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Zagori Hiking Holiday in Greece: The Heart of Pindos Mountains

8 days | Moderate | 5.00
From $2,763 ()
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You ever step into a place and think, “How is this not more famous?” That’s Zagori in Greece. A secret garden of stone villages, hidden trails, and a gorge so deep it’s scientifically baffling. We’ll hike ancient paths, dip our feet in a mountain lake so high up it feels like an offering to the gods, and cross bridges built when knights were still a thing. The scenery? Ridiculous. The hiking? Rewarding. The guesthouses? Straight out of a folktale. And the food? Let’s just say Greek grandmothers would approve. So if you’re up for a trip where every step feels like flipping through the pages of a fantasy novel, this is it!

Adventure Highlights

  • Hiking at its finest: Trek ancient footpaths through rugged mountains, deep gorges, and high plateaus
  • The dragon’s lake: Hike to a mythical alpine lake perched at 2,050 m (6,725 ft)
  • Stone-built charm: Rest in traditional guesthouses where mountain views make every stay feel timeless
Duration
8 days
Season
May through October
Group size
Up to 12 people
Accommodation
Standard: Traditional 3-star guesthouses and a mountain refuge with bunk beds
Difficulty
Moderate: Good fitness level required, for experienced hikers, hiking up to 8 hours per day

The adventure, day by day

If hiking were a work of art, Zagori would be a masterpiece. This adventure takes us through Greece’s best-kept secret, a land where ancient paths wind through storybook villages, stone bridges stand the test of time, and Vikos Gorge carves its way through the mountains like a myth come to life. We’ll hike through dense forests, over rugged peaks, and past alpine lakes that shimmer like liquid sapphire. With every step, history, nature, and adventure collide. If you're craving an off-the-radar trek with world-class scenery and heart-stopping beauty, consider this your invitation.

Day 1: Arrival
Vitsa village

On the first day, we’ll meet the guides at Vitsa village. We’ll walk around and explore this charming village, and then we’ll stay in a traditional guesthouse for the night.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 2: Vitsa to Koukouli
Stone bridge in Greece

We’ll hike from Vitsa to Koukouli, Kipi, where we’ll tour around the old bridges that connected the villages years ago. The walk starts from Vitsa, down hilling the Vitsa Steps, in the heart of Vikos Gorge. We’ll cross one of the famous arched bridges and start walking uphill towards Koukouli, where the village square calls for a refreshment. The walk continues to Kipi, where we’ll rest and see more beautiful bridges. Through a dense forest, we’ll hike to Dilofo, a village protected as a monument of local architecture. We’ll rest at the square and walk back to Vitsa.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 3: Vikos gorge
Flowers near the river

Today, we’ll start by crossing Vikos Gorge, a very impressive canyon that’s also one of the deepest in the world. We will be transferred to Monodendri, and then we’ll hike downhill, where we meet the small river that flows through the gorge. We’ll continue next to the stream and walk right into the heart of the National Park. In the gorge, we’ll find a refuge and a lot of wild animals such as birds of prey, bears, and wild boars. Our walk will end at Vikos village after a slight ascent. We’ll rest at Vikos.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 4: Mikro Papingo
Natural pool in Greece

On Day 4, we’ll drive back to Vikos Village. Our walk will take us towards Mikro Papingo. We’ll start the hike by walking down to Voidomatis springs. After resting for a while, we’ll start to climb the northwest face of Vikos Gorge in the direction of Mikro Papingo. The views get more and more impressive as we hike up. The walk continues through the forest until we reach the village. The evening is free, and we can spend it by swimming in natural pools near the village.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 4 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 5: Mt. Timfi and Drakolimni lake
Drakolimni lake

The day starts by hiking from Papingo towards the high plateaus of Mt. Timfi, and reaching an alpine lake at 2,050 m (6,725 ft). The walk begins from Mikro Papingo, one of the most beautiful villages of Zagori, and continues towards Astraka mountain refuge. 

On the way up, we will pass by many water springs, so there is no need to carry a lot of water. After a small stop at the refuge, we’ll continue to the Drakolimni, an alpine lake. The scenery is magnificent because we’ll have great views over the Pindos mountain range. Later on, we’ll hike back to the refuge where we’ll spend the night.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6 hours
Accommodation: Astraka mountain refuge

Day 6: Mountain refuge to Tsepelovo
Greek mountains

A long day is ahead of us today as we have to cross the Timfi mountain range. We’ll start walking downhill from the refuge, reaching the big plains of the mountain. Under the impressive cliffs of Astraka, we’ll continue towards a small water reservoir called Loutsa Robozi—a place for the shepherds to water the animals in summer. The walk brings us to the beginning of Megas Lakos, an impressive canyon which ends at Vikos. As we cross a water spring, we’ll continue to Tsepelovo, our final destination.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 8 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 7: Vradeto to Kapesovo to Elati
Vradeto steps

Our last day will lead us across old roads through the plains of Vradeto, the highest village of Zagori. After a visit to Beloi, a view point into the gorge, we’ll walk towards Vradeto. After a stop in the village, we’ll hike down to the impressive Vradeto steps, a path which takes us down to Kapesovo. We’ll drive to Elati and spend the night there.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 7 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 8: Departure
Impressive mountain panorama

Today is the final day of this Zagori hiking holiday. We’ll say our goodbyes and depart back home from Elati, filled with experiences that we’ll cherish for a long time.

If hiking were a work of art, Zagori would be a masterpiece. This adventure takes us through Greece’s best-kept secret, a land where ancient paths wind through storybook villages, stone bridges stand the test of time, and Vikos Gorge carves its way through the mountains like a myth come to life. We’ll hike through dense forests, over rugged peaks, and past alpine lakes that shimmer like liquid sapphire. With every step, history, nature, and adventure collide. If you're craving an off-the-radar trek with world-class scenery and heart-stopping beauty, consider this your invitation.

Day 1: Arrival
Vitsa village

On the first day, we’ll meet the guides at Vitsa village. We’ll walk around and explore this charming village, and then we’ll stay in a traditional guesthouse for the night.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 2: Vitsa to Koukouli
Stone bridge in Greece

We’ll hike from Vitsa to Koukouli, Kipi, where we’ll tour around the old bridges that connected the villages years ago. The walk starts from Vitsa, down hilling the Vitsa Steps, in the heart of Vikos Gorge. We’ll cross one of the famous arched bridges and start walking uphill towards Koukouli, where the village square calls for a refreshment. The walk continues to Kipi, where we’ll rest and see more beautiful bridges. Through a dense forest, we’ll hike to Dilofo, a village protected as a monument of local architecture. We’ll rest at the square and walk back to Vitsa.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 3: Vikos gorge
Flowers near the river

Today, we’ll start by crossing Vikos Gorge, a very impressive canyon that’s also one of the deepest in the world. We will be transferred to Monodendri, and then we’ll hike downhill, where we meet the small river that flows through the gorge. We’ll continue next to the stream and walk right into the heart of the National Park. In the gorge, we’ll find a refuge and a lot of wild animals such as birds of prey, bears, and wild boars. Our walk will end at Vikos village after a slight ascent. We’ll rest at Vikos.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 4: Mikro Papingo
Natural pool in Greece

On Day 4, we’ll drive back to Vikos Village. Our walk will take us towards Mikro Papingo. We’ll start the hike by walking down to Voidomatis springs. After resting for a while, we’ll start to climb the northwest face of Vikos Gorge in the direction of Mikro Papingo. The views get more and more impressive as we hike up. The walk continues through the forest until we reach the village. The evening is free, and we can spend it by swimming in natural pools near the village.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 4 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 5: Mt. Timfi and Drakolimni lake
Drakolimni lake

The day starts by hiking from Papingo towards the high plateaus of Mt. Timfi, and reaching an alpine lake at 2,050 m (6,725 ft). The walk begins from Mikro Papingo, one of the most beautiful villages of Zagori, and continues towards Astraka mountain refuge. 

On the way up, we will pass by many water springs, so there is no need to carry a lot of water. After a small stop at the refuge, we’ll continue to the Drakolimni, an alpine lake. The scenery is magnificent because we’ll have great views over the Pindos mountain range. Later on, we’ll hike back to the refuge where we’ll spend the night.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6 hours
Accommodation: Astraka mountain refuge

Day 6: Mountain refuge to Tsepelovo
Greek mountains

A long day is ahead of us today as we have to cross the Timfi mountain range. We’ll start walking downhill from the refuge, reaching the big plains of the mountain. Under the impressive cliffs of Astraka, we’ll continue towards a small water reservoir called Loutsa Robozi—a place for the shepherds to water the animals in summer. The walk brings us to the beginning of Megas Lakos, an impressive canyon which ends at Vikos. As we cross a water spring, we’ll continue to Tsepelovo, our final destination.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 8 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 7: Vradeto to Kapesovo to Elati
Vradeto steps

Our last day will lead us across old roads through the plains of Vradeto, the highest village of Zagori. After a visit to Beloi, a view point into the gorge, we’ll walk towards Vradeto. After a stop in the village, we’ll hike down to the impressive Vradeto steps, a path which takes us down to Kapesovo. We’ll drive to Elati and spend the night there.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 7 hours
Accommodation: Traditional 3-star guesthouse

Day 8: Departure
Impressive mountain panorama

Today is the final day of this Zagori hiking holiday. We’ll say our goodbyes and depart back home from Elati, filled with experiences that we’ll cherish for a long time.

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Makis Logiotatidis
5.00
Makis Logiotatidis
Makis Logiotatidis is a certified mountain leader, ski patroller, and ski instructor with many years of experience in the mountains. Makis often went hiking and skiing as a child, to Mt. Olympus and Mt. Vermio, close to his hometown of Thessaloniki. Growing up, Makis discovered that living in nature and walking the mountains made him much happier, so he soon left the crowded city for a freer lifestyle. He worked in many parts of Greece as a guide and a ski instructor, before moving to Austria for three years, during which he gained certification in both these fields. In 2004 he decided to move to the Pindos mountains.
Mountain Goat
5.00
Mountain Goat
Mountain Goat was born from a deep passion for mountain sports and a lifelong connection to Greece’s untamed landscapes. With years of exploration and firsthand knowledge, the Mountain Goat’s team shares the hidden beauty of the country’s lesser-known mountains through carefully crafted outdoor adventures. Dedicated to preserving the wild, authentic spirit of these regions, Mountain Goat offers travelers a chance to experience Greece beyond the tourist trails.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)
D
Dan Jackson

Had a fantastic walk through the mountains of Zagori and learnt a lot of history. Makis was a fantastic tour guide. He adjusted everything for the pace of our tribe that included my 7 year old daughter and her 65 year old Yaya. We would definitely use them again for future hikes.

r
ram tsiddon

We just made the Pindos Horseshoe trek with the professional arrangement and guidance of Makis and his team. Perfect travel agency for trekkers.

D
Don Corson

We were very impressed with the organization of the hikes and the arrangements for our food and lodging. It’s beautiful hiking country and our hosts were very welcoming. Makis did a great job.

5.00(3 reviews)
D
Dan Jackson

Had a fantastic walk through the mountains of Zagori and learnt a lot of history. Makis was a fantastic tour guide. He adjusted everything for the pace of our tribe that included my 7 year old daughter and her 65 year old Yaya. We would definitely use them again for future hikes.

r
ram tsiddon

We just made the Pindos Horseshoe trek with the professional arrangement and guidance of Makis and his team. Perfect travel agency for trekkers.

D
Don Corson

We were very impressed with the organization of the hikes and the arrangements for our food and lodging. It’s beautiful hiking country and our hosts were very welcoming. Makis did a great job.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced, local, English-speaking hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 8-day Zagori hiking holiday
      • Accommodation: 6 nights in traditional 3-star guesthouses and 1 night in a mountain refuge with bunk beds
      • Meals: 6 packed lunches and 7 dinners
      • Luggage transfers and local transfers (when needed)
      • VAT and taxes

    Not included:

      • Flights 
      • Airport transfers
      • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
      • Drinks
      • Insurance — available to add at checkout
      • Guide gratuities — optional
  • This Zagori hiking holiday is rated moderate, which means that good fitness levels are required to participate. This tour is designed for experienced hikers with good physical and mental condition. Expect hiking up to 8 hours per day, and 90 km (56 mi) in total covered distance during the trip.

    For more hiking adventures in Greece, click here!

  • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • Backpack large enough for everything you might need throughout the day (35-40L)
      • Waterproof jacket
      • Fleece jacket
      • Hiking boots
      • Hiking poles
      • Light gloves
      • Cap
      • Sunglasses
      • Sun protection
      • Comfortable detachable trousers
      • Socks
      • First aid kit
      • Headlamp
      • Liner (for the refuge)
      • Towel (for the refuge)
      • Water bottles
      • Pocket knife
      • Buff
      • Repair kit for clothes
      • Quick-dry t-shirts

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

    Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • It takes a minimum of 6 people for this Zagori hiking holiday to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.

    A Zagori hiking holiday can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors older than 15 may be permitted to join the Zagori hiking holiday on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • The starting point of your Zagori hiking holiday is Vitsa village. To get there, most people fly into Ioannina Νational Airport (IOA), but it has limited international flights. The closest major international airport is Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG), about 260 km (160 miles) away. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Vitsa village.

    Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at a predetermined time. The guide will provide more information before the adventure begins.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits

    Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

    Basic

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Flexible

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Super Flexible

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
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