Gorge of the Dead: Hiking, Tour and Car Rental Guide

Gorge of the Dead

The Gorge of the Dead or Zakros Gorge is located near the village of Ano Zakros, where the trail starts. The Gorge of the Dead ends in the small town of Kato Zakros. The gorge derived its name from the burial grounds found in its caves. During the Minoan period, the gorge was used by the Minoans as a resting place for the dead, hence the name “Gorge o the Dead”. Despite its name, the Gorge of the Dead remained a beautiful place frequented by visitors. Hiking is prominent in the area. The Gorge of the Dead is easily accessible. Anyone is welcome to explore the historical gorge. The Gorge of the Dead is considered an easy hike for many. One doesn’t have to be an experienced hiker to be able to hike through the gorge.

Visitors who plan to get to the Gorge of the Dead may book a car rental going to the area. Hikers may leave their cars in the parking area next to the entrance to the gorge. Car Rental Crete is the best option for travellers who want to roam the island. It allows travellers to create their own itinerary without the need to follow a certain schedule, as many tours offer. Renting a car in Crete is ideal because it allows one the freedom to go wherever and whenever they want. Car rental in Crete may require a few documents like an identification card, passport, and a credit or debit card. Drivers must be the legal age of 21 and must own a valid driving licence.

What is the archaeology of Gorge of the Dead?

The Gorge of the Dead is a small gorge in eastern Crete, which starts after the village of Ano Zakros and ends at the village of Kato Zakros. The gorge is one of the most impressive in Crete, with its steep sides and harsh rock formations. The Gorge of the Dead is a sacred and historical place in Crete. The gorge contains several caves. These caves were used as burial grounds during the Minoan period, hence the name “Gorge of the Dead”. The exit of the gorge is located near the village of Kato Zakros, and it leads to the famous Zakros Minoan Palace. The Minoan Palace of Zakros was the last of the major palaces to be discovered. It is the most isolated and the smallest among the Minoan Palaces.

How is the Gorge of the Dead preserved?

The Gorge of the Dead is a small gorge in eastern Crete that played a significant role during the Minoan period. The Gorge of the Dead serves as a burial ground during that time. It is a historical and sacred place that must be restored and preserved. A part of the Sitia Geopark and a protected area of the European Ecological Network Natura 2000, the area of Zakros is well-preserved and protected. These protected areas of Zakros include its coastline, the mountains west, east, and south. The flora and fauna, archaeological sites of the Minoan, sites of palaeontological interest, and other historical settlements.

How does the Gorge of the Dead map look?

Below is the image of the map of the Gorge of the Dead.

Gorge of the Dead Map

What are the hiking routes for Gorge of the Dead?

The Gorge of the Dead is very accessible and easy to reach. It is no wonder that hiking in the area is considered easy. It requires no special skill or equipment to be able to hike in the area. Visitors can take a scenic 4 km hike along the well-marked trails. The hike will take about 2 hours of walking time. The Gorge of the Dead is both lovely and accessible. Hikers have two options to enter the Gorge of the Dead. The first entry point is after the small town of Ano Zakros, 38 km south of Sitia. The second entrance is 4 km from Ano Zakros, and it is a shortcut. From the second entrance, the hike down the exit will take about 2 hours, shortly before the Minoan Palace and the Kato Zakros beach. Hiking in summer is relatively easy in the Gorge of the Dead. The first few walks are on a steep slope, and it is not difficult. One must go around the path carefully. Hikers will find themselves at the rear end of the gorge after 15 minutes. Simply follow the riverbed, which is dry during summer. The exit of the gorge is near the village of Kato Zakros. Hikers will need to turn left and take the dirt path, leading to the historical Zakros Minoan Palace.

Sign at the Entrance of Gorge of the Dead

How long does the Gorge of the Dead hike take?

The Gorge of the Dead hike is relatively easy compared to other gorges on Crete. It will take around 2 hours of walking time. The Gorge of the Dead is both lovely and accessible. Hikers may enter the gorge through two entrances. The first entry point is after the village of Ano Zakros, 38 km south of Sitia. The other entry point is 4 km from Ano Zakros, and it is quite a shorter route. Hiking through the Gorge of the Dead requires no special skill in hiking. People of different ages are allowed to hike as long as they are physically fit. The paths are well-marked and easy to follow. Visiting the Gorge of the Dead during the springtime is perfect. It allows visitors to enjoy the place before the crowds of the summer arrive.

Do you need a guide to hike the Gorge of the Dead?

No, a guide won’t be needed when hiking the Gorge of the Dead. Considered to be an easy hike, the Gorge of the Dead is perfect for people who love nature sightseeing. Visitors can take a scenic 4 km hike along the well-marked trails. The hike will take about 2 hours of walking time. The Gorge of the Dead is both lovely and accessible. Hikers have two options when entering the gorge. The first entry point is after the village of Ano Zakros, 38 km south of Sitia. The second entrance is 4 km from Ano Zakros, and it is quite a shorter route.

When is the best time to visit Gorge of the Dead?

The best time to visit the Gorge of the Dead is during Spring. March through May is spring in the Gorge of the Dead. During the springtime, flowers are in full bloom in the area and the temperature is warm enough. Spring is the perfect season for outdoor sightseeing and hiking. Visiting the Gorge of the Dead during the springtime will allow visitors to enjoy the place before the crowds of the summer arrive.

What is the importance of Gorge of the Dead to the history of Crete?

The Gorge of the Dead is of significant importance to early Minoan history. The Gorge o the Dead is considered a sacred place. The Gorge of the Dead contains a number of caves. These caves served as burial grounds during the Minoan period. That explains why the gore is called “The Gorge of the Dead”. Aside from its historical value, the pathway through the Gorge of the Dead to Kato Zakros is significant because it is the last section of the European E4 path. The European E4 path begins in Spain, and it continues through France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and crosses Greece to end at Kato Zakros.

Gorge of the Dead Sign with a map

What are the nearby attractions in Gorge of the Dead?

Listed below are the nearby attractions in Gorge of the Dead.

  • Minoan Palace of Zakros: Situated 350 m back from the small town of Kato Zakros, is the Minoan Palace of Zakros. The Minoan Palace of Zakros was the last of the major palaces to be discovered. It is the most remote and the smallest of all the Minoan Palaces. Its strategic position shelters it from the strong north winds of Crete.
  • Kato Zakros Beaches: Kato Zakros has three beaches, the South beach, the North beach, and the smallest beach. The South Beach will be seen upon arriving at Kato Zakros. It is the largest among the three. The North beachside is a small pebbled beach where boats are visible. The smallest among the three is the most picture-perfect. It is enclosed between rocks.
  • Pelekita Cave: One of the largest caves in Crete is the Pelekita cave. The cave measures 310 metres in length and has an altitude of 100 metres. It has impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and a small lake. The cave of Pelekita is believed to have been inhabited since the Neolithic period.
  • Glaros: Situated approximately 0.6 nautical miles south of Koufonisi and about 500 metres east of Kato Koufonisi is the island of Glaros. Glaros is an island belonging to the Lesser Cyclades. Despite being small, flat, and uninhabited, there are few things to do near Glaros like snorkelling and island hopping.

What is the best way to get from Gournia Archaeological Site?

A rented vehicle is the best way to get from the Gournia Archaeological Site to the Gorge of the Dead. The travel time via car is 1 hour and 47 minutes. The Gournia Archaeological site is 86.7 km from the Gorge of the Dead. Travellers can easily book a ride and avail of the services in Crete. One can easily book Crete Car Rental online to avail of the service. Renting a car has a lot of advantages when travelling. It allows travellers to have more flexible time, the way they want it. Car rental allows one to go to different places without following a certain schedule. It provides privacy for travellers who prefer to travel alone and away from crowds. When travelling, it is highly recommended to rent a vehicle for more convenience.

Is Gorge of the Dead suitable for children?

Yes, the Gorge of the Dead is suitable for children. The Gorge of the Dead is generally considered an easy hike. It is an easy gorge walk to take with kids. Hiking through the Gorge of the Dead would take around 2 hours. During the walk, hikers will get to enjoy the nice scenery of beautiful flowers around the area, especially during spring. Children will get to see goats roaming around the area too. An early morning hike is recommended to avoid the scorching heat of the sun, as the vicinity doesn’t have much shade. The Gorge of the Dead is one of the best kid-friendly activities in Crete.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

  • Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee.
  • Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18 years old. In order to rent a car you need to be at least 21 years old. In addition, the driver must have a valid driving licence for at least 12 months and essential documents like an national ID or passport.
  • Driver’s gender: Women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
  • Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of cars to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one big factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
  • Documents needed for renting a car: One important document needed for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Tourists may easily get to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination, and duration. The average cost of renting a car in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Crete car rental rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental companies in Crete offer an online booking system, whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, make sure to check and secure all the requirements needed.

Last updated on August 4th, 2024