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Hike to the Kameni Volcano

  • Santorini, Greek Islands, Greece

Last updated: 30 March, 2024

Cruising the island’s half-submerged, cliff-rimmed volcanic crater is like floating in an open-air geological museum.

A full-day boat trip takes in three equally extraordinary attractions: climbing the charred, hissing crater of Palia Kameni, wallowing in the sulphurous hot springs of Nea Kameni, then shinning up the steep islet of Thirassia, a charming time warp miraculously overlooked by mass tourism.

Logistics

Price from: £25
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 10+
When: All year around
Duration: 6 hours

Getting there & doing it

It’s possible to charter a private boat, but this excursion is most easily done through one of the organised group tours. Boat trips depart mostly from Skala port below Fira (accessible only by cable car) or sometimes the main port of Fira Athinios. Some tour operators offer hotel pick up for an additional charge.

Be sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, and take a pair of sensible shoes – flip-flops aren’t suitable for scaling a smoking crater.

When to do it

Tours run daily from April to October.

Every attraction on Santorini is overcrowded during July and August – best avoided if possible. The volcano is naturally baking hot and can reach ferocious temperatures during the midday heat.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Santorini

Your journey begins based on your selection: with pickup from Athinios Port, or without pickup from the Old Port of Fira. The first stop is the volcano, where you’ll have 1.5 hours to hike its rugged trails and explore its unique landscape. A 5€ entrance fee is required to access the volcano. Your tour escort will guide you along the paths, sharing fascinating stories about its history and eruptions. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for this moderate hike, which rewards you with stunning panoramic views at the summit. Next, sail to the hot springs at Palea Kameni. The boat will anchor 30-50 meters from the springs, requiring a swim to reach the warm, sulfur-rich waters. This activity is recommended only for strong swimmers due to the distance. The final stop is Thirassia, where you can explore its charming villages, take in breathtaking views, or savor a delicious meal at a traditional taverna before returning to your starting port.

Price €30

Min age 0

Rating 4.39 / 5 [1138 ratings]

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  • Santorini

Your adventure begins at the old port of Fira, where you'll board a traditional boat to explore Santorini's volcanic wonders. The first stop is the famous volcano, where you’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring its unique terrain. A 5€ entrance fee grants access to the volcanic trails. Guided by your tour escort, you’ll uncover key landmarks and fascinating stories about the volcano’s history and eruptions. The hike requires moderate effort and sturdy footwear, so come prepared for an unforgettable journey to the summit with breathtaking views. Next, sail to the natural hot springs at Palea Kameni. To reach the warm, sulfur-rich waters, you’ll need to swim 30-50 meters from the boat to the shore. This activity is recommended only for strong swimmers due to the required distance. Relax in the therapeutic, mineral-rich waters before returning to the boat, carrying unforgettable memories of Santorini’s natural wonders.

Price €25

Min age 0

Rating 4.14 / 5 [1033 ratings]

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  • Santorini

"The best value-for-money excursion cruise in Santorini" Set sail from Ammoudi Port cruising along the coastline and visit the two most iconic sights of the island. Get to hike the volcano and swim at its Hot Springs, where you can treat yourself with a natural spa in thermal mixed with volcanic mud waters. One of the best-kept secrets of Santorini is the islet of Agios Nikolaos, next to Ammoudi port. One can reach this only by a short and quite tricky hike or by boat. You will enjoy a short swim and maybe take the opportunity and take a memorable dive from the cliff. The Motor Boat is 10m in length, spacious cruising hull boat with one 400 HP engine. It is constructed and designed to provide comfort, with its exterior shaded area and its interior seating space with a table and WC.

Price €275

Min age 1

Rating 4.75 / 5 [29 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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