Cyprus tourism targets mountain growth to offset recent sector decline

Cyprus is working to stabilize its tourism sector and expand its appeal through inland and mountain tourism. Deputy Minister for Tourism Kostas Koumis reported that while the sector faced a significant crisis following a drone strike on the UK base at Akrotiri on March 1, the decline in tourism for the first seven months of 2026 has been limited to 8%. This is an improvement from earlier projections of an 18% decline, and officials estimate the year-end decline may settle around 5%.

The crisis initially caused approximately 70% of flight schedules in Cyprus to be cancelled indefinitely. However, government efforts to persuade airlines and tour operators to maintain schedules have been deemed successful.

To strengthen the industry, the government is investing in mountain and rural tourism, specifically targeting the Troodos region to encourage year-round visitation. The National Tourism Strategy 2035 emphasizes nature, cultural, and outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, to spread visitor flows inland and support local communities. The Deputy Ministry is also collaborating with the Forestry Department to improve infrastructure and has introduced national standards for the management of hiking trails.