Issue 81 - February 2022

Cuba Shows How to Take Action on Climate Change

By Helen Yaffee

Cuba, a small island besieged by the United States, is taking concrete measures to reorient its economy in the fight against climate change. It’s an example that the whole world should take seriously”

Cuba may be responsible for only 0.08 percent of global CO2 emissions, but this Caribbean Island is disproportionately hard-hit by the effects of climate change. The frequency and severity of extreme weather events — hurricanes, drought, torrential rain, flooding — is increasing, to the detriment of ecosystems, food production, and public health. Without action to protect the coastline from rising sea levels, up to 10 percent of Cuban territory could be submerged by the end of the century. This risks wiping out coastal towns, polluting water supplies, destroying agricultural lands, ruining tourist beaches, and forcing one million people to relocate — some 9 percent of the population.

But unlike in many countries, where climate action is always something promised for the future, in Cuba, serious action is being taken now. Between 2006 and 2020, several international reports identified the island nation as the world leader in sustainable development. And in spring 2017, the Cuban government approved Tarea Vida (“Life Task”), its long-term plan to confront climate change. The plan identifies at-risk populations and regions, formulating a hierarchy of “strategic areas” and “tasks” in which climate scientists, ecologists, and social scientists work alongside local communities, specialists, and authorities to respond to specific threats. To be progressively implemented in stages from 2017 to the year 2100, Tarea Vida also incorporates mitigation actions like the shift to renewable energy sources and legal enforcement of environmental protections .

In summer 2021, I went to Cuba to learn about Tarea Vida and produce a documentary to be shown during the COP26 international climate change conference in Glasgow. My visit coincided with a surge in COVID-19 cases on the island, and the public health measures imposed to reduce contagion, as well as the July 11 protests. Despite these conditions, we moved freely throughout Havana interviewing climate and social scientists, policymakers, leaders of Cuba’s Civil Defense, people in the street, and communities vulnerable to climate change.

Pro-government supporters demonstrate with Cuban flags in Havana, Cuba, on November 14, 2021. (Yamil Lage / AFP via Getty Images)

On Havana’s Santa Fe coastline, I came across a fisherman living with his family among abandoned buildings. He described how, when the water floods the ground floor, their home is like a ship at sea. Despite the threat, they intend to stay: “This house can be reduced to one block; I’m not moving,” he said. The first “task” in Tarea Vida includes protecting these vulnerable communities through relocating households or entire settlements. The Cuban state pays for relocation, including the construction of new homes, social services, and public infrastructure. However, it is not mandatory, meaning that these residents must be involved in the decision-making and construction process. There are also examples of communities proposing their own adaptation strategies, enabling them to remain on the coast.

Tarea Vida is the culmination of decades of environmental protection regulation, the promotion of sustainable development and scientific investigation. Within Cuba, it is conceived of as a new basis for development, part of a cultural change and a broader process of decentralization of responsibilities, powers, and budgets to local communities. Here, we see that environmental considerations are integral to Cuba’s national development strategy, rather than just a side concern. Tarea Vida is also driven by necessity; climate change is already impacting life on the island. “Today in Cuba, the country’s climate is undergoing a complete transition from a humid tropical climate toward a subhumid climate, in which the patterns of rain, availability of water, soil conditions, and temperatures will be different,” explains Orlando Rey Santos, a ministerial adviser who led Cuba’s delegation to COP26. “We will have to feed ourselves differently, build differently, dress differently. It is very complex.”

“From Rainforest to Cane Field”

Centuries of colonial and then imperialist exploitation and the imposition of the agro-export model led to chronic deforestation and soil erosion in Cuba. The expansion of the sugar industry reduced the island’s forest cover from 95 percent pre- colonization to 14 percent at the moment of the revolution in 1959, turning Cuba “from rainforest to cane field,” as Cuban environmental historian Reinaldo Funes Monzote titled his award-winning book. Redressing this historical legacy became part of the project for revolutionary transformation post-1959, which sought to break the chains of underdevelopment.

Despite the revolutionaries’ early aspirations, Cuba continued to be dominated by the sugar industry through its trade with the Soviet bloc. Productive activities that contributed to pollution and erosion continued, including on account of Cuba’s embrace of the so-called “Green Revolution” of mechanized agriculture — an approach adopted in many developing countries to increase agricultural output. However, the detrimental effects were gradually recognized and incrementally redressed, particularly from the 1990s. There has been an increasing concern with protecting the natural endowments of the Cuban archipelago, which boasts extraordinary biodiversity and coastal resources of global importance. The environmental agenda was backed up by Cuba’s scientific and institutional capacity and facilitated by its political-economic framework.

In his work on Cuban environmental law, Oliver A. Houck observed that: “post-revolutionary Cuban law promoted public and collective values from the start. Environmental laws fit easily into this framework.” As early as May 1959, the Agrarian Reform Law gave the state responsibility for protecting natural areas, initiated reforestation programs, and excluded forest reserves from distribution to agricultural collectives. Cuba’s socialist system prioritizes human welfare, and the social character of property facilitates environmental protection and the rational use of natural resources.

This process was not automatic — rather, it required geographers and environmentalists to drive the post-1959 government’s environmental agenda. Outstanding among them was Antonio Núñez Jiménez, a socialist and professor of geography in the 1950s. He served as a captain in Che Guevara’s Rebel Army column and headed the National Institute of Agrarian Reform, among other roles. Influenced by Núñez Jiménez, Fidel Castro also propelled Cuba’s environmental movement. Tirso W. Sáenz, who worked closely with Guevara in the early 1960s and headed Cuba’s first environmental commission from 1976 told me, “Fidel was the main driving force for the incorporation of environmental concerns into Cuban policy.” The Cuban Communist Party has also openly endorsed environmental protection and sustainable growth, which, according to Houck, “provides significant legitimacy to environmental programs.”

In 1976, Cuba was among the first countries in the world to include environmental issues in its constitution, and the National Commission for the Protection of the Environment and the Rational Use of Natural Resources was set up. That was eleven years before the UN’s Brundtland Report introduced the notion of “sustainable development” to the world. In the following decades, studies and projects were undertaken and environmental regulations introduced to protect fauna and flora. In 1992, Fidel Castro delivered an uncharacteristically short and appropriately alarming speech at the Earth Summit in Brazil. He blamed exploitative and unequal international relations, resulting from colonialism and imperialism, for the rapacious environmental destruction fueled by capitalist consumer societies, threatening the extinction of mankind.

That year, a commitment to sustainable development was introduced to the Cuban constitution. Scientific investigations into the impact of climate change in Cuba were initiated. In 1994, a new Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment (CITMA) was established. It devised a National Environment Strategy, which was adopted in 1997, the same year Law 81 was approved in the National Assembly. Laura Rivalta, a University of Havana law graduate specializing in environmental regulations, explains that this law gave CITMA broad powers to “control, direct, and execute environmental policy” while putting “boundaries and limits” on the activities of foreign companies operating in Cuba. “The new Cuban Constitution approved in 2019 establishes the right to enjoy a healthy and balanced environment as a human right,” she adds.

Not Beholden to Profit

Four factors underpin Cuba’s capacity to develop such an ambitious state plan. First, Cuba’s state-dominated, centrally planned economy helps the government to mobilize resources and direct national strategy without having to incentivize private profit — unlike other countries that rely on “market solutions” for climate change.

Second, Tarea Vida builds on Cuba’s world- leading record of anticipating and responding to risks and natural disasters. This has already been frequently demonstrated in its response to hurricanes and, since March 2020, in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Third is Cuba’s Civil Defense system, established following the devastating Hurricane Flora of 1963. During my visit to the national command, Lieutenant Colonel Gloria Gelis Martínez described their “operational and technical procedures for early warning of the impact of extreme meteorological events. We have surveillance zones and maximum alert zones where we monitor the approach of an event and its impact.” A National Defense Council coordinates this system and is reproduced at provincial, municipal, and neighborhood levels throughout the country. Meteorologist Eduardo Planos explained: At the local level, risk-study centers focus on the specific phenomenon, and the neighborhood is organized. The social organizations in each area take preventative measures. Local governments set up local defense councils, which organize how the system works, distribute basic foodstuff so people don’t go without, check electrical installations and the evacuation plan.

Fourth is Cuba’s capacity to collect and analyze local data. Rey Santos highlights what this means practically: Studies indicate that the average rise in sea level will be around 29 centimeters by 2050. However, we have carried out the same analysis for 66 points of the national territory, as there are differences depending on local conditions. To carry out such an analysis, taking IPCC data on global sea level rises to each location in Cuba can only be done if you are backed up by strong science.

Tarea Vida Is Working

The 2017-2020 “short-term” results of Tarea Vida are currently under evaluation. This period coincided with Donald Trump’s presidency and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Trump administration severely tightened US sanctions against Cuba, further obstructing its access to resources and finances. The pandemic further battered the economy through the loss of tourism revenues. Nonetheless, there have been tangible achievements: a massive 11 percent of the most vulnerable coastal homes have been relocated; coral farms have been set up; 380 km2 of mangroves have been recovered, serving as a natural coastal defense; and 1 billion pesos were invested in the country’s hydraulic program. Reforestation programs since 1959 have raised forest cover to 30 percent.

What can other Global South countries learn from this? The Copenhagen Accord of December 2009 pledged climate funding to the developing world, rising to USD$100 billion annually by 2020. But this commitment hasn’t been met. “They count funding twice, count money promised but not delivered, count as donations money that’s given to a country that is actually returned because it is a loan,” complains Rey Santos. “International financing is totally weighted in favor of mitigation, which is a business. There is much less money for adaptation. Funding is extremely low for small island developing states [SIDS], which are among the most vulnerable groups.” He describes “beautiful” climate change plans produced to comply with international commitments, then filed away. In contrast, “in Cuba, Tarea Vida is a living process, a product of the system that generated it.”

The Cuban approach to climate adaptation offers an alternative to globally dominant paradigms based on the private sector .

Cuba’s access to international finance is more limited than other countries due to the US blockade, which prevents it from accessing multilateral development banks. It instead depends on bilateral cooperation and the United Nations for finance and cooperation. US pressure and sanctions don’t just hit Cuba directly, they are also targeted against its potential partners in third countries. For example, the United States prohibits the sale to Cuba of equipment in which 10 percent or more of the components are made by US companies.

The Cuban approach to climate adaptation and mitigation offers an alternative to the globally dominant paradigms based on the private sector or public-private partnerships. It has increasing relevance to tourism-dependent Caribbean SIDS (Small Island Developing States) and other Global South countries emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic with levels of indebtedness that will obstruct future access to international financing. This will bring them closer to the financial and resource restraints that Cuba has confronted for decades due to US sanctions. Tarea Vida relies on low-cost domestic solutions, not external funding.

Rey Santos cautions against trying to advance a climate agenda without addressing structural problems like extreme poverty and deep social and economic inequality. He says it is impossible to convert the world’s energy matrix from fossil fuels to renewable energies without reducing consumption levels when there are insufficient resources to produce the solar panels and wind turbines required or insufficient space to host them. “If you automatically made all transportation electric tomorrow, you would have the same problems of congestion, parking, highways, and heavy consumption of steel and cement,” he points out. “There must be a change in the way of life, in our aspirations. This is part of the debate about socialism, part of Che Guevara’s ideas on the ‘new man.’ Without forming that new human, it is very difficult to confront the climate issue.” A plan like Tarea Vida requires a vision that is not directed toward profit or self-interest. “It must be premised on social equity and rejecting inequality. A plan of this nature requires a different social system, and that is socialism,” he concludes.

Clearly, this political economy framework doesn’t exist in other SIDS. But with the COP26 summit in Glasgow again showing governments’ lack of determination to act on the climate and their refusal to encroach on private interests, the Cuban approach of using environmental science, natural solutions, and community participation can provide examples of best practice to those who do want to confront climate disaster.

Yaffee’s documentary Cuba’s Life Task: Combating Climate Change

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Issue 81 - February 2022

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – February 2022 – Issue 81

Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Beautiful and diverse, Cyprus’ terrain lures many cyclists from all over Europe who want to experience epic cycling adventures across scenic, peaceful and car-free routes. The island is a firm favourite for competitive and leisurely cycling, mountain biking and road cycling alike. Read more…

Feature Destination: Climbing in Cyprus

Cyprus is an island full of hidden climbing treasures that can satiate climbers of all disciplines and skill levels. From beginners to experienced and elite climbers, from fans of traditional climbing to sport, speed, aid and recreational climbing or bouldering, Aphrodite’s birthplace offers experiences beyond imagination. Read more…

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore! Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. Read more…

Conservation Photography with Karim & Jack

Humpback Whales Emerging Through The Bubble – Under the Waves with Karim Iliya

Berthella Martensi – Jack’s February 2022 Underwater Photograph

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The Nature Coaching Cure to Eco-Despair is Right Outside

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Reef-World Stronger & More Dynamic Moving Towards 2022 Despite Global Pandemic

The Reef-World Foundation – international coordinator of the UN Environment Programme’s Green Fins initiative – reveals the highlights and major developments in their latest 2020–2021 annual report today. The report shows how the charity has had to adapt to the pandemic to continue to deliver and is determined to build back better. Read more…

History Forgot The Life-Saving Service That Birthed The U.S. Coast Guard: James Charlet is Changing That

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The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here or email us Here.

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Biking enthusiasts get impressed by Cyprus’ varied landscape that can go from steep to flat and from rocky to clay within only a few kilometres.

Ride out into urban, rural, mountainous and coastal roadways packed with a range of natural wonders. Follow the designated cycling routes or venture out on your own biking adventure. Feel the Mediterranean breeze through your hair and get spontaneous; you might end up in a delightfully unexpected place!

The lack of headwinds, the sunny summers and mild winters in Cyprus make cycling an enjoyable activity throughout the year. Yet, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons when the days are long and not overly hot.

Various convenient rides start from Paphos in the west, Limassol in the south and from the capital Nicosia, towards the Troodos Mountain range at the heart of the island. Explore the coastal routes that offer spectacular views of picturesque bays and turquoise waters. Experienced cyclists choose to follow the valleys up to Mount Olympos through the rugged Troodos forest.

Ready to embark on a memorable cycling experience in the land of legends?

MTB & Road Cycling in Cyprus

The mountainous territory and the magnificent Troodos forest routes at high altitudes make Cyprus a great European destination for mountain bikers. The bike trails network at Troodos and Akamas peninsula are easily accessible wherever you’re based in Cyprus. Off-road cyclists can test their technical skills and stamina. The terrain becomes very challenging at certain points along the cycling routes, with steep slopes and rocky surfaces. MTB is allowed in any region of the island.

For road cyclists, Cyprus also features smooth road surfaces, dedicated cycling lanes around big towns, and most importantly, there is hardly any traffic! The cycling routes guide visitors through tranquil forests, archaeological sites, idyllic vineyards, traditional villages and stunning olive groves.

The island boasts 45 cycle routes for outdoor fans:

17 bike trails
23 mountain biking routes
5 road cycling rides

Tips to get prepared for Cycling in Cyprus

Cyprus is a great destination to meet other cycling enthusiasts, take in the beautiful scenery and put your skills to the test.

Once you have booked your cycling holidays on the island, it’s time to get well-prepared to ensure you enjoy your biking adventure to the maximum.

Before you put on your lycra shorts and cycling shoes, check out some top tips that will help you make the most out of your trip, have loads of fun and get back home with a suitcase full of unforgettable experiences!

Outline a tentative cycling plan. Plan and study your trip itinerary and grading before you take your bike on tour in Cyprus. Will you follow your own route or join an organized cycling journey with professional drivers and local guides? Create your cycling bucket list and let Cyprus amaze you with its incredible blend of scenery, culture and history.
Prepare your bike or rent one on the island. Cyprus’ long climbs and steep descents will be challenging not only for your physical strength but also for the bike. Make sure your bike’s gears, brakes, pedals and tires are in good condition before you pack it up to travel. If you do not wish to travel with your own bike, you’ll find many bike rental shops on the island.
Remember to cycle on the left-hand side of the road. Use the street only if there is no cycling lane and always keep your bike on the left-hand side of the road as Cyprus follows the left-hand traffic system. In addition, be aware that cycling on highways is illegal and you might get a fine.

Who can go cycling in Cyprus?

You don’t have to be a cycling pro to explore Cyprus on two wheels. The island features a diverse landscape with thematic routes suitable for all level cyclists . From beginner to more advanced cyclists to families with children, Cyprus will offer you the ultimate biking experience!

Top Cycling Routes in Cyprus

With 45 cycling routes, you will never get enough of Cyprus!

Athalassa National Forest Park Cycling Route , Nicosia

The Athalassa National Forest Park nestles to the southeast of Nicosia and it is the greenest area within the capital’s territory. The park is surrounded by Aglantzia in the north, Strovolos and Latsia in the southwest, and Geri in the southeast.

It features a 16 km bicycle path passing along a lake and through a stunning eucalyptus-lined forest. It’s a very popular training and recreational cycling area among locals.

The route is fun and relaxing, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. The surface varies from hard pack to gravel to soft sand and dirt roads.

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 16 km
Estimated duration: Suitable for all types of bicycles
Start point: South of Nicosia park (Lefkosia)
End point: East of the Nicosia – Limassol motorway
Terrain: Paved road

A Sea of Green and the Coast route, Larnaca – Limassol

The route starts in the historic and picturesque village of Tochni in Larnaca District and heads to Choirokoitia – a UNESCO World Heritage site as of 1998. The next stop is Vavla, a traditional village with white-stone houses. Head downward to Lageia and then uphill towards Ora village. Here starts the mountainous terrain of Limassol with the villages of Akapnou, Eptagonia, Arakapas, Dierona, Akrounta and the Germasogeia urban area.

The route passes through the archaeological site of Amathus, where cyclists stop to gaze at the impressive remains of the ancient city-kingdom that dates back to the 4th century BC. The site features public baths, the Agora, the Temple of Aphrodite, several tombs and early Christian basilicas. The cycling route continues along the coast, offering wonderful views of the Mediterranean and the long glistening beaches.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 83,8 km
Terrain:Mountain
Road surface: Paved
Highest point: 688 m
Start point: Tochni
Loop: Yes. It ends back in the village of Tochni.

Tour of Marathasa Cycling Route, Troodos – Nicosia – Limassol – Paphos

This fascinating cycling excursion begins in Troodos square and climbs to the west toward Mount Olympos. Next, the route continues downhill to Prodromos village (the highest in Cyprus) and turns right to a pinewood area and Kykkos monastery. Spend some time here exploring one of the most lavish religious sites on the island, dedicated to Virgin Mary. The route continues to Stavros tis Psokas and the breathtaking Cedar Valley.

The fresh air, the beauty of the virgin nature and the lovely architecture of the mountainous villages is an experience you will never forget.

Difficulty: Intense
Distance: 90,34 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: MTB or road bike with low gear ratios
Highest point: 1824 m
Elevation gain: 4746 m
Start point: Troodos square
Loop: Yes

Paphos (Pafos) , Polis Cycling Route

An exciting and demanding route that goes from Paphos to Polis, the main town of Chrysochou Bay.

The adventurous uphill trip starts from Kato Paphos and follows the coastal road to Coral Bay. It then climbs to the village of Peyia (Pegeia), one of the largest villages in the region, known for its ancient baths, the natural freshwater fountains and its spectacular Sea Caves.

Peyia Sea Caves is a unique place of great geological interest and incomparable beauty. It features priceless coastal formations created thousands of years ago. Along the bay, cyclists can admire enormous rocky seashores, scattered islets and large caves. The awe-inspiring view showcases the sea’s magnificent power.

From Peyia, cyclists can enjoy incredible panoramic vistas to Coral Bay and Paphos city. The route continues through the forest and heads toward Kathikas village and Prodromos. The cycling route ends in Polis.

Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 37 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: Mountain bike with excellent suspension
Elevation gain: 615 m
Start point: Paphos
End poing: Polis Chrysochous

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

Hiking in Cyprus

Peaceful afternoon in Ayia Napa, Famagusta, Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore!

Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. At the same time, you will get to enjoy opulent sunsets and warm weather.

The island offers a great variety of easily accessible hiking trails that steer visitors to some of the best corners of Cyprus. Natural beauty, remnants of history and rich culture surround you in every direction.

The sign-posted walking trails and ancient footpaths highlight Cyprus’ deep-rooted beauty and its strong Mediterranean character. Hikers love trekking through the island’s placid villages with cobbled streets and stone houses, modest monasteries and fragrant vineyards.

Trails range in difficulty and length, from 3 km to 176 km. Maps, itineraries and guidebooks are available at the tourist information offices in Cyprus’ big cities and online.

So, lace up your hiking boots, grab a walking stick and start exploring Cyprus on foot!

Tips to get prepared for Hiking in Cyprus

Cyprus has hiking trails for outdoor fanatics of all fitness levels. With appropriate planning, the right tools, and an appetite for adventure, you can enjoy a pleasant and safe hike.

Leave behind any stressful thoughts, obligations, work emails, and heavy schedules and enjoy the journey. But before you hit the trail, check out these top hints for casual strolls or hikes on steep slopes.

Plan the hike ahead. Head to VisitCyprus to choose among over 50 designated thematic routes, including nature trails, wine routes, religious routes, cultural routes and more. You’ll find all the information you need to plan your hiking adventure in detail. Based on your trekking experience and mood, you can pick among easy, moderate or more challenging routes to explore. Alternatively, opt for the guided hiking tours running across the island throughout the year.
Design your route according to the season. Temperatures in Cyprus can exceed 40°C during summertime. Choose short and easy trails along the coastline and long walks in Troodos’ pathways from June to August. Always remember to have sunscreen, glasses, a sun hat, plenty of water and some Cypriot raisins for an energy boost.
Research in advance for drinking water sources in remote areas. Plan your stops for lunch and water well in advance, especially when hiking in remote areas like the Troodos Mountains or the Akamas peninsula.
Take with you the right gear. Pick comfortable and breathable clothing that helps you keep warm in winter or cool off for the hot summer months. Opt for clothes of vivid colors that offer adequate sun protection. If you go for Cyprus’ rocky trails and steep slopes, put on a reliable pair of walking shoes.

Who can go hiking in Cyprus?

Cyprus features hiking and walking trails for all ages to explore. You can go hiking alone, with your partner, friends, family and children, or a group of like-minded hikers. There are easy, moderate and hard trails to follow based on your hiking experience.

Top Hiking Trails in Cyprus

Caledonia (Kalidonia) Waterfall Trail – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

This unique trail passes through the dense forest of Troodos Mountain – an oasis full of dazzling pine trees, wild roses and golden oaks. It runs alongside burbling streams and the “Krios Potamos.” The view of one of Cyprus’ tallest waterfalls in the heart of Troodos is breathtaking. Along the way, hikers may get carried away by the stunning views of the valley below until they reach “Psilo Dentro” in Pano Platres.

Difficulty: Difficult. Suitable for seasoned hikers and families with older children.
Length: 3 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 1.5 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,571 m
Trailhead: Troodos Platres road

Insider Tip: Best to visit From March to October. While hiking, you can take a closer look at the endemic plants, such as the Purple Rock Cress (Arabis purpurea) and Aphrodite’s spurge (Euphorbia veneris).

Aphrodite & Adonis Nature Trail – Paphos District, Akamas Forest Nature Trail

A fantastic opportunity for hikers to take in the most sensational views of the glittering Mediterranean, Blue Lagoon, Cape Arnaoutis, Polis Chrysochous and Paphos Forest. Revel in nature’s magical beauty while hiking across Cyprus’ western peninsula featuring a chalk-white limestone coast. That’s one of the most popular walks and a great trail to fill your suitcase with beautiful memories!

The nature trail passes through the Baths of Aphrodite (Loutra tis Afroditis), where the Goddess of Love used to take her baths and met her lover, Adonis. In a short distance, hikers can admire the ruins of Queen’s Tower (Pyrgos tis Rigainas) that belong to a medieval monastery. Near the remnants of the tower, there’s a 500-year old oak tree and a faucet with drinking water.

Difficulty: Difficult.
Length: 7,5 km (circular)
Estimated duration: 3 – 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 333 m
Trailhead: Baths of Aphrodite

Insider Tip: Visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas close to the trail’s starting point and smell the sweet fragrances of colorful blossoms in the spring. Along the way, you’ll find several benches to get some rest, marvel at incredible views and unwind

Kannoures Nature Trail to Kakopetria – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

A trail located within the virgin Troodos National Forest Park – ideal for more experienced hikers. It starts at Karkotis River, crosses the magnificent Solea valley, and ends in Kakopetria. On the way, you can rest at Agios Nikolaos tis Stegischurch that boasts exquisite frescoes from the 12th century. This sacred site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage monument.

Difficulty: Difficult. Difficult downhill trail
Length: 12 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,654 m
Trailhead: The main road of Karvounas

Insider Tip: The trail is suitable for dogs, but you should keep them on a leash.

Germasogeia Dam Nature Trail (Phoinikaria) – Limassol District

A trail around a beautiful valley located just 20 minutes away from the city of Limassol. The circular route passes through the eastern hills of Limassol district, offering lovely views of Foinikaria village, the Germasogeia dam, Limassol and Akrotiri. The terrain is relatively smooth and wide but becomes fairly rocky at points, with several mild uphill and downhill pathways.

The rural scenery features olive trees, wildflowers, pine trees and indigenous wild bushes. Close to the trail, the Foinikaria picnic area provides hikers with a water supply, wooden benches to rest, and a playground for little hikers.