As the sun rises over the azure waters of the Mediterranean, Cavo Greco National Forest Park comes alive with promise and adventure. Located just a short drive from the bustling town of Ayia Napa, ...
National Park3,0004+ Trails
1992NATIONAL PARK
Designation
National Park
Total Wilderness Area
3,000
Elevation / Terrain
Diverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide
About Cavo Greco National Park
Cavo Greco National Park is a coastal protected area in southeastern Cyprus, renowned for its dramatic sea cliffs, clear blue waters, and rich biodiversity, offering visitors spectacular hiking and snorkeling opportunities.
Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cavo Greco National Park is located at the southeastern tip of Cyprus, near the resort town of Ayia Napa. The park covers a rugged promontory featuring towering limestone cliffs, sea caves, and unique rock formations shaped by millennia of wind and wave erosion. The area is notable for its turquoise waters and underwater caves that attract divers and snorkelers. Vegetation is predominantly Mediterranean scrubland with endemic plant species adapted to the dry, salty environment. The park offers a network of well-marked coastal trails, including routes along cliff edges with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The history of the area includes ancient archeological sites, as well as legends tied to its natural landmarks. Wildlife in the park includes various seabirds, reptiles, and occasional sightings of migrant marine mammals. Visitors come here to hike, birdwatch, explore coastal caves, and photograph the stunning landscape. Due to its ecological significance, the park is a Ramsar site, protecting numerous marine and terrestrial habitats. The combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and ease of access from nearby towns makes Cavo Greco a popular destination year-round.
Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations
Notable Destinations Near Cavo Greco National Park
Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.
Key Wilderness Highlights
✦ Sea Caves of Cavo Greco - striking natural caverns with turquoise waters✦ The Coastal Cliff Hiking Trail - scenic walks along high limestone cliffs✦ Kalypso Cave - a famous cave with archaeological and mythological significance✦ Cape Greco Lighthouse - panoramic viewpoint and historic lighthouse site
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery
Visual Guide to Cavo Greco National Park
Wilderness Recreation
Outdoor Adventures in Cavo Greco National Park
Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.
Activity Field GuideCavo Greco National Park
Diving in Cavo Greco National Park
Exploring Cavo Greco National Forest Park: An Underwater Odyssey in Ayia Napa, Cyprus
As the sun rises over the azure waters of the Mediterranean, Cavo Greco National Forest Park comes alive with promise and adventure. Located just a short drive from the bustling town of Ayia Napa, this coastal gem invites outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike to embark on a diving experience like no other. With its pristine underwater ecosystems, stunning cliffs, and rich marine biodiversity, Cavo Greco is not just a destination; it’s a vibrant invitation to explore the depths.
As you approach the park, the salty sea breeze brushes against your skin, carrying with it the faintest echo of waves lapping against golden shores. Cavo Greco stretches along the southeastern coast of Cyprus, where rugged cliffs meet crystal-clear waters, creating a natural playground for divers of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner eager to explore the wonders beneath the surface or an experienced diver hunting for elusive marine life, this park serves as your perfect launching point.
The diving spots in Cavo Greco are remarkably diverse. Imagine descending into tranquil waters, where the sun's rays filter down, illuminating ancient rock formations and vibrant coral reefs. Here, the ocean floor transforms into a bustling metropolis of fish and sea creatures darting in and out of crevices. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful movements of Mediterranean fish—anemones wave softly, while octopuses reveal their hidden homes.
The underwater topography is a spectacular blend of caves, tunnels, and drop-offs, providing both challenges and rewards. Take the time to navigate through underwater caverns, where shadows conceal treasures of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of species, from the ubiquitous damselfish to the majestic sea turtles gliding gracefully by. The thrill of the dive is accompanied by the surrounding serenity of this national park, as you become part of a delicate ecosystem that thrives in its protected waters.
Planning your dive in Cavo Greco requires consideration, but rest assured, the rewards are plentiful. It's essential to check the weather and water conditions before venturing out, as the Mediterranean can be temperamental. Morning dives often provide the best visibility, so early starts are recommended. Ensure you have the proper gear—wetsuits, masks, and fins should be comfortable and in good condition, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the underwater world without distraction.
Hydration is key, even underwater adventurers need to remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Nearby, you’ll find picnic areas and spots where you can refuel after your explorations. The park’s facilities are designed to accommodate visitors, with restrooms and designated zones for diving instruction, making it accessible for those new to the sport.
As you surface from your dive, the thrill of what you've witnessed washes over you. Take a moment to bask in the beauty of your surroundings. The rugged cliffs, adorned with resilient flora, stand tall against the horizon, serving as a reminder of nature’s enduring strength. Hiking trails weave through the park, offering additional ways to explore this stunning landscape after your underwater adventure.
Cavo Greco National Forest Park is more than just a diving destination; it's a celebration of Cyprus’ natural beauty. With immersive experiences above and below water, it beckons you to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to capture the journey—the stunning views, the laughter shared above water, and the silent awe experienced below the waves. As the sun sets, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, you'll leave with a sense of fulfillment, excited to share your adventures with those who yearn to explore the wild wonders of Cavo Greco.
Other Available Activity Guides in Cavo Greco National Park:
Park Recreation
Wildlife Viewing
Available in Cavo Greco National Park
Park Recreation
Birdwatching
Available in Cavo Greco National Park
Park Recreation
Sightseeing
Available in Cavo Greco National Park
Park Recreation
Rock Climbing
Available in Cavo Greco National Park
Park Recreation
Picnicking
Available in Cavo Greco National Park
Park Recreation
Guided Nature Tours
Available in Cavo Greco National Park
The Ranger Station
Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning
Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cavo Greco National Park.
Passes & Fees
Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes
Free public access with no permits required.
Wilderness Checklist
Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps
Gateway Towns Near Cavo Greco National Park
Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.
⌖ 2.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp
Ayia Napa, Ammochostos, Cyprus
Ayia Napa, Cyprus, offers crystal-clear waters, scenic coastal trails, and thrilling adventures like scuba diving, sea kayaking, and cliff jumping. Ideal for outdoor lovers seeking vibrant seaside excitement and natural beauty.
Ayia Napa is a coastal hub of adventure with activities from snorkeling to hiking amidst stunning Mediterranean landscapes. Discover vibrant marine life and enjoy scenic trails along the turquoise coast.
Pernera, Famagusta is a sunlit coastal town where snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking combine with golden beaches and rugged cliffs for a Mediterranean outdoor adventure.
Protaras is a coastal paradise perfect for sea adventures and beach enthusiasts. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, and more amidst its stunning landscapes and clear waters.
Protaras, Cyprus, offers an unbeatable mix of coastal adventure and scenic hiking. From cliff diving in crystal waters to kayaking around Cape Greco’s sea caves, it’s an outdoor lover’s Mediterranean sanctuary.
Avgorou in Famagusta, Cyprus, is a peaceful destination for hikers, cyclists, and birders looking to enjoy unspoiled countryside and Mediterranean coastlines. Its mild trails and cultural charm make it a great base for outdoor adventure lovers.
A long-running, half-day cruise from Ayia Napa that visits sea caves, the Blue Lagoon and Konnos Bay with two 50-minute swim stops and freshly cooked lunch onboard.
A concise, supervised PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience in Protaras that teaches you to use scuba equipment in shallow water—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and who should skip it.
A relaxed 4-hour cruise from Golden Coast Harbor along the Protaras coast aboard the traditional wooden boat Aerosa, with multiple swim stops, coastal sightseeing, and a Cypriot buffet.
Two guided shore dives from Easy Divers in Protaras explore Cape Greco National Park’s caves, bays and reefs where turtles, morays and colorful reef life gather.
At Taba Diving Centre in Protaras, Cyprus, the Assistant Instructor program—offered as a 4–5 day intensive or a two‑month internship—gives divers hands‑on experience teaching, supervising dives, and running PADI programs.
A three-day PADI Advanced Open Water course that covers five dives—including deep and navigation dives—with options such as wreck and night diving; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
A PADI Divemaster course run from Protaras by Taba Diving Centre, offered as a 2-week intensive or a 2-month internship—this guide explains what the programs cover and what to expect.
A full‑day (8‑hour) PADI Enriched Air Diver course in Protaras that teaches how to extend no‑decompression limits so you can lengthen repetitive dives and spend more time underwater.
A concentrated, 4-day PADI Open Water Diver course that moves beginners through knowledge sessions, pool skill practice and supervised open-water dives.
A concise two‑day, entry‑level program that teaches essential scuba skills, grants a pre‑entry certification and lets you dive to 12 m under professional supervision — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course in Protaras covers five core adventure dives, including a deep and navigation dive, and finishes with an Enriched Air specialty; this guide lays out the course structure and logistics.
A focused, three-hour guided dive from Taba Diving Centre that takes certified divers (ages 12+) through 93 submerged sculptures at the MUSAN park in Ayia Napa.