Mount Olympus National Park
The highest Greek mountain and residence of the twelve Ancient Greek gods, forms the Olympus National Park, which is located 78 km from Thessaloniki. It is an area with exceptional ecological characteristics and incomparable natural beauty declared by UNESCO as “Biosphere Reserve”. The sheer rocky peaks, the deep gorges, the alpine fields, and the thick forests are home of some rare and native species of flora and fauna. Deciduous trees and bushes dominate the first 500 meters, then giving place to stands of black pine and fir. Higher on the mountain are cold-tested conifer forests, including the rare Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii).
Above the tree line, at the alpine zone, forests give way to low vegetation and in season, wide expanses of wildflowers. Thirty- two species of mammals have been recorded on Mount Olympus like the chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), deer (Capreolus capreolus), wolf (Canis lupus) wild pig (Sus scrofa), fox (Vulpes vulpes), ferret (Martes foina), squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), jackal (Canis aureus), wild cat (Felis sylvestris), etc. Furthermore, 108 species of bird have been recorded in the area, some of the threatened such as the chamois, golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and the rare woodpecker. Additionally the streams and the small lakes are home to a significant number of amphibians and reptiles and a vast number of butterflies for which Olympus is famous. In the treeless alpine zone there are 150 kinds of plants with half being found only in the Balkan Peninsula and 23 being native.
Apart from wildlife watching, hiking and climbing are very popular on the mountain and there are many routes for the visitor to choose from. There are nine refuges for overnight stays; each one sleeps dozens of people and many have kitchens or even restaurants. It is worth visiting the village of Dion, a Macedonian holy ancient city where King Archelaus held nine days of games to honour Zeus, with its remarkable archaeological site and museum.
Exploring Cultural & Natural Treasure
Take part in an exciting journey exploring Greece's rich wildlife and impressive culture. You will be based in a single good quality hotel, and will take daily field trips to National Parks and cultural sites. This expedition takes places within the five National Parks of Epirus Region, renowned for landscapes of exceptonal beauty and marvellous variety of fauna and flora. The region’s fascinating ancient, historical and religious heritage will not be forgotten...Read more...
Summer Adventures
An excellent opportunity for those wishing to spend a week observing marine wildlife, while meeting the daily challenges of living on a sailing vessel. You have the opportunity to become one of the crew and learn the traditional skills and tasks of a sailor including keeping watches, setting sails, steering, navigation and more. You will participate in wildlife surveys around the waters of the Ionian Islands, focusing on Short-beaked Common Dolphin...Read more...
Wildlife Expeditions
Explore the wildlife of some of the most pristine National Parks of Northern Greece, outstanding areas that are excellent destinations for bird, wildflower, butterfly and photography enthusiasts or for those who simply wish to unwind in the tranquillity of nature. This trip is for those who want to discover few of the region's best wildlife hotspots observing rare and endangered species, feel the insights of Thessaloniki long history and cosmopolitan life, and visit distinctive archaeological... Read more...
Protected Areas
Experience a truly rewarding Protected Area Management programme in the pristine National Parks of the Epirus Region. Working closely with Park’s staff and inspiring environmentalists, volunteers undertake various field work and office duties to assist in the implementation of the Parks’ day-to-day Management and conservation efforts. .. Read more...
Wildlife Surveys
Participate in the monitoring and research of National Parks' abudant wildlife.In this project volunteers will be involved with the monitoring and research of the Parks’ rich wildlife. You will be working together with the Parks’ personell and other highly experienced scientists and you will learn a range of skills from those focused on research... Read more...
Autumn Eco-Navigation
An excellent opportunity for those wishing to engage in marine conservation projects and marine wildlife surveys while living and working on a sailing vessel. As a volunteer you will become one of the crew and learn the traditional skills and tasks of a sailor including keeping watches, setting sails, steering, navigation, galley cooking duties, and vessel upkeep. You will participate in wildlife surveys ... Read more...
Nature Guides/Ecotourism
This is a great opportunity for those wishing to gain intense experience, knowledge and skills as Nature Guides and amateur nature & wildlife photographers. This intern programme offers the best in theoretical teaching and hands-on information and experience for participants who are keen to establish themselves as a professional Nature Guide or for the adventurous type wanting to gain ... Read more...