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 self-guided version, you’ll explore the trail at your own pace, following 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 offers a different perspective: walk through the picturesque villages of Papingo and Mikro Papingo, hike along mountain paths with panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Pindos National Park.
This experience is designed for independent travellers who want the freedom to explore, without the hassle of planning. We take care of accommodation in charming guesthouses, luggage transfers between stops, and provide you with detailed route notes and navigation tools.
A multi-day hiking route designed to showcase the very best of Zagori, combining scenic trails, cultural landmarks, and authentic village life. Daily hikes vary in distance and elevation, offering a balanced experience of challenge and enjoyment, with time to relax and explore each destination.
All you need to do is follow the trail and enjoy the journey!
This program is also available as a Partially Guided and Fully Guided experience.
Arrival at Ioannina Airport, where your transfer will take you to the beautiful village of Vitsa in Zagori.
Settle into your traditional guesthouse and take some time to relax or explore the village’s stone paths and scenic views.
This is the perfect introduction to the region’s unique atmosphere and architecture. You will also receive all necessary information and materials for your self-guided journey.
Driving Duration: 40 minutes
Overnight: Vitsa
Your hiking adventure begins.
Starting from Vitsa, you descend via the famous Vitsa Steps into the Vikos Gorge area. Crossing one of the iconic stone bridges, you gradually ascend towards the village of Koukouli.
Take a break at the village square before continuing towards Kipi, where you’ll encounter some of Zagori’s most impressive stone bridges, true masterpieces of traditional architecture.
The trail then leads through dense forest to Dilofo, a beautifully preserved village, before continuing towards Monodendri for the night.
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
Ascent: 645m /2116 ft | Descent: 645m /2116 ft
Overnight: Monodendri
Today’s highlight is the crossing of the spectacular Vikos Gorge. You begin with a descent into the canyon, reaching the riverbed and following the trail alongside the stream through the heart of the National Park.
The route offers a unique sense of scale and isolation, surrounded by towering cliffs and untouched nature. Wildlife such as birds of prey, wild boars, and even bears inhabit the area. A final ascent leads you to Vikos village, where you can rest and enjoy breathtaking views over the gorge.
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
Ascent: 791m /2595 ft | Descent: 1091m/3579 ft
Overnight: Vikos village
Today’s route takes you towards one of Zagori’s most iconic villages.
Starting from Vikos, you descend towards the Voidomatis springs, a refreshing natural stop. From there, the trail ascends along the north-west side of the Vikos Gorge, offering increasingly impressive views as you gain elevation. You pass through forested sections and hike beneath the striking rock formations of Astraka before reaching Mikro Papingo.
In the afternoon, you can relax or enjoy a swim in the natural pools of Rogovo, just outside the village.
Hiking Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 5.7 km / 3.5 miles
Ascent: 811 m /2660 ft | Descent: 599 m/1965 ft
Overnight: Mikro Papingo
A more alpine day awaits.
Departing from Mikro Papingo, you hike towards the highlands of Mount Tymfi, following a well-defined trail through changing landscapes. Along the way, natural springs provide fresh water, allowing you to hike comfortably.
You reach the Astraka Mountain Refuge, where you can take a short break before continuing towards the impressive Dragon Lake (Drakolimni), located at 2050m altitude. The scenery here is truly spectacular, with panoramic views across the Pindos mountain range.
Return to the refuge for 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 is a longer but rewarding day as you cross the Tymfi mountain range.
From the refuge, you descend into wide alpine meadows beneath the impressive cliffs of Astraka. The trail continues towards Loutsa Robozi, a natural water reservoir traditionally used by shepherds. You then follow the route towards Megas Lakos canyon before continuing across varied terrain towards the village of Tsepelovo, your final destination for the day.
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, views, and traditional paths.
Starting from Tsepelovo, you hike towards Vradeto, the highest village in Zagori, following old cobblestone paths (kalderimia). You’ll visit Beloi viewpoint, a natural balcony offering one of the most stunning panoramic views over Vikos Gorge. From Vradeto, you descend via the famous Vradeto Steps to Kapesovo village and continue towards Kipi, where your hiking journey 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 self-guided adventure in Zagori full of landscapes, villages, and unforgettable hiking moments.
The itinerary can be adjusted based on your pace, preferences, and weather conditions.
Flexible start dates available throughout the season.
Guaranteed Fixed Departures Prices
SPECIAL OFFER -100€pp
2026
2027
Looking for different dates?
You can book instantly for our fixed departures, or let us know your preferred dates and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Submit your request here and we’ll get back to you.
Prefer a trip designed just for you?
From private departures to fully customised itineraries, our team can create a hiking experience that fits you perfectly.
Reach out here and start planning your tailor-made adventure.
For the self-guided tours, detailed and up-to-date maps and descriptions of the hiking routes are provided based on the latest available information. The aim is to make self-guided adventures safe and enjoyable; however, participants undertake the hikes at their own risk and are responsible for their own safety, navigation, and decision-making during the trip. They are also responsible for assessing their fitness, carrying appropriate equipment, and following local laws and safety guidelines. The company’s liability is limited to the offered services described in the provided section.
Please try to travel as light as possible; remember that you must carry everything you bring on all the days’ walk.
Price from €728
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