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Nea Kameni: Santorini's Volcanic Heart

Explore Santorini's volcanic island: Hike to the crater, witness steaming vents, and experience a landscape shaped by fire.

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Nea Kameni is a small, uninhabited volcanic island in the center of Santorini's caldera. Formed by a series of eruptions over the past two millennia, it offers a unique landscape and the chance to walk on an active volcano.

A brief summary to Nea Kameni Island

  • Santorini, GR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on uneven volcanic terrain.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as there is little shade on the island.
  • Be prepared for the strong smell of sulfur from the active vents.
  • Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile environment and for your safety.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    The only way to reach Nea Kameni is by boat from Santorini. Numerous tour operators offer excursions from the Old Port of Fira (Gialos), Athinios Ferry Port, Ammoudi (Oia), or Vlychada. Typical tours include a visit to Nea Kameni, a swim in the hot springs at Palea Kameni, and a stop at the island of Therasia. Boat trips to Nea Kameni typically cost between €30-€40 for adults. The entrance fee to Nea Kameni is €5 for adults.

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Discover more about Nea Kameni Island

Nea Kameni, meaning "New Burnt," is the youngest volcanic landmass in the Eastern Mediterranean. This nearly round island, roughly 2 kilometers in diameter, is a stark reminder of the powerful geological forces that shaped Santorini. The island's black lava fields and the steaming crater create a surreal, lunar-like landscape. Formed through a series of eruptions, with the first occurring around 1570 AD, Nea Kameni continues to evolve. Major eruptions in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries have contributed to its growth, with the most recent activity in 1950. Scientists from the Institute for the Study and Monitoring of the Santorini Volcano (ISMOSAV) closely monitor the island. Visitors can hike to the top of the 130-meter-high crater, following a gravel path. From the summit, panoramic views of the caldera, Santorini's cliffs, and the surrounding Aegean Sea unfold. The air is thick with the smell of sulfur, a testament to the volcano's active vents. One notable vent, named Jorgo (George), was named after King George I of Greece. Nea Kameni is more than just a geological wonder; some believe that Santorini may be the location of the lost city of Atlantis. Whether fact or legend, the island's dramatic history and unique environment make it a compelling destination.

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