Visit the Volcano and Hot Springs.
Take a boat tour to the active volcano on Nea Kameni, just off the island. You can hike to the crater and enjoy the unique landscape. Most tours also stop at the nearby hot springs for a warm, therapeutic swim.
Visiting the volcano and hot springs of Santorini offers a unique opportunity to explore the geological forces that shaped this stunning island. This adventure typically involves a boat tour that takes you to Nea Kameni, the small island in the center of Santorini’s caldera which hosts the active volcano, and then to the nearby hot springs. Here’s what you can expect and some tips for making the most of your visit:
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Visiting the Volcano
Nea Kameni is a protected scientific site and the area most representative of the volcano’s activity. The landscape here is stark and rugged, dominated by dark volcanic rocks and little vegetation.
Key Experiences:
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Guided Hikes to the Crater: Most tours offer a guided hike to the active crater of the volcano. It’s a relatively easy walk, but the ground can be uneven and hot due to geothermal activity, so good walking shoes are a must.
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Sulfur Vents: You’ll see and smell the sulfur vents, which are areas where steam and gases escape from the earth. It’s a tangible reminder that the volcano is still active!
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Panoramic Views: From the highest points on Nea Kameni, you’ll have spectacular views of the surrounding islands and the rest of Santorini rising dramatically from the Aegean Sea.
Visiting the Hot Springs
After the volcano, the tour typically continues to Palea Kameni, where you can swim in the hot springs. These springs are heated by the volcanic activity beneath and are known for their therapeutic benefits.
Key Experiences:
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Thermal Waters: The water near the hot springs is warmer than the open sea and contains sulfur, which is said to have healing properties for the skin and joints. Note that the water is not very hot, but comfortably warm.
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Mud Baths: In some areas, you can find soft mud which you can rub on your skin as a natural spa treatment.
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Swimming: Access to the hot springs is usually by swimming from the boat to the coast. It’s a short swim, but it can be a bit challenging for those who aren’t confident swimmers.
Practical Tips
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Wear Suitable Clothing: Bring a swimsuit and a change of clothes. Also, the mineral-rich waters of the hot springs can stain light-colored swimsuits, so consider wearing something dark.
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Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the volcanic terrain and water shoes for swimming in the hot springs, as the seabed can be rocky.
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Sun Protection: The sun can be intense, especially on the open sea and the barren island of Nea Kameni. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
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Choose the Right Tour: There are many options for tours, ranging from a few hours to a full day. Some include meals and extended visits to other parts of the caldera. Check reviews and choose a tour that fits your interests and schedule.
Environmental Considerations
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Preservation: As a protected area, visitors are expected to follow guidelines to ensure the preservation of this unique natural environment. This includes not removing rocks or other natural materials.
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Respect for Nature: The volcanic islands are home to fragile ecosystems. Stick to marked paths and follow the guide’s instructions.
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Visiting the volcano and hot springs is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an immersive experience into the natural forces that continue to shape Santorini. It’s a reminder of the island's dynamic history and a chance to witness Earth’s raw power up close.