From Kos: Nisyros Island Volcano and Panagia Spiliani

Set out on a remarkable day trip from the island of Kos to the volcanic wonder of Nisyros. Explore the island’s dramatic landscape, featuring a massive caldera, bubbling mud pools, and steaming geysers. Discover the stunning Panagia Spiliani monastery, perched atop the volcanic crater. With a guided tour and ample time to experience the local charm of Mandraki, this excursion promises an unforgettable glimpse into Nisyros’ natural and cultural heritage. Uncover the secrets of this captivating Greek island and prepare to be amazed.

Key Points

• Take a 1-hour cruise from Kardamena port, Kos, to Nisyros island to explore the volcanic crater and the Panagia Spiliani monastery.
• Enjoy a guided tour of the volcanic crater, featuring bubbling mud pools and steam geysers, as part of the 7.5-8 hour excursion.
• Spend free time in the charming town of Mandraki for lunch and shopping, immersing in the island’s cultural heritage.
• The tour includes roundtrip transportation via ferry and to the volcano crater, as well as a bilingual tour guide.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as the tour may involve a moderately strenuous hike on uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The tour begins with a 1-hour cruise from Kardamena port, Kos, to the volcanic island of Nisyros.

A 1-hour cruise from Kardamena port, Kos, will transport you to the volcanic island of Nisyros to begin the tour.

Upon arrival, participants transfer to a bus for a short drive to the volcano.

Next, a guided tour explores the volcanic crater, showcasing bubbling mud pools and steam geysers.

Afterward, visitors enjoy free time in Mandraki town for lunch and shopping before returning to the port for the boat back to Kos, arriving around 4:00 PM.

The tour includes transportation, ferry ticket, and a bilingual guide, though food and drinks aren’t provided.

The entrance fee for the volcano is €5 per person.

Highlights of the Excursion

Visitors can walk inside the volcanic crater, marveling at the bubbling mud pools and steam geysers that dot the landscape.

The tour also explores the charming town of Mandraki, where travelers can enjoy a leisurely lunch or browse the local shops.

A highlight of the excursion is the visit to the beautiful Panagia Spiliani monastery, renowned for its striking architecture and stunning natural setting.

This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing guests to explore the volcanic wonders of Nisyros while also seeing the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Itinerary and Schedule

How does the day unfold on this excursion?

The journey begins with a 1-hour cruise from Kardamena port on Kos to Nisyros island. Upon arrival, visitors transfer to a bus for a short drive to the volcanic crater.

The excursion starts with a 1-hour cruise from Kardamena port on Kos to Nisyros island, followed by a short bus transfer to the volcanic crater.

A guided tour awaits, showcasing the bubbling mud pools and steam geysers within the crater. Afterward, guests enjoy free time in Mandraki town to have lunch and explore.

At 4:00 PM, the group returns to the port for the boat ride back to Kos, concluding the 7.5-8 hour excursion.

Inclusions and What’s Covered

This excursion includes roundtrip transportation from Kardamena port to Nisyros island via ferry. Plus, transportation to the volcano crater is provided. Visitors will also have the guidance of a bilingual (English and German) tour guide throughout the tour. However, food and drinks are not included, and there is a €5 per person entrance fee to the volcano that must be paid onsite.

| Included | Not Included |

| — | — |

| Ferry ticket | Food and drinks |

| Transportation to volcano | Entrance fee (€5 per person) |

| Bilingual guide | |

The tour provides the opportunity to explore the volcanic crater, walk through the town of Mandraki, and visit the Panagia Spiliani monastery, offering a comprehensive experience of Nisyros island’s highlights.

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Traveler Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this excursion, with an impressive overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 1,576 reviews.

The guide received a solid 4.2 rating, and transportation was rated 4.4. Reviewers highlighted the trip’s great value for money, with a 4.5 rating in this category.

A UK traveler named Chris called it a "great day trip for a great price" and highly recommended it.

Another UK traveler, Leigh, said "Everything about this trip was amazing."

A third UK traveler, Mark, described the experience as "Fantastic; beautiful island and great guides."

Important Information and Requirements

The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera to capture the stunning volcanic landscapes.

The meeting point is Kardamena Port, where you will board the boat named PRINCESS MARIA.

Key tips for a successful trip include:

• Wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain

• Bring sun protection to stay comfortable in the Mediterranean climate

• Ensure you have a camera to document the unique volcanic features

• Be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike within the crater

• Follow the guidance of the bilingual guide throughout the tour.

Booking and Cancellation Details

Although the tour is available for check-in times, visitors can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour pricing starts from $21.84 per person. Pickup from Kardamena port is optional, with the local supplier contacting guests for the exact pickup time.

The meeting point is at Kardamena Port, with the boat named PRINCESS MARIA.

Important information includes the tour not being suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera for the best experience.

Transportation and Meeting Point

Guests will depart from Kardamena port on the ferry PRINCESS MARIA for the 1-hour cruise to Nisyros Island.

Upon arrival, they’ll be transferred by bus to the volcano site.

The tour includes:

• Transportation to Kardamena port, if selected

• Ferry ticket to Nisyros Island

• Bus transportation to the volcanic crater

• A bilingual (English and German) guide

• Entrance fee for the volcano, paid on-site (€5 per person)

The meeting point is Kardamena Port.

Those who opted for the transportation package will be picked up and taken to the departure point.

The tour concludes with the return ferry to Kos at 4:00 PM.

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. It involves a moderate hike into a volcanic crater, which could be challenging for small kids. However, older children with good mobility may be able to participate with adult supervision.

Can I Purchase Food/Drinks During the Tour?

Travelers can purchase food and drinks during the free time in Mandraki town. However, the tour package doesn’t include meals, so any food or drinks consumed are at the traveler’s own expense.

What Should I Wear for the Volcanic Crater Hike?

For the volcanic crater hike, it’s best to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes that can handle uneven terrain. Lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses are also recommended to stay comfortable during the activity.

Can I Take a Dip in the Volcanic Pools?

No, visitors are not allowed to swim or bathe in the volcanic pools. The hot, bubbling mud and steam geysers pose a safety risk, so direct contact with the volcanic features is prohibited during the tour. Viewing the crater from a safe distance is the recommended experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes to Be Paid?

There is an entrance fee of €5 per person to access the volcanic crater, which is paid on-site. No other additional fees or taxes are mentioned in the tour details provided.

Sum Up

This unforgettable excursion from Kos to Nisyros Island offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s fascinating volcanic landscape. Visitors can marvel at the bubbling mud pools and steam geysers of the volcanic crater, then spend the afternoon in the charming town of Mandraki, seeing the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. With a scenic cruise and guided tour, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: