Akamas Peninsula and Avakas Gorge: A Visitor's Guide

The Akamas is the least developed corner of Cyprus: a rugged peninsula of juniper scrub, white limestone gorges and empty beaches at the island's north-western tip. This guide covers what is open, how to get around and how to visit responsibly.

What is the Akamas Peninsula?

The Akamas Peninsula is a protected area in the Paphos district, stretching north of Pegeia and west of Latchi and Polis. Much of it is state forest managed by the Department of Forests, and it is part of the EU's Natura 2000 network for its plants, birds and nesting sea turtles.

There are no towns inside the peninsula, only forest tracks, walking trails, a few beach cafés at the edges and protected coastline. That is the appeal, and also why planning matters.

Is Avakas Gorge open?

As of October 2026, the Avakas Gorge trail is closed. The Department of Forests closed it on 6 December 2025 because of higher water flow, slippery ground, falling rocks and landslides. In May 2026 it confirmed the trail remained closed, with a chain and warning signs at the entrance, and said it accepts no responsibility for anyone who enters. Visit Cyprus still lists the trail as temporarily closed. A reopening will be announced by the Department of Forests.

What is the Avakas Gorge trail like?

When open, it is a 1.2 km linear trail on the west coast near Toxeftra Bay. You reach the start by following the Agios Georgios Pegeias–Toxeftra road for about 2.5 km, then heading inland. The route crosses an open valley and enters a narrow limestone gorge, with the final section in a stream that usually flows all year. Visit Cyprus rates it grade 1–2, recommends helmets because of falling rocks and warns that river crossings can become dangerous after storms. The gorge is home to the Akamas centaury, an endangered plant found only here.

Until it reopens, choose one of the other trails below.

Which trails can you walk in the Akamas?

Source: Visit Cyprus nature trails brochure. The Aphrodite trail climbs to the ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas (the Queen's Tower) and returns along the coast with views over Chrysochou Bay. Read our detailed guides to the Aphrodite trail and the Adonis trail.

How do you get there?

• From Paphos: about 45–60 minutes to Latchi and the Baths of Aphrodite via Polis, or 30 minutes to Agios Georgios Pegeias on the west coast.
• By bus: Paphos–Polis buses connect with local services towards Latchi; check timetables on our public transport guide.
• By boat: trips from Latchi harbour run along the north coast to the Blue Lagoon. See our boat trips and snorkelling guide.

Can you drive into the Akamas?

Only with care. Tracks beyond the Baths of Aphrodite and north of Agios Georgios are unpaved and rough. Most hire-car agreements exclude unpaved roads, and under the Forest Law driving off forest roads in a state forest is an offence. In April 2026 the Audit Office raised concerns about dangerous vehicle use on the Baths of Aphrodite–Fontana Amorosa track. The Department of Forests can close forest roads at short notice, especially in the fire season.

What else is there to see?

• Baths of Aphrodite – a natural grotto shaded by an old fig tree, where legend says the goddess bathed. There is a botanical garden, a car park and a tourist pavilion; please do not climb into or swim in the pool.
• Blue Lagoon – clear, shallow turquoise water on the north coast; best by boat.
• Lara Bay – on the west coast, one of the main nesting beaches for green and loggerhead turtles. During the nesting season, follow all signs, keep off marked nests and do not visit at night.
• Information centres – the Akamas Geology and Palaeontology Information Centre at Pano Arodes and the Avifauna and Flora Information Centre in Kathikas.

When is the best time to go?

March to May and October to November are best, with wildflowers in spring and mild walking weather. In July and August temperatures are high, shade is limited and wildfire risk is serious. Winter is often lovely for walking, but heavy rain can make tracks and gorges dangerous.

Practical tips

1. Carry plenty of water. Many trails have little or no drinking water.
2. Wear proper walking shoes and a hat; the terrain is rocky.
3. Do not camp outside designated sites. In 2025 the Department of Forests warned of zero tolerance for illegal camping in the Akamas, with penalties of up to one year in prison or €5,000.
4. No fires. Lighting a fire in or near a state forest is a serious crime. Report fires on 1407 or 112.
5. Take your rubbish home and do not pick plants.
6. Tell someone your route and keep your phone charged; signal is patchy.

What to do next

• Explore the area in our Latchi and Neo Chorio and Kathikas area guides.
• Find more walks in our hiking routes guide.
• See the whole district in our Paphos hub.