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Akamas National Forest Park: Cyprus's Untamed Peninsula

Explore Akamas National Forest Park: a Cyprus treasure of rugged beauty, diverse nature, and mythological significance on the Akamas Peninsula.

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Akamas National Forest Park, a 230-square-kilometer peninsula on Cyprus's western tip, boasts rugged coastlines, verdant valleys, and dramatic gorges. This protected area offers hiking, swimming, and exploration of diverse flora and fauna, including rare orchids and loggerhead turtles. Steeped in mythology, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

A brief summary to Akamas National Forest Park

  • 27VX+5QM, Neo Chorio, CY

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and protect yourself from the sun, as the terrain can be rugged and shade is limited.
  • Visit during the spring or autumn for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Consider exploring the park by boat from Latchi to experience the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Paphos, take the A6 highway towards Polis. Follow the signs for Polis, then turn onto the B7 road towards Neo Chorio. Continue past Neo Chorio, following signs for the Akamas Peninsula. Designated parking areas are available near the park entrance. Note that roads within the park can be unpaved and rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is advisable for exploring beyond the main attractions. Parking fees may apply in some areas, typically around €2 to €5.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus 645 from Paphos to Polis Chrysochous. From Polis, transfer to bus 622, which runs to the Baths of Aphrodite, near the Akamas National Forest Park entrance. The bus from Paphos to Polis takes approximately 1 hour, and bus 622 runs hourly between 6 am and 6 pm. A single bus fare costs around €1.50. From the Baths of Aphrodite, you can walk into the park or take a jeep or taxi.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi from Paphos to Akamas National Forest Park will cost approximately €40-€50 and take around 40 minutes. A taxi from Polis to the park entrance will cost around €20-€30 and take about 25 minutes. From Neo Chorio, a taxi to the park entrance will cost around €10-€15.

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Discover more about Akamas National Forest Park

Akamas National Forest Park, located on the westernmost point of Cyprus, is a captivating landscape of untamed beauty and ecological significance. Spanning 230 square kilometers, this natural haven features rugged coastlines, verdant valleys, and dramatic gorges, offering visitors an immersive experience in the heart of the island's wilderness. The park's diverse terrain is a playground for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Hiking trails wind through fragrant pine forests, ascend rocky cliffs, and descend into secluded coves, each path revealing breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. The famous Avakas Gorge, with its towering limestone walls and lush vegetation, invites exploration of its narrow passages and unique ecosystem. The park is also home to the Baths of Aphrodite, a natural pool steeped in mythology, where the goddess of love is said to have bathed. Akamas is a sanctuary for biodiversity, harboring a remarkable array of flora and fauna. The park is home to over 530 indigenous plant species, including rare orchids and vibrant wildflowers that bloom in spring. Birdwatchers can spot migratory birds and endemic species, while wildlife enthusiasts may encounter foxes, hares, and various reptiles. The coastline is also a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles, a protected species that finds refuge on the park's secluded beaches. Beyond its natural wonders, Akamas holds historical and cultural significance. Ancient ruins and traditional villages dot the landscape. The peninsula is named after Akamas, the son of Theseus, a hero of the Trojan War. The area has been inhabited since Neolithic times, with scattered Byzantine chapels indicating settlements in Roman years. To fully appreciate Akamas, consider exploring its diverse trails. The Aphrodite Trail offers stunning coastal views and passes by the Baths of Aphrodite, while the Adonis Trail leads to panoramic vistas of Chrysochou Bay. The Smigies Trail offers shorter and longer routes through the Akamas Forest, passing by old mines and offering viewpoints.

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