The Complete Guide to Hiking Drakolimni (Greek Dragon lake)

The hike to Drakolimni is definitely scenic, but also physically demanding and highly weather-dependent. The trail combines long ascents, exposed sections, and rapidly changing conditions. As you can imagine, good reparation is what determines whether the experience is manageable or unnecessarily difficult. 

In this guide you will find everything you need to know about one of the most famous and scenic hiking trails in Greece, the hike to the Drakolimni of Tymphi.

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What is Drakolimni?

The Drakolimni of Tymfi, directly translated to Dragon Lake, is an alpine lake located in the Tymfi mountain range in the Pindus mountain range of northern Greece. Specifically, it is situated in the Vikos–Aoös National Park.

That name was given because of the small lizard-like reptiles, called dragons, that live and swim in the lake. Well, I am not that sure about that. Truth is that I’ve heard a lot of different stories (There is also one about dragons fighting there) and explanations about the name, all of which are fascinating.

This lake is the final destination of one of the most popular hiking trails in the country, of course due to its natural beauty. However, reaching Drakolimni involves a quite challenging trek, but the reward is truly worth it.

Is Drakolimni Safe to Visit?

Drakolimni is one of Greece’s most impressive and popular natural sites, but at the same time it is one of the country’s most demanding hiking trails. The route is quite long with steep ascents. While the landscape is indeed magical, the hike requires respect, proper equipment, and careful planning.

Even if you are well prepared, travel insurance remains essential when visiting such an area. An unexpected sprain, the need for medical assistance on the mountain, or even a rescue operation can be costly and extremely stressful.

Personally, I trust and recommend SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance. I use it myself because it covers both medical incidents and cases of loss or delays, while the reimbursement process is simple and their response is very fast. This insurance also offers an add-on for adventure sports, which are generally not covered by other insurance providers. Convenient when traveling in the mountains of Greece, don’t you think?

You can learn more on their website.

Where should I stay before my Hike?

Based on my own experience, my suggestion would be to arrive a day or two before your hike and stay at the village of Mikro Papingo, located in the Zagori region. This village is known for its beautiful stone houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and fantastic views of the valley below. There are plenty of accomodation options available, as well.

We chose to stay at Hotel Papigo and had an amazing stay there. Rooms were spacious, clean and cozy. The location was awesome, just a few meters before the start of the hike. The views were also incredible, the hosts amazing, and the food as traditional as it gets. I would definitely recommend staying there, it was all well-worth it.

Alongside the hike, you can take your time in the village to enjoy a peaceful walk through the village, visit the watermills, and taste the local cuisine in one of the traditional taverns there.

Getting to Mikro Papingo

The most common (and easiest) way to reach Mikro Papingo is by car. Here are some general directions; Note that road conditions and transportation options may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date information.

1. By driving a Car

1. From Ioannina: Ioannina is a major city in the region and is often used as a starting point for trips to Mikro Papingo. Drive northeast on the E65 road towards Konitsa.
2. From Thessaloniki: If you’re coming from Thessaloniki, head west on the E65 toward Ioannina. Follow the directions above from Ioannina to Mikro Papingo.
3. From Athens: If you’re coming from Athens, the route is (a lot) longer. Take the E65 north, passing through Lamia, Trikala, and Kalambaka. Continue north to Metsovo and then head toward Ioannina on the E65.

Car rental companies can be found in both Ioannina, Thessaloniki and Athens.

2. By Public Transportation

Bus: Buses operate from Ioannina to various villages in the Zagori region, including Mikro Papingo. You can find the bus schedules to Ioannina (and then Mikro Papingo) from all major Greek cities through this website.

Keep in mind that schedules may change, so it’s a good idea to check and book in advance.

Is the Hike to Drakolimni Difficult?

The hike to Dragon Lake of Tymphi can be considered moderate to difficult, requiring a certain level of physical fitness and hiking experience. You should be prepared for steep and rocky sections, as well as some exposed areas along the way.

The difficulty of the hike also depends on the weather conditions. The trail can become more challenging during rainy or snowy weather, as it may get slippery and muddy. Furthermore, as we’ll discuss later, it can take quite a long time to complete, and that’s something to always keep in mind.

What is the Weather Like at Drakolimni?

The weather at Drakolimni can vary depending on the time of year. In the summer months, from June to August, it is generally mild and pleasant. Temperatures range from around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit).

During spring and autumn months, the weather at Drakolimni can be more unpredictable. Temperatures during these seasons can range from around 5 to 20 degrees Celsius (41 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). It is not uncommon to experience sudden rain showers or even snowfall during these months. You should be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear to handle changing weather conditions.

In the winter, from December to February, Drakolimni is covered in snow and the weather is cold. Temperatures can drop below freezing, with average temperatures ranging from -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). Hiking during this time requires specialized equipment and experience, as the terrain can be challenging and the weather conditions harsh.

I would urge you to check weather forecasts and consult with local authorities before attempting a winter hike to Drakolimni.

So, what is the best time to Hike Drakolimni?

The best time of year to hike Drakolimni is during the summer months. During this time, the weather is generally mild and the trails are more accessible. The snow has melted, allowing you to navigate the paths more easily.

The days are longer, providing infinite daylight for hiking and enjoying the views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Weather in the mountains can still be unpredictable, so I’d advise you to always check the forecast before your hike.

If you prefer to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful hiking experience, I would recommend you to visit Drakolimni during late spring or early autumn. The trails are less crowded, and you can enjoy a more serene atmosphere.

What should I pack for my hike?

Can I bring my dog on the hike to Dragon Lake of Tymphi?

Yes, you can bring your dog on the hike to Dragon Lake of Tymphi, but there are a few things to consider.

First, make sure your dog is physically fit and capable of handling the hike. The trail to the lake can be steep and challenging, so it’s important that your dog is in good health.

It’s also a good idea to check the weather conditions before heading out, as extreme heat or cold can be dangerous for your dog.

Furthermore, be mindful of other hikers and wildlife during the hike, and keep your dog on a leash to ensure their safety and the preservation of the natural environment. If your dog is easily frightened or aggressive towards other animals or people, it may be best to leave them at home to avoid any potential conflicts or disturbances during the hike.

I would recommend you to bring a collapsible water bowl for your dog to drink from. Additionally, pack some snacks or food for your dog to keep their energy levels up during the hike.

Remember to clean up after your dog and dispose of any waste properly to maintain the cleanliness of the trail and protect the ecosystem.

Bringing a first aid kit for your dog is also a wise precaution in case of any injuries or emergencies.

Finally, always prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being. If at any point during the hike your dog seems tired, overheated, or in distress, it’s important to take breaks, provide shade, and consider turning back.

The Drakolimni hiking trail, Explained

As I mentioned before, the trail to Drakolimni starts from the village of Mikro Papigo and is well-marked, making it relatively easy to follow.

The trail initially passes through a forest, offering a quite serene atmosphere. As you ascend, the landscape changes, and you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Along the way, you will encounter several natural springs, a good source of fresh water to refill your bottles. Your first stop will be at the Astraka Refuge.

The one-way distance from Mikro Papigo to the Astraka Refuge is around 8 kilometers. From there, you can continue your journey towards the Dragon Lake of Tymphi. If you want, you can stop for a beverage, lunch, dinner, or even stay overnight to continue your hike the next day.

The distance from the refuge to the lake is approximately 3 kilometers. However, the terrain can be challenging and steep in some sections, which may require additional time and effort to navigate.

As you approach Drakolimni, the final stretch of the trail involves some scrambling and requires careful footing. However, the effort is well worth it once you reach the turquoise-colored lake, located in a glacial cirque. The lake is surrounded by impressive mountain peaks, creating a dramatic setting.

Take your time to take photos, videos, or even enjoy a picnic. However, if hiking during the summer months, be careful of insects. By the time we arrived there were thousands of flies at the lake, making our stay a little unpleasant. However, this shouldn’t discourage you, as it might have been the wrong day. The hike itself is well worth it.

The estimated hiking time is between 4 to 6 hours each-way, depending on your pace, the weather conditions, and the number of stops. I would recommend you start early in the morning to allow enough time for the hike and to avoid the midday heat.

Can I swim in the lake?

While the idea of swimming in Drakolimni may seem tempting, and there are people doing it, you should know that swimming is not allowed. Drakolimni is a unique and fragile ecosystem that needs to be preserved.

The lake is home to various species of plants and animals (including the dragons!), some of which are endangered. Swimming could disturb the delicate balance of the ecosystem and harm the wildlife that relies on the lake for survival.

What wildlife can I expect to see around Drakolimni?

During your hike to to Drakolimni, you can expect to encounter a range of wildlife species. The region is home to bird species, including golden eagles, falcons, and alpine choughs.

In addition to birds, the region is also known for its population of wild goats. These agile and sure-footed animals are well adapted to the rocky terrain of the Tymfi mountains. Keep an eye out for them as they gracefully navigate the steep slopes and cliffs surrounding the lake.

As you explore the trails around Drakolimni, you may also come across other wildlife such as foxes, hares, and various species of rodents.

Lastly, Drakolimni also supports a variety of aquatic species. Once there, don’t forget to spot the dragons, the small and playful lizards swimming inside the lake.

Final Thoughts

The hike to Drakolimni was hands-down one of the best ones I’ve ever done. It perfectly combines an amazing trail and stunning views of an untouched environment.

A visit to Drakolimni guarantees a memorable experience, one that will certainly leave you with a sense of awe. Greece is has much more to offer than just islands and beaches, doesn’t it?