Nea Kameni Volcano

Overview

Nea Kameni is the youngest volcanic island in the eastern Mediterranean, rising from the center of the Santorini caldera. Still classified as an active volcano, it offers visitors the rare experience of walking across a volcanic landscape with steaming fumaroles, sulfur deposits, and multiple craters formed by eruptions spanning from 1573 to 1950.

Highlights

• Active fumaroles: Steaming vents emitting sulfuric gases near the summit craters, a reminder of the volcano's ongoing activity.
• Multiple craters: The 1940 and 1950 eruption craters are clearly visible from the summit trail.
• Caldera views: A unique perspective looking outward at the caldera walls from inside the crater basin.

History

Nea Kameni began forming in 1573 CE when volcanic activity pushed new rock above sea level. Major eruptions occurred in 1707–1711, 1866–1870, 1925–1928, and most recently 1939–1941 and 1950. The island continues to grow slowly, and seismic monitoring stations track ongoing geological activity.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Landing fee of €5 is collected at the dock and is separate from boat tour costs.
• Tip 2: The 30-minute hike to the summit is over loose volcanic rock — wear closed-toe shoes with good grip.
• Duration: 2–2.5 hours including boat transfer.