Visit the Santorini Volcano: A Breathtaking Trip to Nea Kameni
One of the top things to do in Santorini is take a boat tour to Nea Kameni, the active volcanic island at the center of the Santorini Caldera. This unique experience combines adventure, natural beauty, and the raw power of volcanic activity — making it one of the most unforgettable attractions in Santorini.
Start Your Journey with a Santorini Volcano Boat Tour
Departing from the old port of Fira or other points along the caldera, boat tours to Nea Kameni offer stunning views of the whitewashed villages clinging to the cliffs above. As you approach the volcano, you might witness warm waters bubbling from underwater hot springs — evidence of the island’s still-active geothermal nature.
Hike the Nea Kameni Volcano
Once you arrive at Nea Kameni, get ready for a scenic hike across a dramatic volcanic landscape. The walk to the crater takes about 30 minutes, winding through black lava rocks and sun-scorched terrain. Along the path, you’ll encounter patches of steam venting from the earth and views that stretch across the entire Santorini archipelago.
This is more than just a hike — it’s a rare opportunity to walk across an active volcano and witness the geological forces that shaped one of Greece’s most iconic islands.
Why the Volcano Matters: The Origin of Santorini
The Santorini volcano is the reason the island looks the way it does today. Thousands of years ago, a massive volcanic eruption caused the center of the island to collapse, creating the caldera and separating the land into five islands:
Santorini (Thera)
Therasia
Aspronisi (uninhabited)
Palaia Kameni
Nea Kameni
Today, these islands are all close to each other and easily accessible, making island-hopping and volcano tours in Santorini a popular activity for visitors.
Don’t Miss Santorini’s Volcanic Beaches
After your volcano hike, explore Santorini’s famous beaches, many of which are covered in black volcanic sand and pebbles. These beaches — such as Perissa, Kamari, and Red Beach — offer a striking contrast to the typical white-sand beaches found elsewhere in Greece and are a testament to the island’s explosive past.
Tips for Visiting Nea Kameni Volcano
Wear sturdy shoes: The rocky terrain can be uneven and hot underfoot.
Bring water and sunscreen: There’s little to no shade on the volcano trail.
Book a guided tour: Many boat trips include a guide who can explain the history and geology of the area.
Combine it with a hot spring swim: Some tours also stop at Palaia Kameni, where you can swim in naturally heated waters.
Experience the Santorini Volcano – A Must-Do Adventure
Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or a curious traveler, visiting Nea Kameni volcano is one of the best things to do in Santorini. It offers breathtaking views, fascinating geology, and a deeper understanding of the island’s history.
Make sure to add this volcano hike in Santorini to your travel itinerary — it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.