Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Get to the crater early to beat the heat, wear sturdy shoes, and bring plenty of water.
Nisyros Volcano (Stefanos Crater)
Stefanos Crater, Nisyros Caldera, Nisyros 853 03
GPS 36.5822, 27.17
Open directionsGetting there
How to reach the crater from Kos.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Ferry or tour boat from Kardamena (Kos) to Mandraki (Nisyros). | 45-60 mins | €20-€35 return | Usually departs around 9:30 AM and returns at 3:30 PM; sea conditions can occasionally be breezy. |
| Bus: Tour bus or local bus from Mandraki port to Stefanos Crater. | 25-30 mins | €8-€10 return or included in tour | Winds up the coastal mountain and descends deep into the caldera to reach the crater parking area. |
| Tour: Organized full-day excursion from Kos including hotel pickup, boat, and bus transfer. | 7-8 hours total | €35-€50 | The most convenient and common way to visit; note that the €5 crater entry fee is usually collected separately. |
| Car: Renting a car or scooter on Nisyros upon arrival at Mandraki port. | 20 mins to crater | €30-€45 per day | Provides flexibility to visit the crater before the tour buses arrive and allows easy access to Nikia village. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
Boats run regularly from May to October. The best months are May, June, September, and October. Arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Midday heat radiating from the crater floor is severe.
What to bring
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Closed-toe shoes are mandatory inside the crater.
The ground gets extremely hot and sandals are strictly prohibited.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to spend your day.
The typical schedule when booking an organized tour from Kos.
- Depart Kardamena
Board the ferry or tour boat in Kos.
- Arrive in Mandraki
Transfer directly to a tour bus.
- Stefanos Crater
Spend 30-45 minutes walking the crater floor.
- Mandraki Village
Return to the port for lunch and explore the alleys.
- Return Boat
Ferry departs Nisyros for Kos.
Using boat tickets and renting a vehicle on Nisyros.
- Depart Kardamena
Take the morning ferry.
- Rent a Car
Pick up a rental car or scooter at Mandraki port.
- Nikia Village
Drive up to Nikia for views and the Volcanological Museum.
- Stefanos Crater
Drive down into the caldera after the morning tour buses leave.
- Mandraki Harbor
Late lunch at a taverna before the ferry.
Crater rules and safety
The Stefanos crater is an active hydrothermal environment. Do not touch the steaming vents or bubbling mud. Temperatures approach 100°C (212°F) and can cause severe burns. Stick to the marked routes to avoid unstable ground.
You must wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes. Do not remove sulfur crystals or rocks. Drones are prohibited without prior official permission. If visiting with kids, keep them close at all times.
Easiest way to do it
Full-Day Tour to Nisyros The Volcano Island
8 h 4.5 (549)
- Transfer to Volcano
- Tour escort/host
- Transport to Kardamena Port
From$34per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How long is the bus ride to the crater?
The bus ride from Mandraki port up the mountain and down into the caldera takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
How much time do I need inside the crater?
Most visitors and tour groups spend 30 to 45 minutes exploring the floor of the Stefanos crater.
Are there facilities at the crater?
There is a ticket booth and a restroom building near the entrance. Bring your own drinking water, as there is no shade.