Farms and Animal Experiences for Kids in Cyprus

Children in Cyprus grow up surrounded by goats on hillsides and donkeys in village fields, but getting close to animals takes a little planning. The island has a good spread of farms, donkey parks and riding clubs where kids can feed, stroke and ride. Here are the best farms and animal experiences for kids in Cyprus, with tips to make the day go smoothly.

If you are looking for zoos and the aquarium, see our things to do with kids in Cyprus guide, which covers them by district.

Where can kids meet donkeys?

The Cyprus donkey is part of village life, and the donkey farms are some of the most popular family days out on the island.

• Golden Donkeys Farm, Skarinou: The island's biggest donkey farm, with well over a hundred donkeys, just off the Limassol–Larnaca motorway. Children can feed the donkeys and take short rides, and there is a playground, a small museum of village life, a restaurant and a shop selling donkey-milk products. Baby donkeys are usually born in spring.
• Agios Georgios Farm, Skarinou: A traditional-style farm in the same village, with donkeys and other animals, donkey rides, a large playground and a restaurant. Sundays are busy with local families, which makes for a lively atmosphere.
• Apesia Hills Donkey Farm: In the hills less than half an hour from Limassol. Children can meet Cypriot donkeys and go on donkey rides, and parents can try carob treats and donkey milk.
• Achna Lake Donkey Park: By the Achna dam in Dasaki Achnas, in Famagusta district, a simpler spot to see donkeys in a natural setting. It pairs well with a walk by the lake.

Is Camel Park worth visiting?

Yes, especially with younger children. Camel Park is on the road between Kiti and Mazotos, about 15 minutes from Larnaca airport, and it is home to more than 100 animals.

• Rides: Camel rides are the big draw, and there are donkey and pony rides for smaller children too.
• Other animals: Alpacas, llamas, ostriches, goats, deer, wallabies, lemurs, turtles and birds. Children can help feed the camels.
• Extras: A playground, a swimming pool and a restaurant, so you can stay most of the day in warmer months. Bring swimwear and a change of clothes.

Where can kids see alpacas and ostriches?

We could not confirm a stand-alone alpaca farm or ostrich farm that is open to the public in 2026. Your best options are:

• Camel Park, Mazotos: Alpacas, llamas and ostriches all live here alongside the camels.
• Petrides Farm Park, Marki: A farm park between Kotsiatis and Tseri, south of Nicosia, where ostriches are among the animals. It also has playgrounds, a café and space for family events.

Which working farms welcome families?

• Riverland Bio Farm, Kampia: An organic sheep and goat dairy farm in the hills south-west of Nicosia that has welcomed schools and families since 2012. Children can meet goats, sheep, donkeys and ponies, watch milking and join workshops on making halloumi and bread. Outdoor activities such as archery and climbing are offered for groups, so ask what is running when you book.
• Petrides Farm Park, Marki: Animals, playgrounds and a café in one place, with room to run around. It is an easy half-day trip from Nicosia.

For overnight farm stays and village life, read our guide to agrotourism in Cyprus.

Where can children go horse riding?

Many riding clubs in Cyprus teach children, but schedules and age limits vary, so always call first.

• Aphrodite Hills Riding Club: On forestry land next to the Aphrodite Hills resort, between Paphos and Limassol. It runs short pony rides for children, with height and age limits, and a pony club where children learn to ride and care for ponies. Private lessons are also available.
• Farm parks: Camel Park and Riverland Bio Farm both offer pony rides, which suit younger children who just want a first taste of riding.

Are there bee parks and nature parks for kids?

Bees may not be cuddly, but bee parks are a calm, educational outing.

• Athalassa Beekeeping Park: Inside Athalassa National Forest Park in Nicosia, with a focus on bees and biodiversity. Combine it with the lake and walking paths.
• Antelia Bee Park, Achna: Exhibits about beekeeping, a playground, a nature observatory and walking areas, near the Achna dam in Famagusta district.

Can families visit animal sanctuaries?

Some animal shelters welcome visitors and volunteers, including families, but most ask you to arrange it in advance, and many are run by small charities with limited staff. Contact a shelter before turning up, and ask whether children can help with walking dogs or socialising animals.

Note that the Donkey Sanctuary's remaining site in Cyprus, at Prastio in Limassol district, is not open to the public.

Practical tips

1. Go early in summer: Most farms have little shade. In July and August, arrive when they open or come for the late afternoon.
2. Dress for mud: Closed shoes are best, and old clothes are wise after rain. Pack hand wipes and hand gel for after feeding.
3. Check ride rules: Camel, pony and donkey rides usually have weight, height or age limits. Ask before you promise a ride.
4. Book where needed: Workshops, group visits and some tours need advance booking. Weekends and school holidays are busiest.
5. Feed only what is allowed: Many farms sell suitable feed. Don't bring your own food for the animals.
6. Check the season: Spring is the best time for baby animals. Opening hours often change between summer and winter.

What to do next

• See zoos, water parks and more in things to do with kids in Cyprus.
• Stay on a farm with our agrotourism in Cyprus guide.
• Spot wild flamingos with our Larnaca Salt Lake flamingos guide.
• Explore further with traditional villages in Cyprus.