Kerkini Tour & birdwatching

Lake Kerkini is one of the most prominent wetlands of Europe, protected by Greek and European laws. This tour is a great opportunity to explore and familiarise oneself with this beautiful area. About 300 species of birds live and reproduce in this unique ecosystem of numerous species of flora, and in the water lily covered areas.

As the lake was created from a dam, the depth of the water varies depending on the season. There are areas that one can actually walk on during one season, and during others, require a boat.

The tour includes carefully selected accommodation, in a welcoming, charming hotel, which also offers a variety of activities like canoeing, boating, biking, 4x4 tours and an excellent restaurant with traditional cuisine.

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This is a proposed itinerary, which includes a variety of attractions and activities that will help you familiarise yourself with the area, but you can follow your own programme if you prefer.

Day 1
Lake Kerkini is about an hour and a half away from Thessaloniki airport, so you can visit our lively and fascinating city before driving there.

Day 2
A day tour around the lake is the best way to understand its importance in terms of ecology and natural environment. Following a clock-wise direction, you will drive next to the impressive slopes of Mountain Kerkini on the north side of the lake. After the bridge over Strimonas River, you should follow the East bank until you reach the artificial dam at Lithotopos. The pelicans here are used to the presence of humans, and you can see them feeding at the hands of the fishermen.
The road back to the hotel follows the bank of the lake and you will have many opportunities to take great photos of rare birds and beautiful scenery.

Day 3
There are many ways to explore the area of Lake Kerkini and the selection is up to you. Boat tour, canoe, mountain bike, 4x4 vehicle tour, hiking and bird watching can make your stay in Kerkini unforgettable!
And if you are prefer to just take it easy, you can relax in the cool garden.

Day 4
Srtimonas River flows into Lake Kerkini from Bulgaria. We suggest you visit its valley and the WWII monument at Rupel Fortress, on your way to the small village of Aggistro, which offers revitalising thermal baths.

Day 5
Mountain Kerkini lies on the north of the lake and offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding areas. Use your own vehicle if you just want to visit the area or participate in a 4x4 vehicle tour that will take you high up the mountain through extreme off road routes.

Day 6
Along with the activities around Lake Kerkini, we suggest a visit to the nearby villages of Ano Poroia, Kato Poroia and Makrinitsa. You can take some great pictures and of course buy local products like homemade marmalades and herbs collected from the area from the Women's Agriculture Association in Ano Poroia.

Day 7
Even if it is not your hobby, you should spend some time bird watching in Kerkini, as it is one of the most important wetlands in Europe and home to many rare and endangered species.
You should also visit one of the buffalo farms in the area, as 85% of their population in Greece lives in Kerkini!

Day 8
You should depart for Thessaloniki Airport, keeping in mind that you will need approximately an hour and a half to get there.