Avakas Gorge Trail
Avakas Gorge Trail (Avakas Gorge / Φαράγγι του Άβακα) is a day-hike in the Pegeia State Forest, Akamas, Cyprus—mostly following the Avgas River through a narrow limestone canyon. The signature experience is the early squeeze into the gorge, then a longer walk along the streambed with shaded, cool conditions under tall rock walls.
Typical “official” options focus on a short one-way gorge walk of roughly 1.2–3 km (turnaround where you want), or longer loop variations built around reaching deeper into the canyon. Many visitors time the trip to finish the main gorge section and still have daylight for the return.
The terrain is uneven and often slippery: expect scrambling over rocky steps in and beside the stream, with frequent river crossings (wading/stepping where the water and wet stones meet the trail). Wear footwear with strong grip and be ready for conditions to change quickly if the river is carrying more water.
A key pinch point is around 1.5 km from the start, where the canyon narrows dramatically and walls rise steeply above the stream. There are also standout rock features that draw photos (including a suspended boulder wedged into the narrowest gap).
Safety and closures matter here: the trail has been subject to Forestry Department closures when rockfall risk or adverse weather conditions are elevated. Treat wet weather seriously—after heavy rain, the stream can turn into fast, surging water and rockfall/landslide risk increases.
Plan gear around the gorge environment: carry water (none is reliably available on-trail), and bring a way to stay balanced over wet, slippery rock (a hiking pole helps for streambed crossings). The gorge stays cooler than open areas, but it can still get hot outside the canyon, so pace for sun before/after.
To avoid damaging sensitive plants, stay within trail-side guidance and don’t cut around obstacles. After the hike, expect the return to still involve rocky navigation in the river corridor before you’re back on the access track.
More information: Avakas Gorge Nature Trail: A Popular Canyon Hike near ..., Avakas Gorge Nature Trail - Full Hike Guide + Free GPS Map, Avakas Gorge Hiking Trail - Cyprus Discovery