Donkey Islands and Amouliani - 4 days by kayak JULY 2026
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Code:D00342T
Located at the foot of the Athos Peninsula, Ouranoupoli is one of those rare places where the tranquility of the Aegean Sea meets the timeless serenity of Mount Athos. This will be our home for the next four days – a campsite among olive trees, sea breezes, and a sense of freedom that begins with the first light of dawn.
This is a four-day event, but if you do not have enough time, you are welcome to join us one day later.
From Ouranoupoli, we will set out towards two of the most exciting sea kayaking destinations in the region:
– Donkey Islands (Drenia Islands) – a small archipelago of crystal-clear lagoons, fine sandy spits, and underwater rock gardens that resemble a tropical watercolor.
– Ammouliani – the only inhabited island of Halkidiki, famous for its fine sandy bays and secluded beaches that can only be reached from the sea.
Over the course of four days, we will explore this marine world like true adventurers – paddling through narrow rocky passages, stopping at secluded beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and circumnavigating Ammouliani to experience its unique character, rhythm, and natural harmony.
Ammouliani and the Donkey Islands reveal their beauty gradually – through the light dancing beneath the water's surface, the peaceful atmosphere of their bays, and that special kind of silence that stays with you long after the journey has ended.
What to expect:
✅ Four full days of sea kayaking around Ammouliani and the Donkey Islands
✅ Paddling to hidden beaches and peaceful lagoons
✅ Complete circumnavigation and exploration of the Donkey Islands
✅ Complete circumnavigation of Ammouliani
✅ Breaks on secluded, wild beaches far from the crowds
✅ Technical sections, rocky coastlines, and untouched beaches
✅ Swimming and snorkeling in turquoise, crystal-clear waters
✅ Evenings in traditional taverns and sunsets by the sea
✅ Camping accommodation with all amenities
✅ Fully equipped campsite with all comforts
✅ New, high-end kayak equipment
✅ Professional guides and on-water coaching
The program is adventure-based with accommodation at a campsite or in bungalows.
Suitable for:
✅ Beginners, intermediate, and advanced paddlers.
✅ Children aged 10+ accompanied by an adult may paddle in a tandem kayak
✅ Children aged 16+ may paddle a single kayak
Important:
✅ Reservations are accepted online through our website only.
✅ You may pay a 50% deposit using the promo code "advance".
✅ All available places are displayed on our website, so there is no need to call and ask about availability.
Gather a group of 3+ participants and get -15% off
Bring a friend –10% off
The Donkey Islands – The Crystal Archipelago off Ouranoupoli
The Donkey Islands (Drenia Islands) are a small archipelago of six uninhabited islets with some of the clearest and calmest waters in the Aegean Sea. Here, turquoise takes on a character of its own – from pale, almost milky shades to deep blue tones outlining shallow lagoons and natural sandbars.
It is a place that resembles a tropical landscape: shallow natural pools, underwater rock gardens, wild beaches, and complete tranquility.
An ideal setting for snorkeling, relaxed paddling, and sea kayak exploration among the islands, each with its own unique character.
Ammouliani – The Island of Fine Sand and Secluded Bays
Ammouliani complements the Donkey Islands with its soft, sandy beauty. It is the only inhabited island in the area, renowned for its fine beaches, peaceful bays, and diverse landscapes shaped by granite rocks and shallow, warm waters.
While the Donkey Islands remain wild and untouched, Ammouliani offers a colorful combination of rocky passages, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons, making it an ideal destination for a kayak circumnavigation. Many of the island's most beautiful places can only be reached from the sea – the perfect setting for a true sea kayaking adventure.
Together, Ammouliani and the Donkey Islands form one of the most captivating sea kayaking destinations in the Northern Aegean – a unique combination of a wild archipelago and a picturesque island that gradually reveals its character with every paddle stroke.
Program:
Arrival in Ouranoupoli and Your First Taste of the Sea Adventure
We meet at 05:30 in front of Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia, and at 06:00 we depart for Ouranoupoli.
Our first stop will be in the Kresna area – time for pastries, supplies, and water before continuing to Ouranoupoli Camping.
Upon arrival, we purchase fresh fish for the evening barbecue and head to Ouranoupoli Camping & Bungalows, located directly on the beach in the peaceful bay of Ouranoupoli, with direct access to the sea and views of the Donkey Islands.
Together we unload the equipment, leave the kayaks on the beach, set up the campsite, and after a short break continue with the briefing, introductory training, and our first sunset kayak trip.
In the evening, we return to the campsite for dinner and relaxation. We will grill the fresh fish on the barbecue and end the evening in the peaceful atmosphere of the quiet beach.
This is an introductory day – a chance for everyone to get comfortable with the kayak, the movement of the sea, and their own abilities.
On our first evening, we will enjoy a relaxed dinner at the campsite, grilling the fresh fish on the barbecue. The calm sea and the star-filled sky above our camp will provide the perfect backdrop for our first day by the sea.
Paddling distance for the day: approximately 8 km
Difficulty level according to distance: 2 out of 4
The Donkey Islands: Full Circumnavigation of the Archipelago
This is the day when the group participating in the three-day adventure joins us. To take part in the full program, they should arrive at the campsite no later than 09:30, attend the safety briefing, and receive their equipment.
After breakfast, we launch the kayaks directly from the campsite beach and head towards the Donkey Islands – a small archipelago of six islets famous for their exceptionally clear waters, white sandbars, and tranquil lagoons.
First section – Megali Drenia
After approximately 15–20 minutes of paddling, we reach the largest island. We stop in its northern lagoon for our first break – a place with shallow turquoise pools and excellent snorkeling conditions.
We continue by paddling around the southern side of the island, where the sea has carved narrow passages and rocky formations.
The Smaller Islands and the “Natural Pool”
We continue towards Micri Drenia and the group of smaller rocky islets. Here the water is almost glass-like, while the seabed consists of bright rock slabs, making it one of the most beautiful snorkeling areas in the region.
Lunch stop – the beach with the tavern
We take a longer break at the beach with the small tavern – the only place in the archipelago offering food and drinks. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy lunch and relax.
Return to Ouranoupoli
After lunch, we paddle back towards the campsite along the coastline. This section is calm, with crystal-clear waters and wide underwater rock shelves.
We arrive back at the campsite in the late afternoon, filled with a sense of tranquility, freedom, and admiration for the unique beauty of this small archipelago.
The second evening is yours to choose: you may stay at the campsite or join the group for dinner at a traditional tavern, depending on your mood. After a full day of paddling and beach stops, the evening is dedicated to rest, conversations, sharing experiences, and creating lasting memories.
Paddling distance for the day: 14 km
Difficulty level according to distance: 2 out of 4
Circumnavigating Ammouliani Island
From the campsite beach, we head south and begin our circumnavigation of Ammouliani Island. After just a few minutes of paddling, we reach our first stop – a quiet, wild sandy beach located to the right of the Donkey Islands. It is the perfect place for a short break, to stretch, and take the first photos of the day.
We continue along Ammouliani’s characteristic granite coastline, entering the calmer side of the island until we reach Alykes Beach – one of its most iconic sandy beaches. Here we will enjoy lunch at the campsite tavern, overlooking the azure waters and the small islands beyond.
In the afternoon, we continue our circumnavigation, entering the eastern side of the island. Our next stop is a picturesque sandy beach opposite the two small islets of Rema and Rouaki – a peaceful spot sheltered from the waves, perfect for swimming and snorkeling above the shallow underwater rock shelves.
After this break, we set off again and soon arrive at the harbor of Ammouliani. Here we will have time for a short walk, a coffee, or an ice cream before setting off on the final section of the route.
From the harbor, we paddle directly back to the campsite, completing the full circumnavigation of the island with the feeling of having experienced a complete sea journey – from Ammouliani’s wild shores to its charming inhabited areas.
After the day's demanding circumnavigation, we invite everyone to join us for an organized dinner at a traditional tavern – the perfect ending to our sea adventure. It is a moment to share stories, experiences, and new friendships, surrounded by the sound of the waves and the aroma of freshly prepared seafood.
Paddling distance for the day: 19 km
Difficulty level according to distance: 3 out of 4
We gather by the kayaks at 09:30. This is our final day and is dedicated to a short, focused paddling session and practical training in the bay in front of the campsite. We stay close to the shoreline while continuing to develop the most important sea kayaking skills.
Today's training includes
Kayak fundamentals and control
✅ proper entry and exit from a kayak at the shore and in shallow water;
✅ efficient forward and backward paddling with correct body position;
✅ stopping techniques and controlled speed reduction;
✅ course correction and changing direction.
Maneuvering and stability
✅ sideways paddling (draw stroke);
✅ maintaining stability using low brace and high brace techniques;
✅ basic techniques for preventing capsizing.
Rescue techniques
✅ self-rescue – re-entering the kayak after capsizing;
✅ assisted rescue – helping another kayaker.
The training is conducted mainly in single sea kayaks, allowing each technique to be practiced realistically, with proper dynamics and maximum safety.
Those who prefer not to participate in the practical exercises may observe from a boat or remain on the beach.
Packing up and departure
At 11:30 we return to the campsite. Together we clean the equipment, organize the gear, wash the kayaks, and load them onto the trailers.
Around 15:30 we depart from Ouranoupoli. We will make a short stop in Ierissos for gyros before continuing our journey back to Bulgaria.
Expected arrival in front of Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia – around 23:00.
Paddling distance for the day: short training sessions in the bay.
How to get to Ouranoupoli Camping & Bungalows?
You can travel completely free of charge with us in the vehicles used for transporting the kayak equipment, subject to the availability of the 16 passenger seats, or you may travel with your own vehicle.
Participants who have chosen our exciting three-day adventure arrive with their own transport and must be at the campsite no later than 09:30. Please be on time—the group departs promptly, and arriving late may result in missing the entire first day of the program.
Luggage – what to bring
✅ Backpack or duffel bag with personal belongings (large, bulky suitcases are not permitted)
✅ Tent (if you are staying at the campsite)
✅ Food and drinks for your stay
✅ There is no need to bring tables, chairs, or additional camping equipment—we provide everything you need.
Departure and return
Departure: Sofia – the parking area in front of the main entrance of Vasil Levski National Stadium
Return: to the same location
⚠️ We do not offer pick-up or drop-off at personal addresses.
Accommodation – Ouranoupoli Camping & Bungalows
Accommodation fee: €7.50 per person per night
Tent fee: €7.50 per night
The campsite also offers bungalow-style rooms, which you may book directly. Prices are available here: https://www.camping-ouranoupoli.gr/book-your-dreamed-holidays
Accommodation fees are paid directly to the campsite management.
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Level of difficulty:2 from 4
Registration Form for the Dopamine Team
IMPORTANT: When the booking is for more than one participant, the form must be completed individually by each participant.
Thank you for soon becoming part of our community.
You are about to join a kayak adventure in a natural environment, where good preparation, clear communication, and advance information are an important part of safe, calm, and fulfilling participation. Please take approximately 5 minutes to complete this form.
The information we collect will help us plan your participation in the most appropriate way, taking into account your experience, physical condition, health considerations, dietary restrictions, emergency contact details, and other circumstances that may affect your comfort, safety, and overall well-being during the event.
Personal Data Protection
Dopamine Team processes personal data in accordance with the applicable legislation in the Republic of Bulgaria, including Regulation (EU) 2016/679, known as GDPR, and the Personal Data Protection Act.
If the participant is under 18 years of age, the form must be completed and confirmed by a parent, guardian, or legal representative.
Please read and confirm that you are familiar with our GDPR Policy, which you can view HERE.


