Hike Mt.Olympus highest peak (Mytikas 2918m) in 1 day!

Discover the Thrill of Summiting Mt. Olympus in One Day

This guided hike to Mt. Olympus’s highest peak, Mytikas, offers a remarkable adventure in Greece. For $201.98 per person, you get to summit Greece’s tallest mountain, standing at 2,918 meters (9,570 feet), in approximately 10 hours. The tour is designed for those with good fitness levels who want a safe, well-organized ascent without multiple days of trekking.

The experience begins in Kalivia, where you meet your guide and hop into a 4WD vehicle that takes you partway up the mountain. After reaching the Christakis mountain hut at 2,430 meters, the journey continues on foot, following the E4 European Trail to the summit. With included safety equipment like helmets and harnesses, this is a comprehensive and accessible way to enjoy Greece’s most revered mountain, even if you’re pressed for time.

Key Points

• Full-day guided hike to Mytikas, Mt. Olympus’s highest peak
• Includes 4WD transfer from Kalivia to the mountain hut
• Suitable for active participants with good fitness levels
• Safety gear, including helmets and harnesses, provided
• Small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures personalized attention
• Weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or full refund if canceled due to poor conditions

Starting Point in Kalivia for a Smooth Begin

The tour kicks off at Kalyvia (402 00), Greece, at 8:00 am. From this central location, the group boards a 4×4 vehicle for a scenic drive up the mountain. The initial 20-kilometer stretch is on tarmac, followed by about an hour on a dirt road that ascends to Christakis mountain hut at 2,430 meters.

This convenient pickup point allows for a well-organized start, avoiding the need for complex logistics. The early start also helps beat the afternoon weather changes, which can include clouds or snowfall, as noted in some reviews.

The 4WD Journey: From Kalivia to Christakis Mountain Hut

After meeting in Kalivia, travelers experience a comfortable 1-hour drive up the mountain. The route covers 20 kilometers of tarmac followed by 22 kilometers of dirt road. The drive culminates at the mountain hut, where the group transitions from vehicle to trail.

This combination of vehicle and foot travel makes the ascent accessible for those who might find a full-day hike daunting. It also ensures that the most physically demanding sections are manageable, focusing the effort on the trail to the summit itself.

Trail to the Summit: Following the E4 European Trail

From the mountain hut, the hike begins on foot along the E4 European Trail. The path takes around 60 to 70 minutes to reach the peak of Skolio (2,912 meters), where the terrain becomes more challenging.

The trail crosses the summit of Skolio, offering stunning views, before heading toward Kakoskala and then scrambling upward to Mytikas. The final push involves some scrambling and requires good physical fitness, but safety equipment like helmets and harnesses makes this safer. Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of achievement.

Climbing the Last Leg: Scrambling to Mytikas

The ascent to Mytikas involves navigating rocky terrain with some scrambling, making it the most physically demanding part of the hike. This section tests endurance but is well-supported with safety gear. The guides are experienced and ensure the group stays secure and comfortable during this final push.

Reaching the highest point on Greece’s highest mountain is a highlight, offering sweeping vistas and a memorable sense of accomplishment. The summit at 2,918 meters is the pinnacle of the day, and the panoramic views make every step worthwhile.

Safety and Equipment: Ensuring a Secure Climb

Safety is a clear priority for this tour. Helmets and harnesses are included, and guides with mountain rescue backgrounds lead the group. Despite the challenging terrain, the small size of the tour (maximum 8 travelers) allows for attentive supervision and personalized safety measures.

Participants are expected to have moderate physical fitness, as the hike involves some scrambling and elevation gain. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so wearing sunscreen and proper clothing is advised. The guides are adept at navigating variable weather, and the tour can be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to poor conditions.

The Descent and Return to Kalivia

After summiting, the group retraces the trail back to Kakoskala, then descends toward the mountain hut. From there, the 4WD vehicle waits to take everyone back down the mountain and to the starting point in Kalivia.

The entire day offers a satisfying mix of vehicle transfer and hiking, making the experience accessible yet adventurous. The descent is generally quicker but still requires attention to footing, especially if conditions are slippery or icy.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This guided ascent to Mytikas stands out because of its seamless combination of 4WD transfer and manageable hiking sections. It provides a safe and efficient way to reach Greece’s highest point in just one day, perfect for those with a good fitness level but limited time.

The inclusion of safety equipment and the small group size enhances comfort and security. Plus, the expert guides, praised for their professionalism, make the experience both enjoyable and safe, even in less-than-ideal weather like clouds or light snowfall.

Who Will Appreciate This Adventure

This tour caters best to active travelers who want a challenging yet safe climb to a famous mountain. It suits those with good physical fitness who enjoy mountain scenery and are comfortable with some scrambling terrain.

The tour is ideal for visitors seeking a guided experience that minimizes logistical concerns, thanks to the vehicle transfer and included safety gear. However, it’s less suitable for those seeking a leisurely walk or with mobility limitations, given the terrain and scramble sections.

Final Thoughts on the Mt. Olympus Summit Hike

This small-group guided tour offers a well-organized, safe, and rewarding way to reach Mytikas, Greece’s highest summit. The combination of vehicle transfer to the mountain hut and a trail ascent makes it accessible for fit travelers eager to stand at the peak in a single day.

While weather can be unpredictable, the guides’ experience and safety equipment help ensure a secure climb. The intimate group size and praise for the guides’ professionalism add to the overall appeal.

This experience is perfect for those who want to conquer Greece’s tallest mountain with expert support and minimal logistical stress. For an unforgettable adventure in Greece’s legendary landscape, this tour delivers on both challenge and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour requires good physical fitness and comfort with scrambling terrain. It’s best suited for active travelers who are used to hiking at altitude.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guide services, safety equipment (helmets, harnesses), and transport via 4WD from Kalivia to the mountain hut.

Can the hike be canceled due to weather?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a rescheduling option or full refund.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear suitable hiking gear, including sunscreen, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

How long is the hike from the mountain hut to the summit?
The trail from the mountain hut to Mytikas takes approximately 60 to 70 minutes each way, with some scrambling involved.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Is transportation provided back to Kalivia after the hike?
Yes, a 4WD vehicle transports the group back down after the summit.

How physically demanding is the ascent?
The climb involves some scrambling and steep sections, suitable for those with moderate to good fitness.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Reaching Mytikas, enjoying stunning panoramic views, and experiencing the unique terrain of Mt. Olympus are key highlights.

Can I do this tour if I have limited hiking experience?
This tour is best for those with good fitness levels and experience with hiking or scrambling terrain. It may not be suitable for complete beginners.