Mount Olympus Hiking Experience – Trekking in Greece

If you’re dreaming of standing atop Greece’s highest peak or simply want to breathe in the mountain air and see stunning landscapes, the Mount Olympus Hiking Experience offers a compelling option. While we haven’t personally tried this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-organized, memorable adventure that appeals to those with a good level of fitness and a love for nature.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines the challenge of reaching the summit with the comfort of guided support and overnight refuges. The inclusion of professional guides who prioritize safety and share their knowledge can make all the difference, especially on a mountain as legendary and sometimes tricky as Olympus. Also, travelers rave about the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment that comes with standing on top of Greece.

A possible consideration is the physical demand—this isn’t a casual hike; it’s a two-day trek that requires moderate fitness. The decision to attempt the ascent to Mytikas is left to the guide’s discretion, depending on weather and participant readiness. So, if you’re not an experienced hiker or are concerned about altitude, it’s worth thinking about whether this challenge suits you.

This tour is best suited for active travelers looking for a rewarding, immersive mountain experience—whether to conquer Olympus’s peak or to enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety and enrich the journey with insights.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking panoramas from the mountain’s highest points.
• Inclusive Overnights: Rest in mountain refuges with all necessary accommodations provided.
• Physical Challenge: Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels comfortable with long hikes.
• Weather-Dependent Climb: The ascent to Mytikas depends on weather and guide judgment.
• Authentic Touches: Many reviews mention the delicious food at refuges and the welcoming atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Trekking Itinerary

Day 1: Starting from Litochoros and Reaching the Moussa Plateau

The adventure kicks off in the charming town of Litochoros, where you meet your group and guide. From there, you’re driven about 13.5 km to Gortsias, perched at 1,123 meters. This is the starting point for your mountain trek, and it’s a manageable climb that takes around 2.5 hours to reach Petrostruga shelter at 1,940 meters. You’ll pass notable points such as Barba, Koka, and Strangos, which are interesting landmarks along the route.

One thing to highlight—many hikers mention the beautiful scenery during this first leg. You’ll traverse rocky terrain, alpine flora, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The walk to Petrostruga is fairly straightforward but rewarding, giving you an early taste of Olympus’s rugged beauty. From the shelter, the path continues upward, taking you through Skourta (around 2,476 meters), Laimos, and the Pass of Iossos, where you’ll get a chance to see the mystical plateau of the Muses. This plateau, often cited as a highlight, offers a surreal setting for photos and just soaking in the grandeur of Olympus.

The culmination of Day 1 is reaching the G. Apostolidis shelter on the Moussa plateau, where you’ll settle in for the night. Many reviews mention the comfort of the refuges and the hearty, simple food served there—perfect for recharging after a long day’s walk.

Day 2: Conquering Mytikas and Returning

Day 2 is the big one—climbing to Mytikas (2,918 meters), the highest point in Greece. An early start, a hearty breakfast, and then the ascent begins. The climb to Mytikas is physically demanding, requiring extra effort, especially since altitude can be a factor. The safety of climbers is a priority; guides assess weather and participant fitness carefully before proceeding.

Many travelers who’ve attempted the summit share that the effort is absolutely worth it. The view from the top is described as spectacular, with some reviews mentioning seeing both sunset and sunrise from the peak. Once at the summit, you can sign the visitors’ book and soak in the unmatched vistas of Olympus’s peaks and coastline.

After enjoying the summit, the descent takes you to Spilios Agapitos refuge, where you get a quick rest. The final part of the trek brings you down to Prionia, where your transport awaits to take you back to Litochoros.

Guides, Safety, and Flexibility

One aspect that comes through clearly from reviews is how much travelers appreciate the professionalism and experience of the guides. From safety briefings to encouragement, guides like Giannis, Christos, and Dimitris are noted for their calming presence and expertise. The guides also make thoughtful decisions about whether weather conditions allow for a summit attempt, prioritizing safety above all.

Overnights in Mountain Refuges

Staying overnight in refuges on Mount Olympus is a valued part of the experience. Many reviews praise the delicious, hearty food and the cozy atmosphere that makes the mountain feel welcoming despite its ruggedness. It’s a chance to rest, share stories with fellow travelers, and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Transport, Duration, and Cost

The entire experience is priced at around $415 per person, which includes accommodation in refuges, a knowledgeable guide, and transfers between Litochoros and Gortsias. The tour is designed as a two-day trek, with about 7-8 hours of walking on Day 1 and 8-9 hours on Day 2, making it a sizable physical undertaking but manageable with decent fitness.

Transportation to and from Athens or other towns is not included, so you’ll need to organize your own travel arrangements beforehand. The tour starts and ends in Litochoro, a convenient base for exploring Olympus.

What the Price Gets You

When you weigh the cost, you’re paying for a well-organized, guided trek through one of Greece’s most iconic landscapes. The inclusion of refuges and meals adds value for those wanting a supported experience without the hassle of logistics. According to reviews, the guides’ professionalism and safety awareness significantly enhance the overall value.

What Travelers Say About Their Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their expertise, making the challenging trek feel safe and approachable. Many mention the beautiful scenery and stunning views, often describing the sunrise or sunset from the summit as unforgettable. Several reviews highlight the delicious food at refuges, calling it hearty and satisfying after a long day.

One reviewer shared that the entire trip exceeded expectations, appreciating the flexibility and personalized support offered, even when the group was small or the weather was variable. Praise for the well-organized logistics and professional training of the guides is common, reinforcing the idea that this is a reliable, high-quality tour.

Challenges and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers note that the trek is physically demanding and not suited for complete beginners. The ascent to Mytikas, in particular, requires endurance and good health, and the decision to climb is weather-dependent. Also, travelers should be prepared to carry their gear and bring suitable clothing for variable conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy hiking and are comfortable with long walks and altitude. It’s suitable for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure in Greece’s mountains. The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly or for small children, but it’s perfect for anyone with moderate fitness, a sense of adventure, and a love for nature.

If you’re a solo traveler or part of a group looking for a guided, safe route to summit Greece’s highest peak, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed sightseeing day or have limited mobility, this might be too strenuous.

Final Thoughts

The Mount Olympus Hiking Experience offers a well-rounded, guided adventure into Greece’s most legendary mountain. With professional guides, comfortable refuges, and breathtaking scenery, it’s clear why so many travelers give it top marks. The opportunity to summit Mytikas and witness stunning sunrises or sunsets makes this a memorable journey for those prepared for the physical effort.

While the price might seem steep, the value comes from expert guidance, safety, comfort in refuges, and the once-in-a-lifetime views. It’s best suited for active, enthusiastic hikers ready to push themselves a little and soak in the rugged beauty of Olympus.

Overall, if you’re looking for a meaningful challenge and an authentic mountain experience, this trek is well worth considering. Just make sure you’re ready for the physical demands and can adapt to weather conditions, as those are the main factors influencing your summit success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This trek is more suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level. The climb to Mytikas requires extra effort and altitude tolerance, so it’s best for those comfortable with long hikes and some strenuous activity.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers accommodation in refuges on Mount Olympus, an English-speaking guide, transfers from Litochoro to Gortsias and back, and all taxes. Meals, drinks, and transport from Athens or other towns are not included.

Can I climb to Mytikas?
Climbing to the summit is subject to weather conditions and the guide’s discretion. The guide will assess if conditions are safe, and the decision to go for the peak depends on these factors.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves about 7-8 hours of walking on Day 1 and 8-9 hours on Day 2, with significant elevation gain. Travelers should be reasonably fit and prepared for a challenging experience.

Are meals provided during the trek?
Meals are not automatically included, but optional supplements like FB (breakfast, lunches, dinner) or HB (half-board with breakfast and dinner) are available.

What should I pack?
Bring a large, comfortable rucksack, sturdy trekking shoes, waterproof clothing, warm layers, sun protection, water bottles, and basic first aid supplies. Photography equipment and walking sticks are also recommended.

Is the tour family-friendly?
This experience is best suited for active adults or older teenagers. It’s not specifically designed for young children or families with limited mobility.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers, but many reviews mention smaller, more intimate groups, especially if conditions limit the number of climbers.

What happens if the weather cancels the summit?
If weather prevents the ascent to Mytikas, the guide will adjust the plans, and you may enjoy alternative hikes or spend more time exploring the refuges and surrounding landscapes.

If you’re craving an adventure that combines physical challenge with unforgettable mountain scenery, this guided trek could be just what you’re looking for. Just be sure to prepare physically and gear up properly—then get ready to stand on Greece’s highest point with an incredible view.