Climbing Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the Greek gods, isn’t your average day hike. Instead of a casual stroll, this guided tour promises a full-day challenge, with the reward of reaching Mytikas, the highest peak at 2918 meters. While it’s not a trip for the faint of heart, those with a decent fitness level and a sense of adventure will find this experience both exhilarating and deeply memorable.
What drew us in? First, the opportunity to walk a route filled with mythic significance. Second, the inclusion of expert guidance, safety gear, and logistics taken care of, making this a hassle-free adventure. And third, the chance to sign the mountaineer’s book at nearly 10,000 feet—an authentic badge of achievement.
A potential consideration? The route is demanding and includes sections that require climbing, which might be daunting for some. If you’re not comfortable with high-altitude hiking, it’s worth assessing your fitness and experience beforehand.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a physically rewarding day, enjoy scenic mountain landscapes, and are eager to tick Mount Olympus off their bucket list.
Key Points
- Challenging but Rewarding: The route reaches nearly 3,000 meters, with technical sections that need climbing skills.
- All-inclusive Logistics: Private transfer, guide, safety gear, and photos are included, simplifying the experience.
- Authentic Mountaineering Experience: Sign the mountaineer’s book and enjoy panoramic views, making it a true achievement.
- Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now with pay later and cancel up to 24 hours ahead for full refund.
- Comfortable Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off in several nearby towns and meeting points.
- Suitable for Active Travelers: Not recommended for pregnant women, those with health issues, or wheelchair users.
A Closer Look at the Experience
The journey begins early in the morning, with a private transfer from your hotel or designated meeting point in Neoi Poroi, Platamonas, Leptokarya, or Litochoro. The off-road 8-seater minivan whisks you up toward Mount Olympus, setting the stage for the day ahead. The ride offers scenic views of the surrounding landscapes, adding to the anticipation.
Once you arrive at the mountain, your guide—likely a knowledgeable local or experienced mountaineer—gets you geared up with safety equipment like helmets and harnesses. The group size is private, which means a more personalized experience and closer interaction with your guide, who is fluent in English.
The hike officially kicks off with a steady ascent to around 2,400 meters, where you’ll take a well-deserved break at Christakis. This spot is often praised for its stunning scenery and serves as a perfect rest point to soak in the views and prepare for the final push.
From Christakis, the trail becomes more demanding. You’ll follow a well-marked but technically challenging route to Skala—a point that takes about an hour—and from there, the final ascent to Mytikas begins. Expect sections that require climbing, where your guide’s assistance and safety gear are critical. The route’s difficulty is noted to have a high degree of challenge, so a good level of fitness and comfort with heights are recommended.
Reaching the summit at 9,600 feet (2918 m) is a moment of triumph. You can sign the mountaineer’s book—an quaint tradition that marks your achievement—and take in the breathtaking, 360-degree views over Greece’s rugged landscape. Many reviews mention how the sense of standing on top of Greece, with the mythic mountain stretching beneath, makes every difficult step worth it.
After a good rest and photo session, the descent begins, which is equally scenic but less technically demanding. The return transfer allows you to reflect on your accomplishment while enjoying the comfort of the vehicle back to your hotel.
Looking for more options in Litochoro? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Expert Guidance & Safety: The guiding team from Xtremeway Outdoors prioritizes safety, providing helmets and harnesses, which they’ve received positive remarks about. Their careful planning and local knowledge help you avoid common pitfalls and navigate the more technical parts confidently.
Inclusive Pricing & Logistics: At $1,563 per group (up to two people), you’re paying for a well-organized experience—transport, park fees, gear, and photos—without the hassle of managing details yourself. For serious hikers, it offers competitive value considering the effort and logistics involved.
Authentic Mountaineering Feat: The opportunity to sign the mountaineer’s book is a genuine highlight. Many reviewers have praised the feeling of achievement, comparing it to a “once-in-a-lifetime high-altitude adventure.”
Flexible Booking & Cancellation: The “reserve now, pay later” policy offers peace of mind, especially if your plans are still tentative. Cancelation up to 24 hours in advance is straightforward, making it easier to adapt if needed.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Morning Pickup: Your adventure kicks off with hotel pickup or a meeting point, typically in the morning, depending on availability. The off-road minivan journey from the base areas offers a scenic prelude and a chance to meet your fellow climbers (or enjoy the solitude if you prefer a private tour).
Approach & Rest at Christakis: After a couple of hours of hiking, you arrive at Christakis, a well-loved rest stop. Here, the views are stunning, and you’ll have time to hydrate and prepare for the more technical sections ahead.
Final Ascent to Mytikas: The last leg involves a mix of well-marked trail and sections that require climbing, possibly using your hands. This part is where the guide’s experience and encouragement become invaluable. Reviewers describe it as demanding but doable with proper preparation and guidance.
Summit & Sign: Reaching Mytikas feels like conquering a mythic mountain—literally and figuratively. The views from Greece’s highest point are often described as breathtaking, with many noting that the feeling of standing on the “house of the 12 Gods” is unforgettable.
Return & Relaxation: The descent is smooth and scenic, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection. The transfer back to your accommodation wraps up a physically fulfilling day.
Practical Tips for the Trip
- Bring proper hiking gear: Sturdy hiking shoes are essential. Waterproof jackets, long pants, and layered clothing are advised due to changing mountain weather.
- Pack water and snacks: Hydration is key, especially given the physical effort involved.
- Start early: The tour’s starting times vary, so check availability to plan accordingly.
- Be prepared for climbing: Sections require climbing, so confidence with heights and experience with climbing gear will enhance your experience.
- Limitations: The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or anyone with mobility issues.
Final Thoughts
Climbing Mount Olympus with Olympus Mountain Guiding offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, challenge, and mythic significance. The comprehensive logistics, expert guidance, and authentic sense of achievement make it a worthwhile option for those seeking a meaningful mountain adventure in Greece.
While the route is demanding, the support provided along the way makes it accessible for active travelers ready to push their limits. The views and the feeling of standing atop Greece’s highest point are likely to stay with you long after the day ends.
Ultimately, this tour is ideal for fit, adventurous travelers who want more than just a walk in the mountains—it’s perfect for those craving a true mountaineering experience with a dash of Greek legend.
- Explore Mount Olympus & Dion: History & Nature Day Trip
- Pieria: the Olympus Sunset Tour With Platamon Castle Visit
- Athens to Mount Olympus: 2 days private tour
- Litochoro: 2-Day Guided Hiking Trip To Olympus Summit
- Olympus Mountain Guiding – Mytikas 2918m in a day
- Thessaloniki: Mount Olympus and Dion Day Trip by Train
FAQ
How long is the hike to the summit?
The hike from the starting point to the summit involves reaching around 2,400 meters first, then a final, more technical ascent to Mytikas, which takes approximately an hour from Skala.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers round-trip private transfer, guide, safety gear (helmet and harness), park fees, and photos/video of your hike.
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
No, the route is demanding with sections that require climbing and a high level of fitness. It’s better suited for active travelers with some experience in mountain hiking or climbing.
What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, water, a jacket, long-sleeved shirt, waterproof clothing, long pants, socks, and trekking gear. Food and drinks are not included.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, a private transfer is included, and pickups are available from selected hotels and meeting points.
Are there any age or health restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
What is the group size?
You can choose between a private tour, which offers a more personalized experience.
To sum it up, this guided ascent of Mount Olympus offers a challenging yet profoundly rewarding day for adventure lovers. From the scenic drive to the mythic summit, every step is packed with significance and stunning views—an experience that’s hard to match elsewhere.
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