Guided Hiking Tour To The Dragon Lake Of Mountain Tymfi

Explore the natural wonders of the Tymfi mountain range in Epirus, Greece on a guided hiking tour to the breathtaking Dragon Lake. Led by an experienced local guide, this 8-hour adventure promises an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes, culminating at the enchanting lake. From scenic van transfers to moderate treks, the tour offers an opportunity to take in the region’s captivating beauty and discover its hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an outdoor enthusiast, this guided excursion provides an authentic experience that just might leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

This guided hiking tour offers an 8-hour excursion to the scenic Dragon Lake in the Epirus region of Greece, with a cost of $146.77 per person.
The tour includes transportation, a certified guide, bottled water, and snacks, but is not suitable for certain groups due to the moderate fitness level required.
Participants can expect a 1-hour van transfer, a 2-hour trek to the Astraka Mountain Refuge, a 30-minute hike to the Dragon Lake, and additional activities like visiting Papingo Rock Pools.
Pickup and drop-off is provided from Mavili Square or Ioannina Airport, ensuring a seamless transportation experience for participants.
The tour highlights include exploring the Astraka Shelter, Dragon Lake, natural rock pools, Voidomatis River, and capturing stunning landscapes of cliffs and wildlife.

Tour Overview

This guided hiking tour takes visitors to the stunning Dragon Lake in the Epirus region of Greece, within the Mountain Tymfi area. The tour lasts 8 hours and costs from $146.77 per person.

Booking is flexible – you can reserve now and pay later, and get a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from either Mavili Square or Ioannina Airport, private transportation, a certified guide, bottled water, snacks, and optional hiking equipment.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, those with mobility issues or heart problems, or individuals over 220 lbs. Proper hiking attire and sturdy footwear are essential.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a 1-hour van transfer from the pickup locations to the village of Papingo.

Hikers then trek for 2 hours to reach the Astraka Mountain Refuge. From there, it’s a 30-minute hike up to the stunning Dragon Lake. The return hike back to the Astraka Refuge takes around 1 hour.

The itinerary also includes:

A 1.5-hour hike back to Papingo.
A 30-minute visit to the Papingo Rock Pools.
A 30-minute break at the Voidomatis River.
Drop-off at the King Pyrros Ioannina National Airport or Mavili Square.

The tour offers a well-rounded hiking experience, allowing participants to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour starts with pickups at Mavili Square and King Pyrros Ioannina National Airport, providing convenient access for participants.

From these locations, the group will be transported by van for an hour to reach the starting point in Papingo.

After completing the hike and exploring the sights, the tour will end with drop-offs at the same pickup points – King Pyrros Ioannina National Airport and Mavili Square.

This ensures a seamless transportation experience for hikers, allowing them to focus on the stunning natural landscapes and activities without worrying about logistics.

The well-organized pickup and drop-off system contributes to the overall ease and enjoyment of the guided hiking adventure.

Hiking Highlights

Hikers can explore the awe-inspiring Astraka Shelter and serene Dragon Lake, seeing the region’s natural wonders. The hiking tour offers several highlights:

Experience the natural rock pools and traditional villages for a glimpse into local culture.
Observe the Voidomatis River and spot wildlife, including the captivating Alpine Tritons.
Witness the scenic views of towering cliffs and wild goats roaming the landscape.
Capture stunning photographic and video memories to cherish long after the adventure.

The guided hiking tour to Dragon Lake promises an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Mountain Tymfi, Epirus.

Inclusions and Amenities

This guided hiking tour includes all state taxes and VAT, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and a certified guide. Participants also receive bottled water and snacks, along with the option to use walking or hiking sticks. The tour provides photographic and video material to capture memorable moments from the adventure.

However, the tour doesn’t include meals or drinks.

It’s also important to note that this excursion isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, or recent surgeries, or those over 220 lbs (100 kg).

Hikers should come prepared with the right gear, including comfortable outdoor clothing, hiking shoes, and a daypack.

Suitability and Restrictions

Certain individuals won’t be able to join this guided hiking tour to Dragon Lake due to specific restrictions. The tour isn’t suitable for:

Children under 12 years old
Pregnant women
Those with mobility impairments, heart problems, or recent surgeries
Individuals over 220 lbs (100 kg)

This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

The terrain can be challenging, and the hike requires a moderate level of fitness. Prospective hikers should come prepared with the proper attire and equipment, as outlined in the important information section.

The tour operator takes precautions to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for those who are able to join.

Packing Recommendations

To ensure a comfortable and prepared hike, you will want to bring a hat, change of clothes, camera, hiking shoes, jacket, comfortable outdoor clothing, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, a daypack, and quick-dry clothing.

The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so layering is key. A warm jacket and extra clothing will come in handy.

Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are a must to navigate the rocky terrain. A daypack will allow you to carry essential items like snacks, water, and any personal items.

Quick-drying fabrics will help you stay dry and comfortable throughout the hike.

With the right gear, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the stunning scenery of Dragon Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Meals and Drinks

Meals and drinks aren’t included in the tour price, so you will need to bring their own sustenance for the day. This allows for flexibility and personal preference.

Some tips for packing food and beverages:

Pack a hearty lunch, snacks, and plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Consider bringing electrolyte-rich drinks to replenish lost salts and minerals.
Avoid heavy or messy foods that could be difficult to consume on the trail.
Pack food in a way that’s easy to access and consume while hiking.

Proper nutrition and hydration will help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience on the Dragon Lake hiking tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will There Be Opportunities to Take Photos During the Hike?

Yes, there will be plenty of opportunities to take photos during the hike. The tour includes photographic and video material, allowing participants to capture scenic views, wildlife, and natural landmarks encountered along the way.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment or Will It Be Provided?

You can bring your own hiking equipment, but optional walking or hiking sticks will be provided. The tour includes all necessary gear, with the flexibility to use your own equipment if preferred.

Is the Hike Suitable for Beginners With Little Hiking Experience?

The hike may not be suitable for complete beginners as it involves 3.5 hours of hiking up and down steep terrain. Some prior hiking experience is recommended to safely complete this challenging trail. The tour is best suited for moderately experienced hikers.

Can I Request a Customized Itinerary or Make Special Requests?

Yes, customers can request customized itineraries or make special requests. The tour operator is generally open to accommodating reasonable requests, within the limits of the tour’s capabilities and safety requirements. It’s best to discuss any specific needs or preferences with the operator.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Covered in the Tour Price?

The tour price covers all essential costs, including transportation, guide, and snacks. However, meals and drinks are not included, so hikers should budget for these additional expenses. Any optional purchases like walking sticks would also incur extra charges.