Trekking in Zagori

Dragon Lake: The Mythical Alpine Trek

Ascend to the rugged peaks of Epirus and discover the legendary Dragon Lake (Drakolimni). Witness a breathtaking alpine landscape at 2,050 meters, surrounded by the towering Astraka peaks and the wild beauty of the Vikos-Aoos National Park.

Difficulty:
Moderate

Duration:
8 hours

The experience:

Experience the ultimate alpine challenge and discover the legends of the Pindus mountain range.

We start our ascent from the village of Mikro Papigo, following a well-marked path to the mountain refuge of Astraka. Throughout the climb, we have excellent views of the Papigo Towers and Mount Nemertsika (in Albania), among others. Then we descend to the dry (during the summer) lake Xerolimni, which was formed by glaciers millions of years ago. After that, a steep hike to the lake rewards us with the satisfaction of reaching 2,050 meters, where Balkan wild goats roam and the views of the Aoos Gorge and Mount Smolikas are simply breathtaking.

Free Cancellation: Full refund up to 24 hours before.

30+ Years of Excellence: Book directly with the Epirus specialists.

Difficulty: Moderate

Ages: 04+ years old.

Duration: 8 hours (full day activity)

Location: Mikro Papigo, Zagori

Top Ηighlights

Conquer the ascent to the mythical Dragon Lake, a stunning alpine wonder perched at an altitude of 2,050 meters.
Marvel at the Papigo Towers and the panoramic views of Mount Nemertsika as you follow the well-marked trails of Mount Tymfi.
Spot the Balkan wild goats in their natural habitat and explore Xerolimni, a prehistoric lake basin formed by ancient glaciers.
Gaze upon the Aoos Gorge and Mount Smolikas, the second-highest mountain in Greece, from the rewarding summit of your trek.
Experience a private journey with a personal, fluent English-speaking guide ensuring your safety and comfort at every step.
Savor a traditional light lunch in the heart of the mountains, featuring homemade veggie pie and local Epirote treats.

Detailed Description

Trekking to the mythical Dragon Lake (Drakolimni) is the ultimate alpine experience in the rugged mountains of Epirus. This legendary lake, surrounded by high peaks and steeped in local folklore, offers some of the most dramatic views in all of Greece.

Our expedition begins from the stone-built village of Mikro Papigo. We follow a well-marked path ascending toward the Astraka mountain refuge, with the iconic Papigo Towers standing guard over our route. After reaching the plateau, we descend into the basin of Xerolimni, a dry lake formed by glaciers millions of years ago, before the final steep hike to the Dragon Lake at 2,050 meters.

The reward at the summit is incomparable: a mirror-like lake inhabited by alpine tritons, the vast expanse of the Aoos Gorge, and the towering silhouette of Mount Smolikas. During our rest, you will enjoy a traditional light lunch including homemade veggie pie and fresh fruits. This 8-hour private trek is designed for those who seek to push their limits and witness the wild, untouched heart of the Pindus mountain range.

*Note: Suitable for active children 08+ and adults. A good physical condition is required for this full-day alpine ascent.

What's Included

What to Bring

Important Information

Meeting Point

Capturing the Experience

The adventure through our lens. See snapshots filled with action, smiles, and the pristine natural beauty of Zagori, and get ready for your own unforgettable Trekking experience in the heart of the Vikos-Aoos National Park, the deepest canyon in the world.

What Our Clients Say

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Stamatia G 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing experience! The experience was great and unique, the guide was very friendly and knowledgeable The river and nature was absolutely gorgeous..! Definitely worth it we would do it again!!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Moti S 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing rafting experience for families We were a family of 5, 2 adults and 3 kids. The amazing Kosta was our guide. He calmly and pleasantly explained everything, made sure we feel comfortable and practice the rafting instructions. The kids LOVED it. He explain led about the river and surrounding while we were rafting along the river. The view was amazing (even though it was December). It wasn’t cold at all due the suits and equipment they provided. I’d highly recommend and already planning the same thing in summer :) thank you for a great experience
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dhrumil D 
 
 
 
 Verified Voidomatis river rafting Costas was a very good guide. The fee was reasonable. It took around 2 hours for the whole experience. The 6km stretch of the river was beautiful. The water was crystal clear. We were only 2 of us as it was off season but we still had a great experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Navigator63485740875 
 
 
 
 Verified שווה מדריך רציני אחראי ומאד שרותי .העברית שגורה בפיהם היתה חוויה (פחות מים אז לא היה סוער) נעימה הנופים ההסבאים הכל ביחד ועשו מלא תמונות.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Danai L 
 
 
 
 Verified Totally recommended It was a great experience that exceeded our expectations. Even though it was our first time, our guides made us feel safe and comfortable. They were supportive, helpful and funny. Totally recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dannyboym74 
 
 
 
 Verified A beautiful trip on the Viodomatis Great time on the Viodomatis River with Jordi as our guide. Beautiful nature everywhere, and Jordi was super knowledgeable about it. Highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dannyboym74 
 
 
 
 Verified Great Canyoning Experience Had a great time with my son on this canyoning experience. Dimitria and Vasilis were super fun and professional. Zagori nature at its best!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dannyboym74 
 
 
 
 Verified Great fun on the Arachthus river Beautiful family rafting with Orestis as our guide. We highly recommend Alpine Zone! Amazing views of the area! We had a great time!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Phillip Shalom Alexander 
 
 
 
 Verified An exciting,invigorating, enchancing Arachthos excursion Outstanding experience in every way. From the ease in reserving an open slot, the high quality equipment ,the professionalism of the staff and the beauty of the scenery all made for a memoriable and worthwhile day.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   תהילה ש 
 
 
 
 Verified wonderful It was a wonderful experience with dear George, who was incredibly kind. With lots of jokes and great control of the boat. We enjoyed every moment.

💡 Did you know?

The Dragon Lake (Drakolimni) of Mount Tymfi is home to the Alpine Triton (Ichthyosaura alpestris), a rare amphibian that looks like a miniature dragon! Local legends tell of two dragons living on the peaks of Tymfi and Smolikas who fought by throwing massive rocks at each other, which explains the scattered boulders found around the lake today.

From

€70

per person