A rescue of a German hiker in the area of Gigilou, next to the Samaria gorge, has been underway since Thursday afternoon.

The 45-year-old lost his bearings and alerted the authorities. He is in good health, but exhausted and without water.

A major operation was immediately set up to locate and rescue him, which is quite difficult due to the ruggedness of the area.

After 12 hours of searching, authorities are close to him however they are unable to reach him and the assistance of the helicopter was requested.