Zakynthos: Turtle Island, Cameo and Keri Caves + Transport

Exploring Zakynthos offers some of Greece’s most iconic sights, and this tour packs in a full day of natural beauty, from the chance to see endangered Caretta Caretta turtles to exploring dramatic Keri Caves. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll hop aboard a glass-bottom boat, enjoy scenic scenery, and make memorable stops at Turtle Island and Cameo Island.

What really stands out about this experience is the combination of wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes, all wrapped into a well-organized day trip. Our favorite bit? The turtle spotting—it’s not every day you get to see such majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour covers some distance, and the boat trips involve moving through open water, which might be less comfortable for those prone to seasickness. Still, with the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and relax on pristine beaches, this tour offers great value for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife, scenic views, and cultural highlights in a manageable, one-day format. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll find this trip a fantastic way to see some of Zakynthos’ most memorable sights.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to see the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles in their natural environment.
• Scenic Stops: Visit Turtle Island and the stunning Keri Caves with impressive rock formations and caves.
• Beautiful Beaches: Time for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, especially at Turtle Island and near the caves.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with transport arranged for the smoothest experience.
• Expert Guidance: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience and help you spot wildlife and learn about the scenery.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your planning.

A Closer Look at the Tour

This tour begins with a hotel pickup, which many travelers appreciate as it saves the hassle of finding a meeting point early in the day. The pickup service is available at most resorts, though it’s important to note that Vasilikos, Keri, and St Nicholas Port are excluded due to distance from the main office. Once aboard the mini bus or van, the journey to Agios Sostis port is straightforward, giving you a relaxed start to your adventure.

The Journey to Cameo Island and Turtle Spotting

As you arrive at the port of Agios Sostis, you’ll immediately feel the charm of Zakynthos’ south coast. The first highlight is the pass over Cameo Island, connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. This tiny island resembles a fairy tale setting, with a quaint bridge that makes for picturesque photos. Many travelers, including reviewers, mention how passing this bridge sparks excitement and offers a perfect photo opportunity.

Next, it’s time to board the small glass-bottom boat. The shape of the vessel makes it more intimate, often with just a handful of fellow travelers, which enhances the feeling of a personal adventure. The glass-bottom feature allows you to peek into the water below, adding an extra layer of fun as you search for Caretta Caretta turtles. Several reviewers, like Kate, noted how the turtle sightings added a special touch, describing the experience as “amazing” and “incredible.”

Our guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Some have specific names, like “Maria,” who’s mentioned for her enthusiastic explanations and spotting skills, making sure everyone gets a good view of the turtles. Viewing these gentle creatures in their natural habitat, often popping up near the boat, is a highlight that makes the entire trip worthwhile.

Turtle Island – The Turtle Shaped Paradise

The trip then takes you to Marathonisi, dubbed “Turtle Island” because of its shape. The lush greenery and secluded beaches provide a peaceful spot to relax. Reviewers consistently mention how much they loved the swimming and snorkeling opportunities here, with many spending about an hour exploring the pristine waters. The waters are clear and inviting, perfect for a quick cool-down after the boat ride.

Many guests, including Elena, note how seeing the turtles in the wild was a highlight—they’re not just part of a tour but real wild animals that you get to view in their environment. The protected beach creates a safe haven for loggerhead sea turtles, so your visit contributes to awareness and conservation efforts.

The Keri Caves – A Natural Masterpiece

Next, you arrive at the Keri Caves, which are carved by nature over centuries. The limestone formations, white sand beaches, and towering cliffs create a landscape that feels almost surreal. From the boat, you’ll get great views of rock arches, cliffs, and lush hills.

The tour includes a 20-minute swim near the entrance of one of these caves—an opportunity to enjoy the cool waters and take in the unique landscape up close. Rae mentions how the scenery during this part of the trip was “absolutely stunning,” with the dramatic cliffs providing a striking contrast to the bright blue sea.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour lasts approximately one day, with a focus on comfort and convenience. The air-conditioned minibus waiting at port for the return trip ensures you’re cooled down after a busy morning. The entire experience is designed for ease, with hotel pickup included, making it accessible for most travelers.

The boat ride itself is described as comfortable, although some reviews hint that open water can be a little choppy, so bringing sunscreen, sunhat, and sunglasses is advisable. The tour doesn’t include pickups from Vasilikos, Keri, or St Nicholas Port, but arrangements can be made for transfers out of Tsilivi at an additional cost.

Pricing and Value

While the cost isn’t explicitly listed here, the experience is considered to be quite good value, given the inclusions: transport, boat trips, guide, and the stops at major sights. Many reviewers felt it was worth the price for the chance to see turtles in the wild and enjoy the scenic beauty of Zakynthos’ coast.

Who Is This Tour For?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone eager to combine wildlife viewing with scenic exploration. If you’re someone who loves picturesque landscapes, secluded beaches, and wildlife encounters, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. It suits travelers who don’t mind a fair bit of boat time and are comfortable with short swims.

It’s also a great choice if you’re short on time but want to experience several of Zakynthos’ top sights in one go. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor add a lot to the experience, making it suitable for all ages, including kids who enjoy boat rides and wildlife spotting.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic way to experience some of Zakynthos’ most-loved sights. The combination of wildlife sightings, scenic caves, and beautiful beaches makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a mixture of adventure and relaxation. The hotel pickup and organized transport streamline the day, ensuring you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the sights.

The positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, which significantly enhance the experience. While open water might be a concern for some, the opportunity to see turtles in the wild and explore dramatic caves is genuinely memorable.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour promises a mix of fun, discovery, and natural beauty — a true snapshot of what makes Zakynthos special.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in most locations, making it convenient. Just note that pickups from Vasilikos, Keri, and St Nicholas Port are not available due to distance from the main office.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sandals, and sunscreen. These will help you stay comfortable during the boat rides and swimming stops.

How long is the tour?
The tour runs for a full day, starting with hotel pickup, followed by boat trips and sightseeing, then returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Will I see turtles?
Most likely, yes. Many guests, including those who left reviews, had the chance to see Caretta Caretta turtles in their natural habitat, which is a highlight of the trip.

Is swimming included?
Yes, there’s time for swimming and snorkeling at Turtle Island and near the caves, with about an hour at Turtle Island and a 20-minute swim near the caves.

What about the boat size and comfort?
The boats are small with glass bottoms, creating an intimate experience. Some travelers mention that open water can be a bit choppy, so be prepared for that.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy wildlife will find this trip fun and engaging. It’s a family-friendly activity with plenty of opportunities for photos and play.

This full-day adventure in Zakynthos offers plenty of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and relaxation, all through a well-organized, value-packed experience. Whether you’re captivated by the chance to see turtles or drawn to the stunning caves, this tour makes for a memorable day on the Greek island.