Santorini Volcano Tour: What to Expect on the Caldera,

Sailing into the caldera of an active volcano, hiking a crater and swimming in sulphur hot springs — here's what it's really like.

Nea Kameni — the dark island in the middle of the caldera — is the youngest volcano in Greece, last erupted in 1950 and still rumbling. A volcano tour is the single most distinctive thing you can do on Santorini. Here's exactly what happens, what to expect, and how to choose the right tour.

The standard itinerary

Board at Athinios or the Old Port of Fira (depending on tour type)
Sail 25 minutes across the caldera to Nea Kameni
Disembark and hike 30–40 minutes to the main crater (gentle uphill, loose volcanic gravel)
Re-board, sail 10 minutes to Palea Kameni for a swim in the sulphur hot springs
Optional add-on: continue to Thirassia island for lunch and beach time
Return to port — total trip 3 to 6 hours depending on tour

The hot springs — honest expectations

The boat anchors 50 metres offshore in the bay of Palea Kameni. You jump in cold seawater, swim toward the shore through patches of warm sulphurous water mixed with iron-rich orange mud. The water is warm not hot — about 32–35°C in summer. The orange mud will stain a white swimsuit permanently. Bring a dark one.

Which boat to choose

Traditional wooden boat (Kaiki)

The most authentic and cheapest option (€30–€45). Up to 80 passengers, basic, no shade on the upper deck. Choose if you want the cultural experience and don't mind crowds.

Catamaran day cruise

Combines the volcano stop with sailing the caldera, lunch on board, multiple swim stops and sunset (on evening cruises). Up to 20 passengers, much more comfortable, €130–€220 per person. Our recommendation for most visitors.

Private RIB / speedboat

For families and small groups who want flexibility on stops and timings. €600–€1,200 for the boat for the day.

What to bring

Closed-toe walking shoes or sturdy trainers (volcanic rock is sharp)
Dark swimsuit and small towel
Sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
1.5 L water per person (only premium tours include water)
Cash for the small entrance fee at Nea Kameni (€5 in 2026)

Is the hike difficult?

Moderate. The path rises 130 metres over 1.2 km on loose gravel — about 30–40 minutes uphill at a slow pace. Most reasonably-fit adults manage it. There is no shade. If you have knee problems, bring trekking poles. Children from age 7 typically enjoy it; under 5 will struggle.

Common questions about santorini volcano tour

How long does a Santorini volcano tour take?

The classic traditional-boat tour with crater hike and hot springs takes 3–4 hours. Full-day cruises that add Thirassia island and sunset over Oia take 8–10 hours.

Is the volcano in Santorini still active?

Yes. Nea Kameni last erupted in 1950 and is monitored continuously. The volcano is dormant, not extinct, and you can see and smell sulphurous fumaroles near the main crater.

Can you swim in the Santorini hot springs?

Yes. You anchor in the bay of Palea Kameni and swim to the warm sulphur water near the shore. The water is warm rather than hot (32–35°C in summer) and contains iron-rich orange mud that will permanently stain light-coloured swimsuits.

What should I wear for the volcano hike?

Closed-toe walking shoes or sturdy trainers (the path is loose volcanic gravel), light long sleeves or a hat for sun protection, and a dark-coloured swimsuit underneath for the hot springs stop. Carry at least 1.5 L of water.

Is the Santorini volcano tour worth it?

Yes — it is the most distinctive single experience on the island. Sailing into the caldera of an active volcano, hiking the crater, and swimming in warm sulphur water is something you cannot do anywhere else in Greece.

Santorini Volcano Tour: What to Expect on the Caldera, Crater & Hot Springs