Breaking News: German Tourist Disappeares in the Samaria Gorge

• A 21-year-old tourist from Germany has gone missing in Crete.
• He was last seen hiking Samaria Gorge in Chania on Thursday, February 13th.
• Local police, firefighters, and the Coast Guard are searching the area.
• A car rental agency reported the disappearance.
• Search efforts include land, coastal, and water areas near Agia Roumeli.
• Please contact local authorities if you have any information.

A 21-year-old German tourist has gone missing in Crete, leaving local authorities scrambling to locate him. He was last seen on February 13th after setting out to explore the famous Samaria Gorge in Chania. Since then, there’s been radio silence—no calls, no social media check-ins, nothing.

According to reports from neakriti.gr (read the full story in Greek here), the tourist was dropped off at Omalos, near the Xyloskalo area. From there, he entered the gorge for what should’ve been a routine hike. “He hasn’t been heard from since,” the report highlights.

Authorities Search Land and Sea

Chania’s police and fire departments jumped into action after a car rental agent reported the tourist missing late Thursday night. The agent became suspicious when the rental car hadn’t been returned as expected.

At first light on Friday, search teams fanned out across the Samaria Gorge and surrounding areas. Helicopters, drones, and specially trained ground units combed the rugged terrain. The Coast Guard began monitoring Agia Roumeli’s shoreline to cover all possibilities. There’s a chance the tourist reached the coastal village at the gorge’s exit before disappearing.

“While details remain unclear, every option is being considered,” says local authorities through media updates.

Was the Hike Too Much?

Samaria Gorge is a frequent bucket-list destination for adventure-seekers in Crete. However, it’s no walk in the park. It’s not the first time tragedy strikes here. The hike is challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain, from its towering cliffs to narrow pathways. Weather conditions on February 13th could’ve also played a role. Rain or sudden changes in temperature can turn this postcard setting into a survival test.

Rescuers cling to hope as they sift through clues, but as hours turn to days, the gravity of the situation grows.

Anyone with information must contact local authorities immediately (dial 112). Let’s hope this story gets a happy ending.