Your full Wanderlust guide to
Cyprus
The Greek south of Cyprus has sat uncomfortably alongside Turkish North Cyprus since 1973, when the Mediterranean island was divided. This situation makes an intriguing backdrop to any exploration of Cyprus, where modern history merges with some of the oldest relics in the region – just take a look at Kourion where remains date back to the 13th century BC, and the Tombs of the Kings, a large necropolis from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Both are protected UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Cyprus can be extremely touristy – coastal hotspots such as Agia Napa, Lemesos and Larnaca are overdeveloped and focus on their nightlife offerings. But it’s easy to escape the noise at Akamas Peninsula National Park on the west coast, with three official nature trails exploring its beautiful landscape of forests, gorges and beaches.
The seas surrounding Cyprus are rich with marine life, making the island one of the most enticing spots in the Mediterranean for divers. Turtles, octopus and shoaling fish can be found among ancient shipwrecks and underwater caves. Greenbay and DeCosta Bay are good locations for beginners, whereas diving to the wreckage of Zenobia is for the more experienced diver.
Move inland and you’ll find Cyprus has a mountainous interior. The central Troodos range is great for hiking, cycling and exploring its remote villages which cluster around monasteries, such as Omodos, Kalopanayiotis, Platres and Kakopetria. The latter is home to the Byzantine church of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis, with its architecture and frescoes dating back to the 14th century.
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When to go to Cyprus
Summer (June-August) is hot in Cyprus, with temperatures over 30°C. It’s also peak holiday season; Cyprus’s resorts are packed. Spring and autumn are more pleasant, and good for walking; April and May see the Cyprus hills covered in wildflowers.
Turtles can be seen on Cyprus’s beaches: females come ashore to lay in May, with eggs hatching a month or two later. Winter, from December to March can be cold, especially in the mountains.
International airports
Larnaca International (LCA) is 4km from Larnaca. Paphos International (PFO) is 6.5km from Paphos.
Getting around in Cyprus
Roads are generally good and distances short, so getting around Cyprus is easy. It’s best to hire a car, so you can explore Cyprus properly, especially for getting into the Troödos Mountains where there is no public transport.
Buses in Cyprus are frequent and well timed and good for getting around less rural areas, though do not run on Sundays. There are no trains.
Health & safety
No specific jabs are required for Cyprus. Take sunscreen and a hat to combat the summer sun.
If walking in the countryside, be wary of snakes (there are three poisonous types on Cyprus) – wear boots and socks, and don’t put your hands into crevices.
Tick-borne diseases can be caught in Cyprus – wear repellent and check your body for ticks after your walk.
Visit gov.uk for more information.
