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Larnaca Salt Lake: A Flamingo Haven and Historical Landmark

Discover Larnaca Salt Lake: A haven for flamingos, a historical treasure, and a natural wonder on the coast of Cyprus.

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Larnaca Salt Lake, a complex of four interconnected lakes, is a stunning natural area southwest of Larnaca. It's a haven for migratory birds, most notably the thousands of pink flamingos that flock here between November and March, and a historically significant site with ruins dating back to the Bronze Age.

A brief summary to Salt lake_ flamingo route

  • WJ58+687, Salt Lake Hiking Trail, Larnaca, CY

Local tips

  • Visit between November and March to witness thousands of flamingos that migrate to the lake during the winter months.
  • Take a leisurely stroll or jog along the 4km nature trail that encircles the lake, offering scenic views and birdwatching opportunities.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, an important Islamic pilgrimage site located on the edge of the lake.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stark beauty of the salt-covered landscape in the summer or the vibrant pink hues of the flamingos in the winter.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you plan to walk the entire trail, as there is limited shade.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Finikoudes Beach, a central point in Larnaca, head southeast along the coastline towards the Larnaca Marina. Continue past the marina towards the Larnaca Fort. From there, proceed straight until you reach the Salt Lake area. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers and should take around 30-40 minutes. Follow the signs towards the Salt Lake Trail once you are in the vicinity of the lake.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes connect Larnaca city center to the Salt Lake area. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Buses 425, 442, 407, 429 and 430 have routes that pass near Larnaca Salt Lake. Look for bus stops near the old airport or along Artemis Avenue. A single bus fare within Larnaca typically costs around €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Larnaca. A taxi ride from the city center to Larnaca Salt Lake typically takes around 3 minutes and costs between €6-€8. You can find taxis at designated taxi stands or use ride-hailing apps to book a ride.

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Discover more about Salt lake_ flamingo route

Larnaca Salt Lake, known locally as 'Alyki,' is more than just a scenic spot; it's a vibrant ecosystem and a historical tapestry woven over millennia. Comprising four lakes—Alyki (the largest), Orphani, Soros, and Airport Lake—the complex covers 2.2 square kilometers and forms the second-largest salt lake in Cyprus. In winter, the lake fills with water, becoming a crucial stopover for migratory birds. The most famous of these are the flamingos, who arrive with the first rains, typically in November, and stay until March. These birds feed on the abundant brine shrimp, Artemia salina, which thrive in the salty waters, giving the flamingos their characteristic pink hue. Over 80 bird species visit the lake, including ducks, herons, and other waterfowl. As temperatures rise in the summer, the lake dries out, leaving a vast expanse of shimmering salt. This salt crust has been harvested since the Roman era and was a major export commodity for Cyprus until 1986. Legend says the lake's salinity is due to Saint Lazarus cursing an old woman who refused him hospitality, turning her vineyard into a salt lake. Scientifically, the salt originates from an underground reserve, dissolved by rainwater and concentrated through evaporation. The area is steeped in history, with archaeological finds indicating habitation since the Late Bronze Age. The lake was once a harbor serving the ancient town of Kition, a major commercial center. Today, visitors can explore the 4-kilometer nature trail that winds around the lake, leading to the Kamares Aqueduct, an 18th-century structure that once supplied water to Larnaca. The Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, one of Islam's holiest shrines, sits on the lake's bank, adding another layer to the area's rich cultural heritage. The Larnaca Salt Lake complex was declared a protected area in 1997 and is a significant Ramsar and Natura 2000 site, recognized as one of Europe's most important habitats for waterfowl.

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