Camping tourism in Cyprus is facing a crisis as several organised campsites have shut down, leaving the once-thriving sector struggling to survive. The Movement of Ecologists-Citizens’ Cooperation, a prominent environmental political group, raised concerns this week about the decline of camping tourism, which has long been a pillar of the island’s alternative tourism offerings.
Popular sites like Polis Chrysochous, a campsite beloved by visitors for decades, have remained closed since 2023, awaiting investors for redevelopment. Meanwhile, Troodos, Cyprus’s largest organised campsite in the mountainous region, faces an uncertain future this summer. Troodos has also remained closed, and no clear plans have been made regarding its reopening.
According to the Movement of Ecologists, the remaining campsites are either closed or overcrowded, leaving few options for eco-conscious travelers who value the outdoor experience. What’s more concerning is the lack of new organized camping areas, with the rise of luxury “glamping” tourism not being well-regulated.
The group argues that Cyprus has missed an opportunity to align with the growing trend of eco-tourism and responsible travel in Europe. In light of this, the ecologists are calling for immediate intervention by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and other stakeholders to address the issue and help revive Cyprus’s camping tourism industry.
Let’s dive into the details of the crisis, why it matters, and what needs to be done to ensure that camping tourism in Cyprus has a sustainable future.
The Rise and Fall of Camping Tourism in Cyprus
Camping has traditionally been a favorite holiday activity for those seeking a more immersive and eco-friendly travel experience. For decades, Cyprus’s organised campsites attracted both locals and international visitors, offering a sustainable, affordable way to explore the island’s stunning landscapes, beaches, and mountains. However, in recent years, Cyprus’s camping tourism has been in decline.
One of the most iconic sites, Polis Chrysochous, which had been a staple for thousands of campers, has been closed since 2023. The site is currently awaiting investors and plans for redevelopment, but progress has been slow. As a result, a once-popular destination is now lying dormant, losing its charm for eco-tourism enthusiasts.
Similarly, the Troodos campsite, located in the scenic Troodos Mountains, has been hit with uncertainty. As the largest organised campsite in Cyprus’s mountain region, Troodos was an essential hub for camping tourism, offering visitors a peaceful retreat in nature. However, with no clear future plans for its operation, the site’s closure is a major blow to the local tourism industry.
The Movement of Ecologists has voiced its concerns about the failure of the Cypriot government to invest in new organized campsites or properly manage the existing ones. The result? A growing number of sites closing or becoming overcrowded, with few alternatives available for eco-conscious travelers who want a natural experience.
The Rise of ‘Glamping’ and the Decline of Traditional Camping
While traditional camping continues to face a downturn, luxury camping, or “glamping,” is on the rise. Glamping offers comforts of high-end hotels—think plush beds, air conditioning, and fully equipped kitchens—set in nature. While it’s an attractive option for many, glamping does not align with the values of traditional camping tourism, which is often based on simplicity, sustainability, and immersion in nature.
Critics, including the Movement of Ecologists, argue that unregulated glamping sites are contributing to the erosion of Cyprus’s natural beauty and environment. The group suggests that, rather than focusing solely on luxury glamping, Cyprus should be prioritizing small, environmentally harmonised camping interventions that will blend with the landscape while attracting responsible tourists.
In short, Cyprus is at a crossroads, where it could either embrace the growing demand for eco-friendly travel by investing in traditional camping or continue to allow unregulated glamping to dominate the tourism landscape.
A National Strategy for Camping Tourism
The Movement of Ecologists has called on the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and relevant stakeholders to urgently address the crisis. They’ve proposed the development of a national strategy for camping tourism, which would focus on:
- Reopening key campsites like Polis Chrysochous and Troodos
- Establishing new campsites in mountain and rural areas where eco-tourism is thriving
- Ensuring environmentally responsible development of tourism infrastructure
- Encouraging local communities to participate in tourism that highlights Cyprus’s natural beauty
One of the core goals of the strategy would be to integrate camping tourism into Cyprus’s broader tourism offerings in a way that preserves nature, supports local businesses, and attracts a new generation of travelers who care about sustainability.
Why Camping Tourism Is More Important Than Ever
Camping tourism is not just about providing an affordable accommodation option for travelers. It is a cultural practice that connects people with nature, encouraging a lifestyle that respects the environment. In recent years, travelers have become more aware of their environmental impact. As a result, many are seeking alternatives to traditional, high-energy accommodations like hotels and resorts.
By offering well-managed, eco-friendly campsites, Cyprus has the chance to attract a new demographic of eco-conscious travelers who prioritize sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Moreover, these travelers tend to spend more time in local communities, supporting small businesses and contributing to the local economy.
In addition, camping tourism can help diversify Cyprus’s tourism beyond the beach resorts and the luxury sector, making it a more well-rounded destination for travelers with varied interests.
What Needs to Be Done
To secure the future of camping tourism in Cyprus, the government must take immediate steps to:
- Reopen and revitalize existing campsites like Polis Chrysochous and Troodos
- Invest in sustainable infrastructure for new campsites that blend with the environment
- Provide incentives for local businesses to integrate eco-friendly tourism practices
- Regulate glamping and ensure it complements rather than replaces traditional camping
- Develop marketing campaigns that promote Cyprus as an eco-tourism destination
With the right strategy, Cyprus can position itself as a leader in eco-friendly tourism while preserving its natural beauty for future generations.
Final Thoughts: A Green Future for Cyprus
The current state of camping tourism in Cyprus may be in crisis, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. By embracing sustainability, investing in infrastructure, and fostering responsible tourism, the island has the potential to revive camping tourism and create a more diverse, eco-conscious travel market.
With the support of the government, local communities, and stakeholders, Cyprus can once again become a must-visit destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists—preserving its natural landscape and its tourism economy for years to come.
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