The Enchanting Avakas Gorge of Cyprus

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Andio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosow, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε για γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ya yatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathee]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na meiosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (dekka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (προς ....)
  [Ena isitirio (pros ....)]

Avakas Gorge is a stunning natural formation located on the Akamas Peninsula in Cyprus. The gorge was formed over millions of years through the erosive action of the Avgas River. The limestone cliffs, which rise up to 30 meters high, were gradually sculpted by the flowing water, creating the dramatic and narrow passageways that are seen today.

Evidence suggests that the area around Avakas Gorge was inhabited by prehistoric communities. Archaeological findings, including stone tools and pottery shards, indicate that these early humans utilized the resources provided by the gorge and its surrounding environment for their daily survival. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the life of the early inhabitants of Cyprus.

According to local legend, Avakas Gorge was a favored haunt of the ancient Greek gods. The rugged and mysterious terrain of the gorge was believed to be a place where gods like Aphrodite and Apollo would retreat to enjoy the untouched beauty of nature. This mythological connection adds a layer of cultural richness to the natural wonder of the gorge.

During the medieval period, the Akamas Peninsula, including Avakas Gorge, was strategically significant. The rugged terrain provided a natural defense, and there are records of fortifications and lookout points being established in the area to protect against invaders. The gorge itself served as a hidden route and refuge for local populations during times of conflict.

Avakas Gorge is renowned for its rich botanical diversity. The unique microclimate within the gorge supports a variety of plant species, some of which are endemic to Cyprus. Of particular note is the presence of the endangered Centaurea akamantis, a rare plant species found only in this region. The botanical significance of the gorge has been recognized and protected to preserve its natural heritage.

In recent decades, Avakas Gorge has become a focal point for conservation efforts. Environmental organizations and government initiatives have worked to protect the gorge from the impact of human activities and to maintain its pristine condition. These efforts ensure that the natural beauty and historical significance of Avakas Gorge are preserved for future generations to explore and appreciate.

Avakas Gorge is located on the Akamas Peninsula in the Paphos District of Cyprus. The nearest airport is Paphos International Airport, approximately 30 kilometers away. From Paphos, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach the gorge. There are also organized tours that include transportation to and from the site. Public buses run from Paphos to the nearby village of Peyia, from where you can take a taxi to the entrance of the gorge.

The most convenient way to explore Avakas Gorge and its surroundings is by renting a car. This allows flexibility to visit the gorge and other nearby attractions at your own pace. Taxis are available but can be expensive if used frequently. Organized tours are another option, often including transportation and a guide. For the more adventurous, hiking or biking from nearby villages is also possible, but be prepared for rugged terrain.

The official currency in Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in the Paphos District. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in the nearby villages of Peyia and Coral Bay, so withdrawing cash before heading to the gorge is recommended.

Avakas Gorge is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid hiking alone and inform someone of your plans before setting out. The terrain can be challenging and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and be cautious. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are in Paphos, so it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Peyia and Coral Bay. It is also recommended to carry a basic first-aid kit while hiking in the gorge.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for hiking. Avoid flip-flops or sandals. Religion: Do respect local customs if visiting nearby religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient on public buses. Don't expect strict adherence to schedules. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local Cypriot delicacies and accept hospitality graciously. Don't litter; always carry your trash out of the gorge.

To experience Avakas Gorge like a local, consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the gorge. Engage with locals in nearby villages to learn more about the area’s history and culture. For a unique experience, combine your visit with a trip to Lara Beach, known for its turtle nesting sites, or the charming village of Kathikas, famous for its wineries.