Whilst it is largely known for being a vacation resort for British and European holidaymakers, following the Turkish invasion of 1974, the Mediterranean island of Cyprus was ravaged by war before being cut in half with a UN-designated buffer zone in the middle. This zone incorporated towns, cities, airports making them abandoned ghost settlements to this day.
Our journey begins on the south side of the island and is easily reachable with a variety of budget airlines. We then cross the border into Northern Cyprus and thoroughly explore this section of the island. We’ll be sleeping in hotels and on the island’s gorgeous beaches as we explore the dark and fascinating history of this country.
We will explore the Turkish-controlled side of the island that few people see. Ghost cities, military standoffs, scandalous real-estate property, stunning beaches, and world-class ancient sites with next to no other tourists.
This tour also falls over one of the most important holidays in Northern Cyprus which is TRNC Republic Day. On 15 November 1983, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) declared its independence but so far has only gained international recognition from Turkey. The independence of TRNC has not been formally recognised by any other countries. You can expect a dazzling airshow put on by military fighter jets, an impressive military parade and an incredibly festive atmosphere throughout the streets, bars and restaurants of Kyrenia. This is truly the best day of the year to be in Northern Cyprus!
We will also be exploring the recently reopened area of Varosha: The Famagusta Ghost Town.
In the 1970s, the new town of Famagusta was one of the most visited tourist destinations in the whole world. With its extravagant high-rise hotels lined up along the sandy beaches on the east coast of Cyprus, tourists were lured by the turquoise seas, balmy sunshine and an idyllic lifestyle. However, since the 1974 invasion when the inhabitants of the city fled, the zone has sat as an abandoned buffer zone between the Greek and Turkish parts of the island and a time capsule from a bygone era. Very recently reopened to tourists, it has remained bullet-riddled and abandoned ever since.
Thursday 14th November – Nicosia
Friday 15th November – Kyrenia – TRNC National Day!
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Afternoon
Saturday 16th November – Kyrenia
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Afternoon
Sunday 17th November – Kantara
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Afternoon
Monday 18th November – Larnaca
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Afternoon
Tuesday 19th November
Want to extend your YPT adventure? Join one of our great tour extensions
• Twin-share accommodation & breakfasts
• All transportation to complete the itinerary
• All entrances & permits
• YPT guide and local guides
• Accommodation on the nights listed
• Lunch and dinners
• Single Supplement €200
• Personal expenses such as drinks and souvenirs
• Flights to and from Cyprus
• Travel insurance
We have expert guides ready to help answer any questions you may have.
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