OVERVIEW
Karpathos is one of the most striking Greek islands, with a rich and contrasting backdrop of cliffs, forests, beaches and small plains, making it ideal for hiking holidays and outdoor activities in Greece.
The unspoilt landscape is dotted with caves, small streams and springs, providing a unique environment for the island’s endemic flora and fauna. Indeed, a 154-hectare section across northern Karpathos and Saria (an islet so close that it was once connected to Karpathos) makes up a Natura 2000-protected zone and is home to rocky caves that provide a habitat for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal.
With over 50 marked hiking trails across Karpathos, trekking enthusiasts can experience a variety of terrains and difficulty levels and enjoy the island’s traditional villages (Olympos, Aperi and others) and some of the most striking sea views in the Aegean.
We've handpicked five of our favourite walks to suit a range of trekking preferences. So, lace up your walking boots and join us as we head out on some of the best hiking trails in Karpathos.
For tips while hiking in Greece and other useful information, see the Get Planning section below.
DON'T MISS
Highlight hiking trails in Karpathos
- Olympos – Diafani
One of the most captivating and challenging hiking paths in Karpathos takes you from the time capsule village of Olympos in the north up to the 700m-high chapel of Profitis Ilias and down to the little harbour village of Diafani on the east coast. Although red markers line the route, we recommend joining a guided tour. Reaching the chapel of Profitis Ilias, you are gifted one of the most breathtaking views of the Aegean. And continuing onwards, you pass the little church of Agios Konstantinos before arriving at Diafani, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and a well-deserved taverna meal.
- Diafani – Papa Minas beach
The Aegean Sea is your companion on this walk along the east coast of Karpathos, from Diafani to Papa Minas beach. Passing pine forests and olive groves, you arrive at small, pebbly Kambi beach, where you can rest for a while. A little path continues south from here with yet more gorgeous views of olive trees and the Aegean before reaching your destination. The flat pebbles, tamarisk trees and clear, sheltered waters of Papa Minas beach make this an idyllic hike to combine walking with relaxing on the beach.
- The footpath from Aperi
From Aperi, a medieval village in the heart of Karpathos, you follow a trail naturally sculpted by the elements until you reach a fork where you'll choose between descending to Limniati Cave (and ascending afterwards) or continuing towards Achata beach. On the former, you get to explore the cave's striking stalagmites and stalactites, while the latter leads to one of the best beaches in Karpathos, nestled within a natural cove.
- Avlona – Ancient Vroukounta
A fascinating route near Karpathos' northern tip, starting in the rural settlement of Avlona and ending in Ancient Vroukounta (known as Vrykous when it was one of Karpathos' four ancient cities). It reached its peak in the 4th and 3rd centuries BC, but remains show the area was inhabited in Minoan times. The stone path you follow is thought to be 2,000 years old, taking you past the tiny whitewashed chapel of Agia Marina and on to Vroukounta, famous for its rock-carved tombs. The path leads to the end of the barren cape where a cave houses a tiny open-air chapel of St John the Baptist (which hosts the popular feast of Agios Ioannis). Nearby is a beach where you can reward yourself with a swim in blue-green waters.
- Bonus: Saria isle
Accessible only by boat from Diafani or Pigadia (Karpathos’ main port), uninhabited Saria is an islet that boasts both ancient remains and an important natural habitat. You disembark at a beach near the chapel of Agios Spyridon and follow a footpath to Palatia beach (4-4.5hr), passing the settlements of Argos and Palatia, famous as a one-time base for Saracen pirates. Crossing Saria Gorge, you arrive at Palatia Beach where your boat will be waiting to return you to Diafani or Pigadia. A guide is highly recommended for this route.
How do you get to Karpathos island in Greece?
- Karpathos has an airport with daily direct flights to Athens all year round. It is also connected with seasonal international charter flights in spring & summer months.
- The island has two ports, a central one in the capital Pigadia and a smaller one in Diafani. It is connected to the port of Piraeus all year round with 2-3 sailings a week, but bear in mind that it's a long journey (about 20hrs). During the summer months, Karpathos is also connected to other Aegean ports such as Heraklion and Sitia in Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, Halki and Kassos.
When is the best time of year to enjoy the hiking trails of Karpathos?
Karpathos is perfect for summer holidays as it has wonderful beaches and traditional villages. The best time to enjoy hiking in Karpathos is spring (April & May) as nature is at its best and the temperature is ideal for outdoor activities. September & October in Karpathos are also great months for trekking as the weather is a little cooler and the landscape begins to change.
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Winter
Hiking trails in Karpathos (included here):
- Olympos – Diafani: 10km (5-7hrs) | Difficulty level: Challenging
- Diafani – Papa Minas beach: 5km (50mins-1hr) | Difficulty level: Easy
- Aperi – Limniati Cave: 1km (1hr) | Difficulty level: Moderate
- Aperi – Ahata beach: 6km (1hr) | Difficulty level: Moderate
- Saria isle: 7.4km (4-5hrs) | Difficulty level: Challenging
- Avlona – Ancient Vroukounta: 4km (4hrs) | Difficulty level: Moderate
Make sure you have all the right equipment before you set off:
Hiking is a magical way to enjoy the Greek countryside but make sure to be prepared and protect yourself, especially on very hot days.
- Stay hydrated: Always wear a hat and carry plenty of water with you
- Be weather-wise: Check the weather forecast before setting out. Avoid hiking during the midday heat and extremely hot periods. The best periods for hiking in Greece are during the spring and autumn months
- Plan your walk: Whenever possible, follow marked trails and plan your walk. Ideally, use a guide and never hike alone. Ask for directions if you’re unsure. This helps protect both you and the natural environment
- Stay connected: Have the phone numbers of your hotel and local authorities, such as the police, handy. And make sure your mobile phone is fully charged
