The dramatic caldera, the steep cliffs, the volcanic beaches, and even the local agriculture all trace their origins back to a series of eruptions that reshaped the landscape over thousands of years. To understand Santorini is to understand its volcano.
How the Volcano Shaped Santorini
Around the 17th century BC, a massive volcanic eruption caused the central part of the island to collapse, forming the caldera that now defines Santorini’s geography. This event dramatically altered the island’s shape, leaving behind towering cliffs and creating the deep basin filled by the Aegean Sea.
The eruption also buried settlements under volcanic ash, preserving them for millennia. This connection between geology and history is explored further in Santorini’s Archaeological Treasures, particularly through the remains uncovered at Akrotiri Archaeological Site.
The Volcanic Islets: Nea Kameni & Palea Kameni
At the centre of the caldera lie the volcanic islets of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. These islands are the most recent additions to Santorini’s landscape, formed by eruptions between the 16th and 20th centuries.
Nea Kameni is the primary site visitors explore today. Walking across its dark lava fields offers a stark contrast to the whitewashed villages above. Steam vents and sulphur deposits serve as reminders that the volcano remains active, though closely monitored.
Palea Kameni, smaller and older, is known for its warm mineral waters. Swimming here offers a tangible connection to the island’s geothermal activity.
These experiences are often part of guided excursions described in Caldera Day Cruises.
Visiting the Volcano
Reaching the volcano requires travel by boat, usually departing from ports such as Athinios or small harbours around the island. Visits typically include time to walk across Nea Kameni’s volcanic terrain, followed by swimming near the hot springs.
While the walk is not technically difficult, the terrain is uneven and exposed. Sturdy footwear, sun protection, and water are essential. Visitors interested in walking routes and outdoor activity may also enjoy Hiking the Caldera, which explores the island’s dramatic landscape from above.
The Volcano and Santorini’s Agriculture
The volcanic soil that covers Santorini is one of the island’s greatest assets. Rich in minerals and porous in structure, it retains moisture despite minimal rainfall. This has allowed distinctive crops to thrive, including fava split peas, tomatoes, capers, and grapes grown in low basket-shaped vines.
This relationship between volcano and food is explored in Santorini’s Fava and A Food Lover’s Guide to Santorini, which highlight how geology influences flavour and tradition.
The Volcano from the Sea
Viewing the volcano from the water provides a powerful sense of scale. Sailing through the caldera allows visitors to appreciate how villages cling to the cliffs above and how sharply the land drops into the sea.
This perspective is a central feature of Caldera Day Cruises, which combine volcanic exploration with scenic sailing and sunset experiences.
A Landscape That Inspires Reflection
Standing on volcanic ground, surrounded by sea and sky, many visitors describe a sense of stillness and perspective. The volcano is not dramatic in the conventional sense—there is no lava flow or spectacle—but its quiet presence is deeply felt.
This atmosphere contributes to the island’s unique emotional pull, which is also reflected in the views described in The Best Sunset Spots in Santorini.
Ending the Day Gently
After visiting the volcano, most travelers prefer to slow down. A quiet evening, a simple meal, and time to absorb the experience often feel more appropriate than busy schedules.
Ideas for relaxed, view-focused dining can be found on our Dining Page, while returning to a calm base enhances the sense of balance—explore our Residences & Suites for accommodations designed with this rhythm in mind.
To understand distances and access points for volcanic excursions, visit our Location Page.
The Volcano as Santorini’s Constant
The volcano is not just part of Santorini’s past—it remains a constant presence, shaping the land, the food, and the way people experience the island. Quiet, powerful, and enduring, it defines Santorini more than any single view or village ever could.