Kayak Tour Review: Mikros Gialos, Agios Ioannis, and Papanikolis Cave

If you’re thinking about an adventure that mixes exploring eye-popping coastline scenery with a bit of a physical challenge, well, a kayak tour around Lefkada might just be it. More specifically, let’s chat about the Mikros Gialos, Agios Ioannis, and Papanikolis Cave kayak tour. It sounds, that, very cool, but what’s it really like?

Setting off from Mikros Gialos

So, Mikros Gialos is basically the postcard spot for the beginning of this adventure. This, it seems, is this cute little bay with water so turquoise it looks almost unreal. I mean, seriously, the beach is usually sheltered, which makes getting into your kayak a total breeze. Getting started on smooth water is usually just a great confidence booster, especially if you’re, you know, a bit like your’s truly when it comes to kayaking – slightly inexperienced!

Basically, you push off from the shore, and suddenly you are in a totally different mood as you’re gliding over the water, very much right away feeling that vacation bliss kick in. Right from the get-go, the views, naturally, are quite astonishing, with the rolling hills dropping down to meet this sea. This, naturally, really gets you excited for what’s coming next. Anyway, just a tip, bring a waterproof camera; you’ll totally want to grab some shots of this view.

Paddling towards Agios Ioannis

The paddle towards Agios Ioannis, anyway, is generally lovely. As you move along the coastline, you will likely see tiny, remote beaches and dramatic rock structures that, I mean, look straight out of a movie. Also, depending on the tour company, sometimes, the guide stops at different points to tell you all sorts of stuff about the area’s history or a bit of interesting local folklore. More or less, you kind of get a history lesson while you are getting a workout, it could be said. Seems really efficient.

That being said, just so you know, this stretch, usually, can get a bit tiring if there’s a bit of a breeze. Also, even with moderate fitness, more or less, your arms can start to feel the burn a bit, though I thought it would be a lot worse. Also, do not forget the sunscreen, there may be a reflection from the water, or so I’ve read.

Exploring the Enigmatic Papanikolis Cave

Reaching the Papanikolis Cave is really like, the highlight of the tour. First off, the cave’s name comes from a submarine used in the Second World War; the submarine supposedly hid in this exact cave. Seriously, could be a neat story to imagine while you approach this big rock opening.

The water inside is extremely crystal clear, also, the sheer size of the cave is actually impressive. Most of the tours, it seems, let you paddle inside for a while, offering a very unique perspective as you float under the cavernous ceiling. What makes it also fascinating is usually the colors of the water against the rock, which means that it seems like the perfect setting for photos.

Inside, too, you might get lucky and, sometimes, see some marine life. So, I heard of someone who has spotted a monk seal around here, though, unfortunately, I only spotted different, that, you know, average little fish. That is pretty nice too.

What to anticipate and things to prepare

A few tips for anyone considering this kayak tour would be to, you know, bring water. More or less, staying hydrated is key, especially if you’re doing this during the summer months. The sun tends to be strong, which, in fact, leads to a nice burn if you don’t take precautions.

Speaking of sunshine, basically, bring more sunscreen. Also, seriously, reapply, too, after a few hours. Even when the weather doesn’t appear that bright. Polarized sunglasses, basically, are your best friend out there too, more or less.

In the way of clothes, very, lightweight and breathable fabrics usually are the most comfy. I am almost, so glad I didn’t take a cotton T-shirt, which I heard some regret taking as it is likely to get soaked and dries slowly. More or less, it seems like something you learn pretty quickly.

Water shoes could be beneficial if you plan on hopping off the kayak for a swim or to check the beaches. Basically, nobody enjoys walking on pebbles barefoot. Think of it as you would consider to avoid a nasty stubbed toe.

Last but not least, check the weather forecast prior to your tour. So, tour operators typically do not operate if the conditions are poor or hazardous, although being prepared is up to you, more or less.

Concluding thoughts about the Mikros Gialos, Agios Ioannis, and Papanikolis Cave Tour

So, doing a kayak tour from Mikros Gialos to Agios Ioannis and Papanikolis Cave honestly could be something. Basically, whether you’re really into watersports or just want to view this coastline, more or less, it’s genuinely an adventure. From the crystal clear waters and amazing coastal views to the thrilling exploration of this Papanikolis Cave, it would be a really trip for the memory books.