Günlük Doğal Orman ve İklim Değişikliklerinin (OFYPEKA) организации объявил о reopening of Samaria Gorge for the 2026 season. Gorge, one of Greece's most popular natural attractions, will open today, Tuesday, 19 May, and operate fully from both entrances after the completion of all required annual maintenance works. These works included the maintenance of the walking trail, infrastructure, communication systems, and all operational services linked to visitor access and safety.

OFYPEKA stated that it has secured the use of a nowcasting application for a second consecutive year. The system will provide alerts for potential severe or extreme weather events up to two hours in advance at specific critical points within the gorge. Medical and nursing staff will be present from the first day of operation to support visitor safety.

According to the National Park’s operating regulations, visitors must respect and protect the natural environment and comply with all rules during entry, exit, and stay within the gorge. Visitors assume full personal responsibility for their safety upon entry, accept the risks involved—particularly in cases of sudden or unforeseen events—and must take any measures they deem necessary for their protection.

OFYPEKA has provided free helmets at both entrances of the National Park. Their use is optional but strongly recommended. Visitors must also comply fully with any emergency restrictions or access prohibitions, as well as with all instructions issued by authorised staff or contractors.

The gorge’s operation may be suspended under specific conditions, as outlined by the Regional Authority of Crete and the approved Emergency Response Plan for the protection of visitors from natural hazards in the Samaria Gorge.

COMMENT: This is a big deal for hikers and nature lovers! But do you think the new safety measures will actually prevent accidents? What's your take on the helmet recommendation?