There are fewer and fewer places for camping in Cyprus

This summer, it has become significantly more difficult for camping enthusiasts in Cyprus to find an official campsite. With several popular sites closed, many holidaymakers fear they will be forced to pitch their tents in prohibited areas.

Campsites in Polis Chrysochous and Platres are currently undergoing reconstruction, while the future of the site near Troodos Square remains uncertain. The Forestry Department explains the closures as necessary to modernize the infrastructure and improve fire safety.

According to department representative Glafkos Kyriakou, many campsites no longer meet modern requirements. Following the reconstruction, they will have new sanitary facilities, improved fire-protection systems, and clearly designated areas for tents, motorhomes and cars.

However, environmentalists warn that the reduction in the number of official campsites could have the opposite effect. In their view, people will increasingly seek out unorganized sites, increasing the risk of forest fires, environmental pollution and harm to wildlife.

The organizations Cyprus Greens and Friends of the Earth Cyprus believe that the state should not only ban “wild” camping, but also provide a sufficient number of affordable, legal and well-equipped recreational sites.

The development of private campsites remains an additional problem. According to the deputy minister of tourism, investors are in no hurry to open new facilities because of high land prices, environmental restrictions and difficulties in obtaining permits.

Nature lovers point out that most tourists do not need expensive glamping sites. All they need is a safe place to pitch a tent, toilets, water, rubbish containers and clear fire-safety rules.