Trekking and observation of vultures at Psiloritis Geopark

Overview

Zigzagging uphill through predator’s colonies, impressive land-forms, and cultural elements of mainland Crete. In the southwestern foothills of the massif of Psiloritis lies the Gorge of Platania offering a special tour. The marked path, bordered by vulture colony, climbs the hillside in a weaving, zigzagging manner crossing a scenery of unique land forms at the western boundaries of Psiloritis Geopark. The elevation of escalation is at the same time an entrance to the unknown world of birds of prey over the historical provinces of Amari and St. Vasilios, where the presence of even more rare big sedentary birds (predators and scavengers) has been recorded. Ideal place for bird watching raptors.

Itinerary

1. Platania Gorge

   From the western foot of Psiloritis Geopark we climb the gorge in a moderate tempo paying attention to all the aspects of this natural paradise. Besides short breaks for bird watching, we take one major break for a meal in nature under the shadow of the Kermes Oak trees.
   
   General Info
   
   Region: Rethymnon Prefecture, Western Crete
   
   Mountain range: Psiloritis Range Geopark | Meeting point: Platania
   
   Path-signaling: well marked, but easy to get confused without guidance
   
   Path condition: generally good | Path length: 6 Km
   
   Max. altitude: 850 m. | Elevation gain: 430 m. | Difficulty level: moderate

   5 hours

Meeting and pickup

In the entrance of the Village of Platania in Rethimno perfecture

Good to know

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Not ideal for people having vertigo
• Necessary personal equipment: Sunscreen oil, Hat, Sunglasses │Walking or trekking shoes │Small rucksack with your personal items

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.