Almonds, olives and volcanoes

Tour guide

The tour is normally guided either by German volcanologist Dr. Tom Pfeiffer or photographer and amateur geologist Tobias Schorr. Both have been traveling on the Greek volcanic areas (Methana, Milos, Santorini, Nisyros) for more than 20 years and know the islands better than even most local people do.
Tom completed his PhD studies on the topic of the great Minoan eruption of Santorini. He made the important discovery of a 3600-year-old olive tree buried alive in the pumice deposit that now can be seen in the small geological museum in Perissa.
This allowed the most precise dating of one of the most significant natural event in the Bronze age (to 1613+-13 years BC) so far.
His colleague Tobias, with whom Tom alternates on this tour, is a true specialist for Greece in general, boasting in-depth knowledge about its culture, history, people, flora, fauna and of course geology. He is known for his good eye and discoveries of rare minerals, plants, animals, or hidden archeological artifacts during the various excursions.

Physical requirements

Some walking on smaller steep passages. You will need to have a secure step and a good feeling for balance. Walking distances of up to around 5-10 km, climbing of up to 600 m, walking times up to 4-8 hrs during a full day. For details, see section in main text. You should be able to walk over 4-8 hours (with many stops:-). It is not strolling, nor trekking or mountain climbing, but walking on paths and trails, so a good physical condition is needed.