Santorini's Sleeping Volcano

There’s a small, uninhabited, volcanic Greek island within Santorini’s caldera that is pretty new to the Mediterranean landforms. It’s called Nea Kameni which is nicknamed ‘New Burnt’ and neighbors its sibling, Palea Kameni ‘Old Burnt’. From a visitor’s perspective, it’s part of the experience while exploring Santorini. But from a scientific perspective, it makes it possible to study 430 years of rock formation and the active volcanic center.

Nea Kameni was born and gradually formed through volcanic events. The island group- Thira, Thirassia and Aspronisi, were the only islands left after a major volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago. As time went by, the magma that remained from the volcanic eruption of 163 BC welled up the center of the caldera during the eruption. This event led to the first appearance of the soon to be Palea and Nea Kameni islets in 197 BC, which was documented by the Greek geographer Strabo. Eight eruptions have been reported, starting in 46 AD and ending in 1950. The volcano is a historical site to witness its unique nature and volcanic landform. It also allows you to brag about hiking up an active volcano.

The best way to explore Palea and Nea Kameni islets is through a boat tour. There are daily cruises that leaves from Fira’s port and takes you to the volcano and hot springs. Tickets for the cruise averages between 22 to 44 euros. It depends which kind of tour company and package you select. Tickets can also be purchased at the port or through a travel agency.

Ocean view before approaching Nea Kameni.

Unique rock formations from the volcanic island.

Leah, is a multilingual tour guide who’s extremely knowledgeable in geological facts and the history of the islands formation. She informed the group with brief yet interesting facts about Nea Kameni and the history behind the volcanic formation. She guided the tour to the highest peak (127 meters above sea level), which can can take about 20-25 minutes by foot. She says "the top of peak is amazing and deserves a visit." Once you reach the top, there's an incredible view of Santorini's natural beauty.

Leah is leading the hike to the highest peak.

The first crater you approach is called 'little burnt'- it began all the formation of this island.

Nea Kameni is not the active volcano you expect to see if you imagine scorching hot lava flowing. The volcano is dormant today but proof of its active existence stems from

Hot springs created from the magma under the island
Hot gases from the central craters on the peak of Nea Kameni

(Left) Hot Springs located in Palea Kameni. The yellow waters contain a large amount of sulfur. (Right) Hot gases emitted from the fumaroles.

Leah added how there's no long term predictions as to when the next eruption will take place. She said, "scientists monitor the island everyday all throughout the year to make sure it's safe to visit." As of now, only short term predictions can be made in a period of a few months to a year prior to eruptions.