Kakoperato Canyon
- Distance Samos Town:18 km
- Location: Kosmadei, Northwest Samos
- Parking: yes, free at Monastery
- Accessibility: road, path
- Entrance fee: no
- Bring water, snacks, torch, sunscreen
The hike at the Kakoperato gorge, the largest canyon on Samos, on the north-west slopes of Mount Kerkis is one you will not likely forget.
This spectacular 6.5 km trail begins at the monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, winds through shaded pine forests and along a steep gorge, to end at a hidden cave chapel. You’re in for jaw-dropping views and a spiritual experience—all on one trek!
Monastery Zoodochos Pigi
You can drive up to the monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, located beside the Kakoperato gorge and leave your car there.
Zoodochos Pigi is a charming 18th-century monastery that was founded in 1756, among pine and plane trees near Kosmadei. It has a small church, cells, and a cool spring (Zoodochos Pigi means “life-giving source”) at its entrance.
This sweet, quiet spot is your gateway to the trail. Take a moment to look around until you’re ready to hit the path.
The Kakoperato Canyon
The start of your Kakoperato Canyon hike takes you through a beautiful shaded pine forest. You hike roughly 400–500 m above sea level. Once you make it through the forest, you will see the striking canyon with high vertical rock formations which leads to Megalo Seitani beach.
Kakoperato means “difficult pass” and earns its name from the narrow cliff-edge footpath along the gorge. The hike itself is not too difficult but certainly breathtaking!
You’ll walk along the path directly on the rock face. Safety railings guard the cliff‑side sections – so don’t worry, it’s easy to enjoy the thrill without the fear! (Although you probably shouldn’t be afraid of heights!)
From the Monastery it will take about 30 minutes to arrive at the end of the path. There you will find a 35 m deep karst cave that was once home to hermits.
Inside the cave is a tiny chapel, built early 20th-century style, dedicated to the Virgin Mary (known locally as Kakoperatianis or Pera Panagia).
TIP: Bring a torch if you want to see deeper inside the cave and be careful, it can be slippery!
Why this hike rocks!
- Wild scenery: Pine forests + towering canyon walls + sea views = epic.
- Spiritual touch: Monastery visit + cave chapel = cultural feels.
- Free & easy: No ticket, no rough driving, only basic gear needed.
- Instagram-worthy: Railing of steel against rock, cave light through chapel—photogenic!
- Adventure meets chill: Challenging enough for fun, smooth enough for most hikers.
Preperations
- Avoid hiking alone.
- Bring a small backpack for your gear
- Bring water, some food and some first aid items.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat.
- Bring a fully charged cellular phone.
- Bring a torch and a good hiking map
- Avoid hiking alone.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots.
- Wear long, comfortable trousers if you want to protect your legs.
Code of Conduct for hikers
- Don't litter and pick up any litter you'll find.
- Stay on marked trails at all times.
- Don't do damage to the fauna or make unnecessary noise.
- Respect the wildlife and enjoy nature responsibly.
- No smoking in the forest.
- It is strictly forbidden to light fires anywhere in the forest. Report any fire or smoke in the forest immediately to the Samos Fire Brigade +30 22730 22199.
