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Brand New!

Climb Mount Olympus (2918m)

  • Greece
  • 3 nights

Summit the highest mountain in Greece and stand on top of the 'Mountain of the Gods'

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with an expert, local, English-speaking mountain guide
  • Guesthouse & Mountain hut2 nights in a guesthouse, 1 night in a mountain refuge
  • Meals2 breakfasts at your guesthouse
  • TransfersAirport transfers and everything in between
  • GearHelmet, harness, and rope
  • Maximum group size: 8Join small n’ sociable groups of like-minded, active and outdoorsy people – designed to be solo-friendly

FromPrice loadingexcluding flights

Highlights

  • Climb to the summit of the legendary Mount Olympus (9,575 ft), one of the world's most famous peaks

  • Hike along forested trails to explore the beautiful, varied landscape, the mythic home of the Greek gods

  • Ascend and descend along different trails for a unique, unforgettable experience each day

Itinerary

    Day 1

    Head to Litochoro, at the foot of Mount Olympus

    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    Show Day 1 detail

    Arrive in the coastal city of Thessaloniki – the second largest city in Greece, it's considered to be Greece's cultural capital. It is a fantastic place to explore on foot, so we recommend you fly in early if you have time. Your host will pick you up late afternoon and take you to Litochoro: a small town at the base of Mount Olympus (opens in new tab), which is about an hour and a half's drive away. Settle into your guesthouse, then you can head out for dinner with your group.

    Day 2

    To the 'Plateau of Muses'

    Hiking
    7-8hrs · 7mi · 5249ft up
    Mountain hut
    Mixed dorm
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 2 detail

    It's an early start this morning as you set off on a drive to the trailhead at Prionia (3,609 ft). The trail meanders through a forest of pine, fir, and birch and you'll meet hikers from all over the world, before breaking through the treeline and getting a stunning view of the many summits of Mount Olympus. Push on to the refuge at 8,694 ft where you'll be spending the night – here, you can relax with a hot meal and a view over the 'Plateau of Muses'.

    Day 3

    Summit Mount Olympus

    Hiking
    7-8hrs · 7mi · 715ft up · 5906ft down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    Show Day 3 detail

    After an early breakfast, your guide will decide which of the two potential summits to attempt based on weather conditions and the group's fitness. The first option is to ascend Skala Peak (9,450 ft) and cross a narrow ridge to the adjacent Skolio Peak (9,552 ft). The tougher option is to attempt the mountain's highest summit, Mytikas (9,576 ft) – but with a couple of hundred feet of exposed scrambling at the end, this route will be a challenge. Either way, you'll enjoy some incredible views over the surrounding gorges and peaks before descending along a different path to the Gkortsia trailhead, where you’ll return to Litochoro. Celebrate your summit success with a cold afternoon beer.

  4. Day 4

    Time to head home

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before getting into the van for your transfer back to Thessaloniki Airport, or you can be dropped off in the city itself if you want to explore Thessaloniki.

Practical Stuff

Getting There

Nearest airport
Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport (SKG)
Pick up
Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)
17:00 on Day 1
Drop off
Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)
12:00 on Day 4

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

Your host will pick you up at Thessaloniki Airport at 5:00 PM on Day 1, and drop you back at 12:00 PM on Day 4. It takes around 1.5 hours to get to Litochoro.

If you want to explore Thessaloniki as part of your trip, you can be collected instead from Aristotelous Square in central Thessaloniki at 5:30 PM on Day 1, and/or dropped back there at 11:00 AM on Day 4. Just let your host know in advance.

Travel options

There are direct flights to Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) from across Europe, or you can connect in Athens for more flexible options. If you arrive early or are staying on late: it takes around 30 minutes to get to Thessaloniki city centre by taxi.

Trip level explained

Level 6

Challenging-Tough

This is a proper challenge! Both days involve long hikes with a full pack and as much as 5,249 ft of elevation. You should be comfortable with walking 8-9 hours per day on rough terrain for two consecutive days. Much of the route is along a hiking path of medium difficulty, with several impressive drops close by that might be scary for those with a fear of heights. At times, you will be moving over steep and uneven rocky terrain with narrow paths and exposed sections. This requires stamina, a head for heights, and good balance.

The summit of Mytikas requires some scrambling, so previous experience of this is recommended, but not essential. Ropes will be used for additional safety, but are not technically required to reach the summit. If any member of the group does not want to do this part of the trip, the second-highest peak of Mount Olympus, Skolio, (9,551 ft) offers an equally amazing view and can be reached by an easy/medium difficulty hiking path, without steep sections.

To enjoy this trip fully, you should be an experienced hiker with a good level of fitness. Challenging trips generally require committing to some training and preparation in the weeks leading up to your trip. Accompanying cardio, strength, and flexibility training will help you be in the best shape possible to enjoy this trip.

High altitude (over 8,200 ft): factors to consider

This trip visits locations at or above 8,200ft, where some people may experience symptoms of Altitude Sickness (opens in new tab), also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Previous experience at altitude doesn’t guarantee the same response again – your body can react differently on each trip. However, having been at altitude before is still valuable: it gives you a better understanding of how your body might respond, what symptoms to look out for, and how to manage your pace and energy levels.

Your guide is trained to manage the risk of altitude sickness by controlling the rate of ascent, monitoring group well-being, and responding appropriately if anyone feels unwell.

Before booking, we recommend considering your personal health, particularly if you have any pre-existing conditions, and consulting a medical professional if you’re unsure. Arriving early to allow your body to acclimatize can also make a big difference.

Your travel insurance must cover the maximum altitude reached on this trip and include emergency evacuation.

Hot climate: factors to consider

This trip operates in areas where daytime temperatures can reach extreme levels, with limited shade and, at times, high humidity adding to the challenge. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness. Your guide will adjust the pace and monitor the group closely, but staying well hydrated, wearing suitable clothing, and using sun protection is essential.

Before traveling, consider your ability to remain active in high temperatures and consult a medical professional if you have any concerns, especially if you have cardiovascular or heat-sensitive conditions. Arriving a day or two before the trip may help you adjust gradually to the heat.

Remote environment: factors to consider

Some parts of this trip take place in areas where access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited. This may mean that reaching medical care takes longer than you might normally expect, or that local medical facilities have fewer resources than those you may be used to at home.

If someone becomes unwell or injured, initial treatment may be provided locally before onward travel to a larger hospital or city for further care. Evacuation could involve changing the planned route or using different forms of transportation to reach appropriate medical facilities. Mobile phone coverage may also be intermittent in some locations.

Your guide is trained to manage situations in remote environments and will monitor the group and respond appropriately if any issues arise. However, it’s important that you let your guide know straight away if you feel unwell or experience any health concerns during the trip.

Before booking, consider your personal health and ability to travel in locations where access to medical care may be delayed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we recommend seeking advice from a medical professional and discussing them with your host before traveling.

All travelers must have suitable travel insurance that covers the activities included in the trip and emergency medical evacuation if required.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Guided hike from Prionia to the Plateau of Muses
  • Guided hike to summit Mount Olympus and descent to Gkortsia

  • Expert, local, English-speaking mountain guide

  • 2 nights in a guesthouse
  • 1 night in a mountain refuge

  • 2 breakfasts at your guesthouse

  • Group arrival transfer from Thessaloniki Airport on Day 1
  • Group departure transfer to Thessaloniki Airport on Day 4
  • Transfers during the trip

  • Helmet, harness, and rope

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • Hotel Archontiko Afroditi in Litochoro, Greece.

    Litochoro

    Stay

    Litochoro

    On the first and last nights of your adventure, you will be staying in a comfortable guesthouse in Litochoro, a small town sitting at the foot of Mount Olympus. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with en suite bathrooms.

  • Kakkalos Refuge, Mount Olympus, Greece. Nikos Laskaridis - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Olympus17.jpg

    Mount Olympus

    Stay

    Mount Olympus

    You'll stay in a rustic but comfortable mountain refuge above the treeline in a mixed dorm – either the Kakkalos Refuge or Apostolidis Refuge (depending on availability). Mattresses and warm blankets are provided and there is a common room where you can mingle with the other hikers and take meals. Alternatively, you can camp outside. Please note that the refuge does not have a shower and isn't connected to the electricity grid, with power supplied by solar panels and generators that are only available for a few hours each day (usually from dusk until around 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM).

What You'll Eat

Refuges on Mount Olympus serve simple, filling meals for around €10-15 per person. Breakfast usually consists of bread, butter, marmalade, honey, cheese, coffee/tea/milk and chocolate spreads. Lunch is often sandwiches, fruits, eggs, energy snacks an…

Food and Dietary info

Refuges on Mount Olympus serve simple, filling meals for around €10-15 per person. Breakfast usually consists of bread, butter, marmalade, honey, cheese, coffee/tea/milk and chocolate spreads. Lunch is often sandwiches, fruits, eggs, energy snacks and chocolate, while dinners usually offer some combination of soup, pasta with sauce, lentils with rice, beef with pasta, rice or mashed potatoes, and sausage with pasta, rice or mashed potatoes.

Optional Extras

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Litochoro village extra night (double/twin room)
$142/per night
Litochoro village extra night (single room)
$122/per night

Upgrades

in Litochoro only (not in the mountain hut)
$122/per person

For solo travellers looking for their own space, it is possible to request a private room upgrade on Day 1 and Day 3 of the trip (when you are staying at the guesthouse in Litochoro) – see Optional Extras for pricing. Please request this at the time of booking (subject to availability).

Transfers

Private transfer from Thessaloniki city or airport to Litochoro village (per vehicle per way)
$232

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Ratings & Reviews

This trip is brand new!

So new, in fact, that it's not got any reviews yet. But rest assured, it's been designed with the same care, quality and attention to detail as all of our highly rated adventures.

4.8
Our average trip score20,000+ reviews

This trip is brand new!

So new, in fact, that it's not got any reviews yet. But rest assured, it's been designed with the same care, quality and attention to detail as all of our highly rated adventures.

4.8
Our average trip score20,000+ reviews
Showing all 0 reviews

Before You Travel

What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What's included?
  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Rope
What's available to rent?
  • Trekking poles, trekking boots, flashlights, ice axe, crampons, gaiters, goggles, jackets, pants, sleeping bag, and sleeping bag liner are all items that can be rented and paid for locally. Please contact your host for any questions regarding renting gear.
What do I need to bring?
  • Large, comfortable backpack (40L) with padded straps and waist belt (internal frame preferred)
  • Waterproof liner for keeping clothing dry
  • Sturdy, worn in hiking boots/shoes
  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Warm clothes for windy/cool conditions during the day and cooler evenings (fleece top, insulated jacket etc)
  • Shorts/long pants for walking (preferably quick-drying material)
  • Long sleeved tops/t-shirts for walking (preferably quick-drying material)
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Sleeping bag (optional - blankets will also be available at the refuges if you would prefer)
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, neck buff, sun cream)
  • Quick dry towel (optional)
  • Flashlight (headlamp if you have one)
  • Walking poles (optional)
  • 1-2 liter reusable water bottle or bladder
  • First aid kit (plasters or blister kit, aspirin or similar, antiseptic)
  • Personal toiletries
  • Earplugs (optional)
  • Energy snacks (optional, as you can buy these at the refuges)

FAQs

There is a mountain spring in Prionia and another about 45 minutes further on where you can refill your bottle. There are no other springs close to the hiking routes so bringing enough water with you is essential. Alternatively, you can buy a bottle of water at the refuge for €1 - €2, however, please remember to take this with you when you leave the mountain to keep this beautiful landscape as clean and perfect as possible.

Any excess luggage can be safely left at your local host's trekking office in Litochoro.

In adverse weather conditions, it may not be safe to ascend the exposed peaks. Your local host will monitor weather conditions and act accordingly. In the event of high amounts of snow in spring, it may be necessary to modify the itinerary of earlier departures in the year to ensure your safety and enjoyment during the trip.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with (opens in new tab). You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website (opens in new tab), where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).

If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State (opens in new tab).

For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information (opens in new tab) and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset (opens in new tab); a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here (opens in new tab) for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Mount Olympus has a large elevation range, which makes the weather highly variable. Summer temperatures generally range between 32 and 68 °F, with cooler temperatures occurring near the top, especially at night. Strong winds are typical above the treeline, while most days are sunny or partly sunny, with thunderstorms occurring roughly a third of the days during summer. Before you travel, your host will be happy to assist with any questions on the mountain conditions and the best clothing and gear for your trip; some items will be available for rent on arrival, see the Gear List section above for more details.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 188kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust (opens in new tab) to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre (opens in new tab) programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here (opens in new tab).

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Departure dates

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2027

Thursday 24th June 2027

to Sunday 27th June 2027

$1,516

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