1 Day summit Olympus

Discover the Unique Charm of the 1 Day Summit Olympus Tour

The 1 Day Summit Olympus tour offers an exciting opportunity to climb Greece’s iconic Mount Olympus in just one day. Priced at $215 per person, this adventure lasts approximately 9 hours and takes you through lesser-known, yet breathtaking routes leading to Mytikas, the mountain’s highest point at 2,918 meters.

This tour is perfect for those who want a challenging yet manageable ascent, with the chance to enjoy spectacular views and the thrill of reaching one of Greece’s most famous summits. The journey follows the E4 European Trail, providing hikers with a taste of rugged wilderness, dense forests, and impressive mountain landscapes.

While the tour offers excellent value, it’s essential to prepare for a physically demanding experience. Suitable for ages 13 to 70, participants should be in good physical and mental condition, with no acrophobia or mobility issues. This tour is ideal for active travelers eager to combine adventure with stunning natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Climb Mount Olympus’s highest peak, Mytikas, in just one day
• Price of $215 includes guiding, equipment, local transfers, and a snack
• Duration of 9 hours with flexible start times
• Small group size, limited to 8 participants, for personalized attention
• Suitable for ages 13-70 with good fitness; not for children under 13 or those with health concerns
• Follow the scenic E4 European Trail, passing Skolio and Skala peaks

Mount Olympus: Greece’s Tallest Mountain and Mythical Home of the Gods

Mount Olympus rises sharply from the Aegean Sea, reaching 2,917 meters at its highest point, Mytikas. It is Greece’s tallest mountain and the second tallest in the Balkans. Its slopes feature steep, forested gorges, waterfalls, and caves, making it a captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The mountain’s peaks are snow-capped for much of the year—about 8 months—and often appear behind clouds, adding to its majestic aura. According to mythology, Olympus was home to the gods and spirits, making the scenery even more special for visitors. The 52 peaks of Olympus, with their rugged terrain and scenic vistas, promise an adventure filled with natural beauty.

Starting Point and Transport: From Kalivia to the Mountain Huts

This tour departs from Kalivia, where a local transfer by 4×4 vehicle takes participants to the Christakis mountain hut. The journey to the hut is part of the adventure, offering a chance to enjoy off-road travel through Greece’s scenic landscape.

The transfers are included in the cost, removing logistical concerns. After reaching the hut, the guide leads the group through the starting point of the actual climb, setting the stage for an exciting day ahead. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, with ample opportunity for questions and support throughout.

The Route to the Summit: Traversing Skolio and Skala Peaks

The climb involves crossing the Skolio peak, situated at 2,912 meters, before heading toward Skala. This part of the route offers hikers stunning panoramic views and a chance to experience Olympus’s rugged terrain up close.

Reaching Mytikas involves a grade 3 scramble, which is made safer by the use of ropes, harnesses, and helmets provided during the tour. This section demands good physical fitness and some previous rock climbing experience, as indicated by previous participants’ reviews.

The route’s highlights include traversing steep sections and enjoying the impressive scenery of Olympus’s peaks and gorges. The guide ensures safety and encourages participants to enjoy the ascent at a steady pace.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included in the Price: Comfort, Safety, and Local Perks

The $215 fee covers a variety of essentials:

• An English-speaking Trekking Hellas Guide with expert knowledge of Olympus
• All necessary climbing equipment, including a helmet and harness
• Local transfer in a 4×4 vehicle from Kalivia to the mountain huts
• A light snack to keep energy levels high
• A special “passport – info guide” for Litochoro village, with discounts at select shops
• All taxes and liability insurance for peace of mind

This comprehensive package means participants can focus fully on the climb without worrying about logistics or gear.

The Physical and Technical Demands of the Ascent

Participants should be prepared for a physically challenging day, requiring good fitness and mental resilience. The route involves steep sections and a grade 3 scramble to reach the summit, with safety gear in place but an expectation of active participation.

Participants should be free of acrophobia and mobility issues and between 13 and 70 years old. The tour explicitly excludes those with certain health conditions, pregnant women, and individuals over 287 pounds (130 kg), among others. Proper clothing, including hiking shoes, breathable clothes, and outdoor gear, is essential for comfort and safety.

What to Bring for Comfort and Safety

Travelers should pack hat, drinks, water, jacket, comfortable clothes, long-sleeved shirt, outdoor clothing, daypack, closed-toe shoes, and a reusable water bottle. The guide recommends bringing trekking gear to ensure safety during the climb.

Given the mountain’s altitude and weather variability, layered clothing and protection from the sun are advisable. The tour’s duration of 9 hours means participants should be prepared for a full day of activity.

The Experience: Guided Support and Scenic Highlights

The small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures personalized attention from the English-speaking guide. The guide’s expertise shines through, as previous reviews praise their attentiveness and safety support, especially during the grade 3 scramble to Mytikas.

Throughout the climb, expect stunning vistas of Olympus’s peaks, gorges, and forests. The route offers opportunities for photos, admiring waterfalls, and taking in the mountain’s impressive geological features. The light snack provides a welcome energy boost during the ascent.

Reviews: Confirming the Quality and Experience

Reviewers consistently rate this tour 5 out of 5, highlighting the knowledgeable guides, spectacular views, and excellent equipment. One reviewer mentions that Dassos, the guide, drove the group to the refuge and helped ensure safety during the scramble.

Participants also appreciate the value for money, noting the high quality of equipment and the scenic off-road transfer. The tour’s challenge level and the safety measures are confirmed as positive aspects, making it suitable for those with good fitness and some rock climbing experience.

Who Would Enjoy the 1 Day Summit Olympus Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers seeking a challenging yet manageable climb of Olympus’s highest peak. It is ideal for those comfortable with physical activity, height, and rock scrambling.

The tour is not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues or certain health conditions. Good preparation and proper gear will enhance the experience, allowing participants to enjoy Olympus’s spectacular scenery safely.

Final Thoughts on the Olympus Summit in One Day

The 1 Day Summit Olympus tour combines adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance into a memorable day. The $215 price offers good value, including all equipment, transfers, and safety measures.

While the route is physically demanding, it rewards hikers with breathtaking views, the sense of achievement at Mytikas, and a deeper connection to Greece’s legendary mountain. This tour appeals especially to adventurers with some climbing experience who want a full-day challenge on Olympus’s storied slopes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It is best suited for those with good physical fitness and previous rock climbing experience. Participants should be comfortable with steep, rugged terrain and scrambling.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers guiding, climbing gear (helmet, harness), local transfers in a 4×4 vehicle, a light snack, a passport/info guide, taxes, and liability insurance.

How long does the climb take?
The entire tour lasts around 9 hours, including transfers, the ascent, and descent.

Can children participate?
The tour is not suitable for children under 13 due to the physical demands and safety considerations.

What gear should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, outdoor clothing, a hat, water, Drinks, a jacket, long-sleeved shirt, and a daypack. Proper layered clothing is recommended for changing weather.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized guidance.

Are there any physical or health restrictions?
Yes, participants should be in good physical and mental condition, without acrophobia, and should not have certain health issues like high blood pressure or heart problems. The climb involves steep and technical sections.

Is food provided during the tour?
A light snack is included, but meals and drinks beyond that are not included.

What is the difficulty level of the scramble to Mytikas?
It involves a grade 3 scramble, requiring good fitness and some previous climbing experience. Safety gear helps mitigate risks.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the season, with the best conditions typically in the mountain’s snow-free months. Check availability for specific dates.

What makes this tour different from other Olympus climbs?
This one-day route is less known and offers a more scenic, less crowded experience, with personalized guiding and all gear included.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby