroundings, this tour is a perfect choice.