Camping in Cyprus: Campsites, Rules and Tips (2026)

Camping in Cyprus means pine forests in the mountains or a pitch near the sea, but it comes with clear rules. Here is where you can legally camp, which sites were open in 2026 and how to stay safe in the fire season.

Where can you legally camp in Cyprus?

Only at designated campsites. The Department of Forests is clear that camping in state forests is allowed only in officially designated areas, with a permit. In practice you have two options:

• Forest campsites in the Troodos Mountains and the Paphos Forest, with basic facilities such as drinking water, toilets, tables and barbecue areas.
• Coastal campsites, a small number of sites near the sea, run by local authorities or private operators.

Beaches are not campsites. Some, such as Lara and other turtle-nesting beaches in the Akamas, are protected and have specific restrictions in the nesting season.

Is wild camping allowed?

No, not in state forests. In 2025 the Department of Forests announced zero tolerance for illegal camping, especially in sensitive areas such as the Akamas, working with the police, district administration and local municipalities. Penalties for illegal camping are up to one year in prison, a fine of up to €5,000, or both. The official E4 trail brochure also notes that camping inside the Akamas is prohibited.

Which campsites are open in 2026?

Several sites were closed for upgrades or redevelopment in 2026. A Politis report in July 2026 gave this picture:

Statuses change, so always confirm directly with the site or the Department of Forests before you travel. Fees are low but change from year to year; check the current amount when you book.

What are the forest campsites like?

Forest campsites are simple. Expect pitches under pine trees, drinking water, toilets and in some cases showers and a small kitchen area, plus designated barbecue spots. Stavros tis Psokas is the most remote, deep in the Paphos Forest and known for its mouflon enclosure. Bring everything you need, as shops are far away.

When is the best time to go camping?

• Mountains (Troodos, Paphos Forest): June to September are the main months. Nights can still be cool, so bring a warm sleeping bag. Outside summer, nights are cold and some sites close.
• Coast: May, June, September and October are the most comfortable. July and August are very hot, and shade matters.
• Avoid heavy rain and storm warnings in winter, and check the weather before heading to the mountains.

Fire safety: the most important rule

Wildfire season in Cyprus runs roughly from May to October, and forest fires are a serious threat every summer.

1. Only use designated barbecue or cooking areas, and follow any Department of Forests instructions.
2. No open fires elsewhere. Lighting a fire in a state forest, or within 2 km of its boundary outside designated spots, is a crime with penalties of up to 12 years in prison and fines of up to €100,000.
3. Respect fire bans. On high-risk days, barbecues may be banned even at designated sites.
4. Do not leave glass or cigarette ends in the forest.
5. Report smoke or fire immediately on 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112.

Practical tips for camping in Cyprus

• Book ahead for Stavros tis Psokas and for summer weekends anywhere.
• Take water and a basic first aid kit; mobile signal can be weak in the mountains.
• Store food securely and take all rubbish home.
• Campervans and caravans should use designated campsites; do not park overnight on beaches or forest tracks.
• Health cover: make sure you are registered with GESY or have insurance; see our GESY guide.

What to do next

• Plan walks from your campsite with our hiking routes guide and our E4 trail guide.
• See the Troodos waterfalls near Platres: Troodos waterfalls guide.
• Read our health, safety and practical tips before heading into the hills.