Castle of Koskinas

Samos is an outstanding destination for birdwatching, as it lies on one of the most important migratory routes between Europe and Africa. The Alyki wetland at the eastern tip, a protected NATURA 2000 area, serves as a critical refueling station for thousands of birds. Here, visitors can observe numerous migratory species, such as flamingos, herons, wild ducks and many shorebirds, especially in winter. Beyond Alyki, other important locations include the Potami area at Karlovasi, the Pythagoreio dam and Mounts Kerkis and Ampelos, where one may encounter raptors such as the rare golden eagle, the short‑toed snake eagle and Bonelli’s eagle. The best seasons are spring and autumn, when migratory passage is at its peak. Visitors can enjoy views of rare and threatened species while exploring the island’s rich flora and fauna, making the experience unique for every nature lover.