Self-guided hiking on the wild Akamas peninsula in Cyprus
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationEurope / Cyprus
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions28.66 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover the Akamas Peninsula , one of Cyprus 's most pristine natural areas, on a 3-night self-guided hiking trip . This accessible program takes you along a section of a route ranked among the island's top 5 hikes , through wild landscapes where coastal cliffs, panoramic trails, and protected nature intertwine.
Each day offers up to 6 km of walking , ideal for fully enjoying the panoramas without any technical difficulty. The trails wind between ridges overlooking the sea, Mediterranean scrubland and secluded coves , offering superb views of the unspoiled Akamas coastline.
The route also blends nature and local heritage . You will discover the medieval chapel of Agios Minas and stroll through the traditional village of Neo Chorio , known for its stone houses and authentic Cypriot architecture .
Accessible year-round , this trip is particularly enjoyable in spring, autumn, and winter , when temperatures are ideal for hiking. In summer, hikes are best done early in the morning or late in the afternoon to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
An active and balanced stay combining gentle hiking, spectacular coastal panoramas and cultural immersion in one of the wildest regions of Cyprus.
The highlights
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Stunning coastal views from altitudes of several hundred meters
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A nature rich in biodiversity, largely preserved
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A unique combination of walking and swimming in the sea
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
We also offer programs with longer versions of these hikes.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h
- Average distance/day: 6 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 225 m
- Average daily descent: 275 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
Your travel guide to take everywhere with you. 🗺️ (mainly with satellite photos of hiking routes)
Program
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Arrival
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Depending on the time of arrival, travelers can enjoy walks, moments of relaxation, swimming, snorkeling or exploring the area.
Day 1 -
Pissouromoutti Trail leading to the village of Neo Chorio
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 12km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You begin this hike near the ridge of the Akamas peninsula , starting from the Smiyies picnic area, a place associated with the legend of Adonis and Aphrodite . A short loop walk allows you to explore this natural area before continuing the route towards the village of Neo Chorio .
This version of the hike covers approximately 6km , a suitable distance if you prefer a shorter outing while still discovering the region's iconic landscapes. The route follows the Pissouromoutti Peak trail , offering sweeping views of the west coast and Chrysochous Bay .
Along the way, you'll discover the church of Agios Minas , built on the remains of a medieval monastery , which marks a cultural stop on the route. The final section of the walk crosses cultivated land , where you'll see carob trees , one of Cyprus's traditional crops.
The hike ends in the heart of Neo Chorio , a village with stone houses , where you can enjoy a typical Cypriot countryside atmosphere.
Day 2 -
The northwest section of the Aphrodite Coastal Trail
- Transportation Bus - 00h10 - 3km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 250 m
- Negative elevation 250 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This hike takes place on the northern section of the Aphrodite Circular Trail , on the Akamas Peninsula. The route is accessible year-round , even in winter when the vegetation becomes greener and wildflowers carpet the hills. The moderate ascents and descents make it an approachable hike for those seeking a shorter experience.
The route begins and ends near the Baths of Aphrodite cave , a small mythical site where, according to tradition, the goddess used to bathe. The Akamas region was also considered the legendary territory of Aphrodite and Adonis .
The first 2km follow a dirt track west of the baths, also used by the Aphrodite Trail. This section offers beautiful views of the sea and cliffs . In summer, you may encounter off-road vehicles , sometimes noisy and dusty.
You then leave the track to join a path that climbs southwest , offering panoramic views towards the Blue Lagoon and the tip of Cyprus at Cape Arnaoutis . The starting point of the hike can be reached by public bus 622 or on foot for approximately 2km .
Day 3
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation (breakfast included)
- Transport as per the program (from the hotel to the Smigies picnic site, then from the village of Neo Chorio back to the hotel)
- Information in the form of GPX files and a digital roadbook
- On-site assistance if needed
The price does not include
- Flights
- Meals other than those mentioned in the program
- Guided hikes
- Use of all equipment
- Any other means of transport than that mentioned in Price includes
- Personal expenses
Options
- Taxi to and from Paphos airport (for up to 4 passengers, normal luggage, maximum total weight of 40 kg) : CHF150.94 / reservation
- Taxi to and from Larnaca airport (for a maximum of 4 passengers, normal luggage, with a maximum total weight of 40 kg) : CHF365.92 / reservation
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Hikers should carry drinking water with them, between 0.5 and 1 liter per person (the exact amount depends on each person's profile and preferences, the type of hike, and the time of day and year).
- For snorkeling, it is recommended to bring a mask and snorkel.
Clothing to bring
Non-slip shoes or boots are essential. Sun protection is strongly recommended. Bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim or snorkel. It's worth noting that from May to December, the sea temperature in Cyprus is at least 20°C, with the lowest recorded temperature in February at below 17°C.
