Spend a day moving from the cool shade of Rhodes’ Butterfly Valley to the quiet harbor of Chalki. This full-day tour pairs easy forest walking with a short boat ride and time to swim and explore a traditional Greek islet.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the coach into dappled shade; resin-scented storax trees drip sunlight onto a narrow path and a soft carpet of leaf litter cushions your steps. In the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) the air hums with wings — during summer the slopes glitter with the dark-and-orange Callimorpha moths clustered where sap runs. Later, the landscape opens to sea: a short boat crossing delivers you to Chalki, a sleepy, low-lying isle where flat-roofed houses huddle around a small harbor and the Aegean slips cool and clear against pebbled coves.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and short, uneven forest walks but no technical climbing.
Wildlife
History
Petaloudes was designated a nature reserve to protect the unique attraction of storax trees and their seasonal moth colonies; Chalki prospered in the 19th century on sponge fishing and maritime trade, reflected in its compact neoclassical architecture.
Conservation
Stay on marked trails in the reserve, avoid touching or disturbing butterflies, and minimize single-use plastics—both sites are sensitive to trampling and pollution.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day Butterflies and Boat Tour to Chalki Island today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Peak butterfly season
Visit between mid-June and mid-September for the densest gatherings of Callimorpha moths attracted to storax tree resin.
Bring swim gear
There’s time for a refreshing swim at Chalki—pack a towel and quick-dry swimwear in a daypack.
Prepare for the boat crossing
The harbor-to-island transfer can be bumpy; take motion-sickness medication beforehand if you’re sensitive.
ID required
Carry your passport or official EU ID—staff may check documents at boarding or checkpoints.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides grip on damp, uneven forest paths in the valley.
spring
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
For the afternoon swim at Chalki’s clear coves.
summer
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against strong Aegean sun on boat decks and island walks.
summer
Light waterproof layer
Useful for mist from waterfalls and sudden coastal breezes.
fall