The Pindos Horseshoe Trail is one of the most iconic multi-day hiking experiences in Greece, set in the heart of the stunning Zagori region.
On this fully guided version, you’ll experience the trail in the most seamless and stress-free way, with an experienced Trekking Hellas guide leading the journey from start to finish.
Follow a carefully designed route that connects traditional stone villages, alpine landscapes, and the breathtaking Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Each day unfolds with the support of your guide, who ensures smooth navigation, optimal pacing, and a deeper connection to the landscape through local knowledge and storytelling.
Where needed, transfers are arranged to optimise the flow of the itinerary, ensuring a comfortable and well-balanced experience throughout the trip. Luggage transfers are included, allowing you to hike with ease while your belongings are taken care of.
Over the course of 8 days, you’ll enjoy a journey that combines nature, culture, and comfort, with every detail organised for you.
All you need to do is follow the guide and enjoy the experience.
This program is also available as a Self Guided and Partially Guided experience.
Arrival at Ioannina Airport, followed by transfer to the village of Vitsa in Zagori.
Settle into your guesthouse and take some time to relax or explore the village’s stone paths and scenic surroundings.
Depending on arrival time, you may enjoy a short introductory walk with your guide and get a first feel of the region.
Driving Duration: 40 minutes
Overnight: Vitsa
Your hiking journey begins as you meet your guide and set off directly from the village.
Descending via the historic Vitsa Steps, you enter the Vikos Gorge area and cross traditional stone bridges that once connected the villages of Zagori. The trail gradually ascends towards Koukouli, before continuing to Kipi, known for its remarkable collection of arched bridges.
Moving through forested paths and quiet landscapes, you pass the preserved village of Dilofo and continue towards Monodendri, where you arrive on foot at your accommodation.
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
Ascent: 645m /2116 ft | Descent: 645m /2116 ft
Overnight: Monodendri
Today you explore one of the most impressive natural landmarks in Greece.
Following your guide, you descend into the Vikos Gorge and hike along the riverbed through the heart of the National Park. Surrounded by towering cliffs and untouched nature, the scale and beauty of the landscape unfold step by step.
Along the way, your guide shares insights into the geology, wildlife, and history of the region, enriching the experience. A final ascent leads you to Vikos village, where you complete the day’s hike.
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
Ascent: 791m /2595 ft | Descent: 1091m/3579 ft
Overnight: Vikos village
Continuing your journey on foot, you follow your guide towards Mikro Papingo.
The route descends to the refreshing Voidomatis springs before gradually ascending along the north-west side of the gorge. As you gain elevation, the views open up across the surrounding peaks and valleys. Passing through forested sections and beneath the impressive rock formations of Astraka, you arrive at the picturesque village of Mikro Papingo.
The afternoon is free to relax or enjoy a swim at the natural pools of Rogovo.
Hiking Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 5.7 km / 3.5 miles
Ascent: 811 m /2660 ft | Descent: 599 m/1965 ft
Overnight: Mikro Papingo
Today’s route takes you into the high alpine zone of Mount Tymfi.
Starting from Mikro Papingo, you hike with your guide along a well-defined mountain trail towards the Astraka Refuge. The landscape gradually changes from forest to open alpine terrain, offering wide views and a sense of remoteness. On the way up, we will meet a lot of water springs so there is no need to carry a lot of water. After a short stop at the refuge, you continue towards the Dragon Lake (Drakolimni), located at 2050m altitude. The scenery is striking, with panoramic views across the Pindos mountain range.
You return to the refuge, where you spend the night.
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
Ascent: 1368 m /4488 ft | Descent: 425 m/1394 ft
Overnight: Mountain refuge
Today you continue your journey across the impressive Tymfi mountain range, following your guide along a long but rewarding route.
Departing from the refuge, you descend into wide alpine meadows beneath the striking cliffs of Astraka. The trail leads through remote highland terrain and past traditional shepherd landscapes, including the natural water reservoir of Loutsa Robozi. As you progress, the scenery gradually shifts from alpine to more forested surroundings, offering a rich variety of landscapes throughout the day. The route continues towards the wider area of Tsepelovo, where you complete your hike and settle into your accommodation.
Hiking Duration: 7 hours
Distance: 12.5 km / 7.7 miles
Ascent: 383 m /1256 ft | Descent: 1222 m/4009 ft
Overnight: Tsepelovo
Your final hiking day combines history, traditional architecture, and panoramic views.
Starting from Tsepelovo, you follow cobblestone paths towards Vradeto, the highest village in Zagori. Along the way, you reach Beloi viewpoint, a natural balcony offering one of the most impressive views over the Vikos Gorge. Continuing the journey, you descend via the historic Vradeto Steps to Kapesovo village and follow the trail towards Kipi, where your hiking experience comes to an end.
Hiking Duration: 8 hours
Distance: 14.7 km / 9.13 miles
Ascent: 816 m /2677 ft | Descent: 744 m/2440 ft
Overnight: Kipi
After breakfast, transfer back to Ioannina.
End of your fully guided journey through Zagori, filled with landscapes, villages, and unforgettable hiking moments.
Ideal for travellers who want a stress-free, fully supported experience.
Trekking Hellas offers and array of hikes and active experiences all over Greece. Our team also creates tailor made tours and activities, so feel free to contact us if your preferences and needs are not met by our programs. We will help you design the prefect vacation for you!
This fully guided program is designed to offer maximum comfort and support.
Participants follow the guide throughout the hiking days, while logistics, pacing, and coordination are fully managed by the Trekking Hellas team.
Please try to travel as light as possible; remember that you must carry everything you bring on all the days’ walk.
Price from €1193
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