Karpathos Island Hiking Tour
Overview
Karpathos Island is a timeless place with a few pristine villages dotting its land. On this 8-day tour, you’ll visit four villages and walk incredible paths only accessible by foot. Climb rocky trails and descend to stunning quays of crystal-clear water (and take a dip if you like!). The locals on this island will welcome you with smiles and waves, invite you into their taverns, and leave you with so many memories.
This tour’s self-guided model means you’ll have a detailed itinerary with route options for each day, but you are free to choose your schedule. You’ll have charming accommodation each night in traditional hotels and B&Bs, all of which provide superb service. Spend your days getting exercise, seeing tremendous views, feasting on local fare, then retreat to your cozy bed each night. This off-the-beaten-path locale is sure to stay in your mind for life after the Karpathos Island Hiking Tour!
Karpathos Island Hiking Tour Overview
Karpathos Island is a timeless place with a few pristine villages dotting its land. On this 8-day tour, you’ll visit four villages and walk incredible paths only accessible by foot. Climb rocky trails and descend to stunning quays of crystal-clear water (and take a dip if you like!). The locals on this island will welcome you with smiles and waves, invite you into their taverns, and leave you with so many memories.
This tour’s self-guided model means you’ll have a detailed itinerary with route options for each day, but you are free to choose your schedule. You’ll have charming accommodation each night in traditional hotels and B&Bs, all of which provide superb service. Spend your days getting exercise, seeing tremendous views, feasting on local fare, then retreat to your cozy bed each night. This off-the-beaten-path locale is sure to stay in your mind for life after the Karpathos Island Hiking Tour!
Stop in local taverns to meet the villagers and fuel your journey with Greek fare.
Wake up to magnificent views of the cliffside pouring into the sea from your B&B in Olympos.
Visit a private beach only accessible by kaiki (boat), Jeep, or foot.
Wander the narrow lanes comprising each time-stopped village.
Trip map for Karpathos Island Hiking Tour
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Itinerary for Karpathos Island Hiking Tour
Arrive on Karpathos
You’ve landed on this super remote island in the Aegean Sea with a weeks’ worth of adventure ahead. A driver will meet you at the airport and bring you to your accommodation. Depending on when you arrive, spend the rest of the day exploring around Pigadia, your home for the night.
Head to Diafani
After breakfast, you’ll be whisked away to the northern village of Diafani. Soak in the lush, unexpectedly mountainous scenery as you drive north. You can choose to walk the last 5km to the village along a riverbed or drive the whole way.
When you arrive, take a stroll to the beach via one of two path options. Settle into your hotel and find an excellent viewpoint to witness a magical sunset.
Diafani Circuit and Boat Ride to Private Beach
Rise and shine in this island paradise. After breakfast, you’ll board a kaiki (small boat) for a 30-minute ride to Forokli, a secluded beach visited by few as it’s only accessible by boat, Jeep, or on foot. Walk along this area alongside a riverbed, with running water even in the hottest months. See an old chapel on your return to Diafani.
Hike to Olympos Village
Fuel up for a big day ahead. Departing from your hotel, you’ll walk inland on old mule paths and head into the countryside. Feel free to stop at the quaint taverns along the way, waving to locals and supporting their businesses.
Visit Vroukounda, an ancient settlement that pirates once attacked. Then continue to Olympos, a village established by the inhabitants who fled the pirate attack. Settle into the timeless Olympos, with its colourfully-painted houses built upon the mountain.
Olympos Village Circuit
Today, you’ll explore the surrounding area of Olympos on a short but efficient walk. Meander through impressive flora, getting views of the gorgeous Aegean Sea, and finding many hidden treasures to admire, like old churches and gardens.
You’ll get to observe daily life in Olympos, then when you return to the village proper, browse the artisan shops in the cobblestone alleyways.
Hike to Spoa
Today’s another big hiking day, so make sure to eat a hearty breakfast. Depart from Olympos and head down the central part of the island, which is so narrow you may be able to see the Aegean on both sides of you! You’ll walk along a well-maintained mule path through pastoral scenery of farmhouses, terraces, and fields.
Continue to Spoa, passing by its old church. From this village, you’ll be transferred to Lefkos, a picturesque fishing village, to spend the last two nights.
Hike to Meshori
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and set out for your final hike on Karpathos. Leaving Lefkos, you’ll head out for some sightseeing with a bit of physical challenge. First, stop at a basilica with gorgeous mosaics, then continue on the mountainous terrain to the village of Mesohori. Stop for lunch at a local tavern and walk (or stumble) home to Lefkos.
Departure
It’s time to say goodbye to lovely Karpathos Island. You’ll get a transfer to the airport for your departure. Or, extend your stay if you don’t think you’ll be quite finished with this enchanting island!
Reviews
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Dates and prices for Karpathos Island Hiking Tour
Solo Traveller
Single Room (2+)
Double/Twin Room
Triple Room
| Solo Traveller | Single Room (2+) | Double/Twin Room | Triple Room | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 1, 2025 to May 31, 2025 | $1,575USD | $1,125USD | $875USD | $725USD |
| Jun 1, 2025 to Jun 30, 2025 | $1,625USD | $1,175USD | $895USD | $775USD |
| Jul 1, 2025 to Jul 29, 2025 | $1,650USD | $1,225USD | $950USD | $795USD |
| Jul 30, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025 | $1,725USD | $1,275USD | $975USD | $825USD |
| Sep 1, 2025 to Sep 30, 2025 | $1,625USD | $1,175USD | $895USD | $775USD |
| Oct 1, 2025 to Oct 17, 2025 | $1,575USD | $1,125USD | $875USD | $725USD |
| Optional transfer from Lefkos to Airport (1-4 travellers):$50USD | ||||
What’s included for Karpathos Island Hiking Tour
Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodation for 7 nights is included. You can book ahead to extend your stay in any of the overnight locations along the route.
Transportation during the Tour
Some transportation is included during the tour, including airport transfers at the beginning and end, transfer between Pigadia and Diafani, a boat ride to Forokli, and the ride from Spoa to Lefkos. Transportation for your luggage is included between Diafani and Olympos, and Olympos and Lefkos.
Also Included
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- 24-hour telephone assistance
Not Included
- Flights
- Visas if required
- Guide services
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Personal expenses or gratuities
- Travel insurance or tourism tax
- Public transportation, ferry tickets
- Anything not mentioned as included
- Entrance fees for sites
Optional Extras
- Extra nights in any accommodation
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
Accommodation for Karpathos Island Hiking Tour
This tour is based in hotels and family-run guesthouses. Enjoy authentic Greek décor and lovely hospitality all over Karpathos.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
Frequently asked questions for Karpathos Island Hiking Tour
How hard is the Karpathos Island Hiking Tour?
We rate this tour as a 3/5. You should be comfortable walking 2–7 hours daily. You will have lots of downtime to recuperate. The elevation gain is moderate, and the paths are mostly dirt, cobblestone, and footpaths.
Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Are meals included on the Karpathos Island Hiking Tour?
7 breakfasts are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Karpathos Island to start this tour?
You can reach the Karpathos Airport (AOK) by plane from many major European airports, including a domestic flight from Athens.
Is the Karpathos Island Hiking Tour guided?
No. You will be provided with all necessary information to complete your self-guided tour.
Where does the Karpathos Island Hiking Tour end?
The tour ends at the Karpathos Airport after you’ve been dropped off.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Greece?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Greece?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Greece for this tour?
The best time to travel to Greece for hiking is during the warmest months of the year (May-September) but know that it can get very hot mid-summer (July and August).
Why book with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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