TRAVEL TO THE CYCLADES
The trip begins with a transfer from Athens, or from the nearby port of Piraeus, Naxos or Amorgos, depending on your island of choice. Ferries run regularly to both islands, with options available for a quick connection from Piraeus or from Santorini. The ferry ride to Naxos from Piraeus is approximately 5 hours, while the trip from Naxos to Amorgos typically takes 1-2 hours. Upon arrival, our team will assist with transfers to your accommodations, ensuring a smooth start to your island adventure.
CLOTHING AND GEAR
For hiking through the rugged terrain of Cycladic islands, sturdy, flexible hiking boots are essential. Opt for boots with good ankle support to navigate the rocky trails comfortably. Even in the summer months, temperatures can vary with cooler evenings and unpredictable weather conditions, especially at higher altitudes. A windproof or waterproof jacket, layers such as fleece or synthetic fabrics, long hiking pants, and breathable shirts are recommended. For the beaches, casual wear and light footwear will suffice, but don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection from the sun.. Your trip documents will include a detailed packing list specifically prepared for your itinerary. We kindly ask everyone to read it carefully and be properly prepared for the hiking trip.
ACCOMMODATION
In Amorgos, Iraklia, Donousa and Koufonisia, you’ll experience the charm of traditional guesthouses and hotels, many of which are family-owned and located in picturesque villages. On hiking days, accommodations are typically basic but comfortable, offering cozy rooms, private bathrooms, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea or the surrounding mountains. Depending on your route, you may also enjoy dinner at local tavernas where freshly caught seafood and authentic Greek dishes await. For any special preferences, we can help with advance bookings or offer more detailed accommodation information upon request.
MEALS
Meals on the islands reflect the rich culinary traditions of the Cyclades. A hearty breakfast is typically served between 7 AM and 9 AM and may include local cheeses, yogurt with honey, fresh bread, fruit, eggs, and coffee or tea. During the hikes, lunch can be either a packed meal or enjoyed at one of the tavernas along the way, where you can sample fresh seafood, grilled meats, or traditional Greek specialties like moussaka or souvlaki. Dinner at the village tavernas is the highlight of the day, where the freshest ingredients from local farms and the sea come together in a multi-course feast. Expect meze (small appetizers), grilled fish, lamb, and salads, along with local wines or the famous "tsipouro" spirit.
SAFETY MATTERS
Our hiking tours are led by professional mountain leaders, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience and with passion for the outdoors. They usually work in the region of the hiking trip, have professional training, are trained for emergency situations, regularly upgrade their qualifications and work in accordance with Greek regulations.
In cases of self-guided hiking, you must be properly dressed, follow the safety rules and make realistic time calculations for daily crossings – preferably according to the hiking guidelines that we provide. Our self-guided hiking trips are organized so that they do not require specific abilities and skills or gear, unless it is clearly specified in the trip description. You can expect not so well maintained trails like the ones in the Alps or in N, Europe or N. America, however, equipped with direction signs. Exposed sections of the paths may not be secured on the self-guided routes. However they are considered safe provided that you follow the basic safety rules for hiking in the islands. We will give you any necessary information.
Island-trails are a natural environment with a high level of risk, so we insistently ask all guests to engage into activities according to skill and fitness level. If you have questions about the safety rules, please contact us.
INSURANCE
It is important to have an appropriate insurance that covers the hiking activity. You don't need to include the climbing activity in your insurance, unless you are planning to climb during the hike. However, it is important to mention that there is no HEMS in Greece. We mostly depend on the state operated EMAK service (Joint Rescue Coordination Service) which is not as quick and efficient as rescue operations abroad.
WEATHER IN THE CYCLADES
The weather in the Cyclades is typically sunny and warm, especially from late spring to early autumn (May to September). The island's dry and sunny climate makes it perfect for hiking, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) during the summer months. However, it can be cooler in the evenings and at higher altitudes, particularly in the mountainous areas of Amorgos. Thunderstorms are rare but possible in late summer, particularly in August. It is advisable to check weather forecasts and be prepared for changes in weather conditions, especially when hiking at higher altitudes.
For more detailed weather conditions and updated forecasts, we provide guidance closer to your departure date.
