North Cyprus Hiking Trails and Beşparmak Trail
Short answer: When it comes to hiking trails in North Cyprus, the first route that comes to mind is the Beşparmak (Kyrenia Mountains) Hiking Trail, which runs for approximately 255–260 km from Koruçam Cape at the northwestern tip of the island to Zafer Burnu at the tip of Karpaz. Because the trail is divided into stages, it offers different options ranging from short day hikes to multi-day routes. The best period is between October and May; in summer, due to the heat, hiking should be limited to short routes early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
This article has been prepared for readers who live on the island or are considering living here and want to spend their weekends in nature. Rather than describing each trail one by one, we explain what kind of hiking can be done in each region, along with the seasons and safety rules. We have also covered one of the areas close to the mountains in our Esentepe area guide.
Beşparmak Hiking Trail: the backbone of the island
The Beşparmak Hiking Trail is promoted as the island’s official long-distance hiking route and is also referred to in international sources as the Kyrenia Mountain Trail. According to promotional sources, the trail consists of approximately 18 stages, starting from Koruçam Cape in the west and ending at Zafer Burnu at the tip of the Karpaz Peninsula in the east. Its total length is given in sources as between 255 and 260 km.
The trail follows the ridge of the Beşparmak Mountains, passing through points where you can see both coasts of the island and the Mediterranean at the same time. Along the way, there are castles from the Crusader period, small chapels and rural villages. Some sections are steep and rugged, while others pass through gentle hills and shallow coastlines. In the final section of the trail, you encounter the golden beaches of Karpaz and its wild donkeys.
Walking the entire trail in one go may be a goal for experienced hikers; however, most people living on the island prefer to complete the route stage by stage with weekend walks. Sadrazamköy, at the western end, is the first village through which the trail passes.
North Cyprus hiking trails by region
Hiking options in North Cyprus vary from region to region depending on the position of the mountains. Since the Beşparmak Mountains run parallel to the northern coast, those living in and around Girne/Kyrenia are closest to the mountain trails.
Girne/Kyrenia and surroundings: hillside villages and castles
The mountain slopes south of Girne/Kyrenia allow for short and medium-length walks via villages such as Bellapais. The routes leading up to the medieval castles on the mountain ridge are popular for both scenery and history enthusiasts. The elevation difference on these routes is significant; good footwear and sufficient water are essential.
Esentepe and Tatlısu: between the mountains and the sea
East of Girne/Kyrenia, the strip between the mountains and the sea widens, making both hillside and coastal walks possible. From Tatlısu eastwards, the Kaplıca coastline and the mountain road leading to Kantara Castle are among the nearby options for weekend trips. We have also described the area in our Tatlısu area guide.
İskele, Long Beach and Kantara
For those living on the east coast, the nearest mountain route is Kantara. It takes approximately 35–45 minutes by car from Long Beach to Kantara Castle; the mountain road brings scenery and hiking together. On the coast, Long Beach’s long sandy shore is an ideal flat route for morning and evening walks, especially in winter.
Karpaz: national park and untouched coasts
The Karpaz Peninsula is the island’s wildest region for hiking. The national park area, wide beaches such as Altınkum and wild donkeys are symbols of the region. However, services on the peninsula are limited; for long hikes, water, food and the return plan should be prepared in advance.
An escape from Lefkoşa/Nicosia
For those living in Lefkoşa/Nicosia, the southern slopes of the Beşparmak Mountains and the mountain villages on the road to Girne/Kyrenia are hiking areas that can be reached from the city in a short time. Considering the summer heat in Lefkoşa/Nicosia, these routes are especially valuable in spring and autumn.
| Route type | Region | Difficulty | Best period | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long-distance stages | Beşparmak Trail (Koruçam–Zafer Burnu) | Moderate–hard | October–May | Stage planning and return transport are required |
| Castle and hillside routes | South of Girne/Kyrenia, Kantara | Moderate | October–May | Elevation difference is significant |
| Coastal walk | Long Beach, Gazimağusa/Famagusta–Salamis coast | Easy | November–April | Early morning hours in summer |
| Nature and national park | Karpaz, around Altınkum | Easy–moderate | March–May, October–November | Services are limited, bring water |
| Village walks | Bellapais, Büyükkonuk, western villages | Easy | Year-round (short in summer) | Together with local culture |
The table is a general guide; the level of difficulty varies according to the section you choose, weather conditions and your fitness. Times are approximate values.
Best season: when to hike?
The best period for hiking in North Cyprus is from October to May. During this period, daytime temperatures are suitable for walking and the mountains turn green with winter rains.
- October–November: The summer heat is left behind; the average daytime temperature in Girne/Kyrenia is around 27 °C in October and 23 °C in November.
- December–February: These are the rainiest months of the year; in Girne/Kyrenia, average monthly rainfall in December and January is over 100 mm. After rainy days, trails can be slippery and muddy.
- March–May: This is when nature is at its most vibrant; wildflowers and mild weather are ideal for hiking.
- June–September: In July and August, daytime temperatures are around 33 °C on the coast and 37 °C inland. Avoid long hikes during this period; do short routes at sunrise or close to sunset.
For the full monthly temperature and rainfall table, see our article on Cyprus climate and seasons.
Making hiking part of daily life
The advantage of living on the island is that hiking can stop being an activity done once on holiday and become a weekly habit. Thanks to short distances, someone living in Girne/Kyrenia can take a one-hour hillside walk before work in the morning, someone living in Long Beach can walk on the beach at sunset, and someone living in Lefkoşa/Nicosia can go up to the mountains on a weekend morning and return home by noon.
Many residents prefer to combine walking with local culture. A route that starts in a village can be completed with a stop at the village coffeehouse and shopping for local products; during festival periods, it is also possible to join events in the village square after the walk. Villages known for eco-tourism, such as Büyükkonuk, or historic hillside villages such as Bellapais are natural starting points for these kinds of routes.
If you want to prepare for long stages, the best approach is to progress gradually: first start with short walks on the coast and flat terrain, then move on to hillside routes, and finally to the long stages of the Beşparmak Trail. This approach both reduces the risk of injury and allows you to discover the island’s different faces step by step.
Hiking safety and preparation
Some of the trails in North Cyprus are marked, but you should not assume that the markings are consistent in every section. Hiking prepared increases both your safety and your enjoyment.
- Plan the route in advance: Determine the stage length, starting and ending points, and return transport. For one-way stages, make a vehicle or transfer plan.
- Bring enough water: It is not always possible to find a water source on mountain routes. On hot days, you will need more than you expect.
- Phone and map: Mobile coverage may weaken in mountainous sections. Download an offline map and inform someone of your route.
- Proper equipment: Carry sturdy-soled shoes for rocky and steep trails, a hat, sunscreen and a light raincoat.
- Respect nature: The risk of forest fires is high in the summer months; do not light fires or leave cigarette butts behind. Follow the rules in turtle nesting areas and inside the national park.
- Emergency: In Northern Cyprus (TRNC), call 112 in emergencies. Remember that it may take time for help to reach remote areas.
Choosing a location and home for hiking enthusiasts
If hiking is at the centre of your lifestyle, the distance of your home from mountain trails should also be one of your selection criteria. The eastern and western hillside villages of Girne/Kyrenia, Esentepe and Tatlısu are the closest areas to the mountains; in hillside villages such as Bellapais, it is possible to step out of your door and start walking.
For those living on the east coast, the Long Beach shoreline is for daily walks, while Kantara and Karpaz are weekend routes. Those living in Lefkoşa/Nicosia can reach the mountains in about half an hour, but due to the summer heat, outdoor activity in the city remains limited. We have also covered outdoor life on the east coast in our article on Long Beach beach and social life.
Hiking is also a social bridge for newcomers to the island. Groups that hike regularly from autumn to spring are one of the most enjoyable ways to meet new people and discover the island.
Frequently asked questions
How many kilometres is the Beşparmak Hiking Trail?
Sources give the length of the trail as approximately 255–260 km. The route starts from Koruçam Cape at the northwestern tip of the island and ends at Zafer Burnu at the tip of Karpaz, and according to promotional sources consists of approximately 18 stages. Check current stage information from official promotional sources.
What is the best month for hiking in North Cyprus?
The most suitable period is between October and May. October–November and March–May stand out with mild weather and green nature. December–February are the rainiest months of the year and trails may be slippery. In July–August, long hikes should be avoided because of the heat.
Can you hike in North Cyprus in summer?
It is possible, but it should be kept limited. In July and August, daytime temperatures are around 33 °C on the coast and 37 °C inland. Do short routes at sunrise or close to sunset, carry plenty of water and do not light fires due to the risk of forest fires.
Are the hiking trails marked?
Some of the trails are marked, but you should not assume that the markings are consistent in every section. Plan the route in advance, download an offline map and take into account that mobile coverage may weaken in mountainous areas. Be sure to tell someone your route.
Which area is suitable for living close to hiking?
The closest areas to mountain trails are the hillside villages of Girne/Kyrenia, Esentepe and Tatlısu. Those living on the east coast use the Long Beach shoreline for daily walks and Kantara and Karpaz as weekend routes. The mountains can be reached from Lefkoşa/Nicosia in about half an hour.
If you are looking for a living space close to nature and hiking routes, you can contact the Akol Global team to evaluate the options together.
This article is for informational purposes only; it does not replace legal, tax or financial advice. Last updated: October 2026.