Stavros tis Psokas (mouflon)
Encounter the rare Cyprus mouflon in its natural habitat within the serene Paphos Forest. A must-visit for wildlife lovers and nature explorers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mouflons are most active
Stavros tis Psokas (mouflon)
Best Time
Mouflons are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Encounter the rare Cyprus mouflon in its natural habitat within the serene Paphos Forest. A must-visit for wildlife lovers and nature explorers.
"A peaceful place to see Moufflons, and the road is good to get there."
🎯 Follow Road Signs
Google Maps can be unreliable; trust the official road signs to reach Stavros tis Psokas.
📸 Patience for Photos
Mouflons can be at the far end of the enclosure; walk around for the best viewing and photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cyprus Mouflon
Mouflon Enclosure
Witness the iconic Cyprus mouflon, a symbol of the island, in their naturalistic enclosure. Admire their impressive curved horns.
Paphos Forest Drive
Road to Stavros tis Psokas
Enjoy a scenic drive through the lush Paphos Forest, with stunning landscapes and towering trees. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.
Nature Trails
Surrounding Paphos Forest
Explore numerous nature trails offering opportunities for hiking and birdwatching amidst unique flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Mouflon Sightings
Navigating to Stavros tis Psokas
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Follow Road Signs
Google Maps can be unreliable; trust the official road signs to reach Stavros tis Psokas.
📸 Patience for Photos
Mouflons can be at the far end of the enclosure; walk around for the best viewing and photo opportunities.
🌳 Enjoy the Forest
The drive through Paphos Forest is beautiful; allow extra time to soak in the scenery.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
While there might be a cafe nearby, it's wise to carry your own refreshments for the journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Follow Road Signs
Google Maps can be unreliable; trust the official road signs to reach Stavros tis Psokas.
📸 Patience for Photos
Mouflons can be at the far end of the enclosure; walk around for the best viewing and photo opportunities.
🌳 Enjoy the Forest
The drive through Paphos Forest is beautiful; allow extra time to soak in the scenery.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
While there might be a cafe nearby, it's wise to carry your own refreshments for the journey.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to explore any of the surrounding nature trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the unique opportunity to see the iconic Cyprus mouflon in a beautiful forest setting. The scenic drive through Paphos Forest is also a major highlight. However, some find the mouflon enclosure itself to be small and underdeveloped, with fences that can hinder views.
"Nestled deep within the lush Paphos Forest at Stavros tis Psokas, the Mouflon Enclosure offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the life of Cyprus’s most iconic wild animal—the Cyprus mouflon (Ovis gmelini ophion). This serene sanctuary is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and families seeking a peaceful escape into the island’s mountainous heart.
The enclosure is thoughtfully designed to replicate the mouflons' natural habitat, allowing visitors to observe these majestic creatures up close as they graze and interact. It's a unique opportunity to witness the gentle bond between a mother mouflon and her lamb, as well as to admire the impressive curved horns of the dominant males. These animals, once on the brink of extinction, are now thriving thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.
The surrounding environment is equally captivating. Towering pines and plane trees envelop the area, creating a tranquil atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. The journey to the enclosure is an adventure in itself, with winding roads leading through the picturesque Paphos Forest, offering stunning vistas at every turn.
For those looking to extend their visit, the nearby Stavros tis Psokas Forest Station provides additional amenities, including picnic areas and hiking trails. It's an ideal spot to relax and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the region.
Whether you're a local resident or a traveler exploring Cyprus, the Mouflon Enclosure at Stavros tis Psokas offers a memorable and enriching experience that highlights the island's commitment to preserving its unique wildlife and natural heritage."
Saro Nadjarian
"This place of preservation of rare species of mouflons is conveniently located in the Paphos forest, besides the mouflons themselves there is a camping site with amenities nearby. Here is lots of greenery around which looks amazingly shady and refreshing"
Ekaterina S
"The mouflons are gorgeous and worth visiting but the enclosure itself is very small and depressing. The fences also block good views of the muflons. This place has so much potential and is sadly very underdeveloped and undermaintained."
George
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stavros tis Psokas is located in the Paphos Forest in the Troodos Mountains. The drive is scenic, winding through the forest. While Google Maps can be helpful, it's advisable to follow local road signs as they can be more accurate. The road is generally good, but it's a mountain route.
Yes, the road is generally accessible by car. It's a well-maintained route through the Paphos Forest, though it is a mountain road.
Follow signs for Stavros tis Psokas. If using GPS, be aware that it might not always be perfectly accurate in this remote area.
The driving time depends on your starting point, but expect a journey of at least an hour from Paphos, as you'll be driving through winding forest roads.
Public transport is very limited to this remote forest area. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or rent a car for the best experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit the Stavros tis Psokas area or the mouflon enclosure. It's a natural reserve and protected area.
The mouflon enclosure is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times posted, as it's an open natural area.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
The enclosure is typically open year-round during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check for any unexpected closures due to weather or maintenance, though this is rare.
It is not recommended to visit the mouflon enclosure at night. For safety and to respect the animals' natural behavior, visits should be during daylight hours.
📸 📸 Photography & Wildlife
The best times to see the mouflons are early in the morning and late in the afternoon when they are most active and foraging.
Cyprus mouflons are wild animals and should be observed from a distance. They are generally shy and not aggressive, but it's important not to approach or feed them. 
No, feeding the mouflons is strictly prohibited. It can disrupt their natural diet and behavior, and is harmful to their health.
A telephoto lens is recommended to capture clear shots of the mouflons from a distance within the enclosure.
While the mouflon enclosure is the main attraction, the Paphos Forest is rich in biodiversity, and you might spot various bird species and other small wildlife during your visit.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
Besides the mouflon enclosure, you can enjoy the scenic drive through Paphos Forest, explore nearby picnic areas, and hike on the nature trails.
Yes, there are picnic areas available in the vicinity of Stavros tis Psokas, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature.
There is a camping site with amenities near Stavros tis Psokas, offering a rustic experience for those who wish to stay overnight.
The area around the enclosure is relatively flat within the fenced section, but the surrounding forest has varied terrain with hiking trails.
A visit to the mouflon enclosure itself is quite short, often around 20 minutes, but you can extend your stay by enjoying the forest and picnic areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to observe the mouflons quietly and respectfully. The drive through the forest can also be an adventure in itself, with opportunities to point out different trees and listen for bird songs. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for any short walks around the area.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Plan your visit to coincide with the cooler parts of the day for a more comfortable hiking experience. The drive itself is scenic, and the forest offers a peaceful ambiance away from the bustling tourist areas. Consider bringing binoculars for better wildlife viewing and a field guide to identify local flora and fauna.
📸 Wildlife Photographers
+1Using a telephoto lens is highly recommended to get clear, detailed photos of the mouflons without disturbing them. Be prepared to spend some time observing their behavior to anticipate their movements. The scenic backdrop of the Paphos Forest can also add to the aesthetic appeal of your photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cyprus Mouflon: A Symbol of Resilience
Observing the mouflons in their semi-natural enclosure at Stavros tis Psokas offers a rare opportunity to witness their behavior up close. Visitors can see them grazing, interacting with each other, and sometimes even observe the gentle care mothers provide for their young. The enclosure is designed to mimic their natural habitat as much as possible, though some visitors note that the fences can sometimes obstruct views and the space feels limited.
Conservationists work to ensure the long-term survival of the mouflon population by managing their habitat and monitoring their health. The success story of the Cyprus mouflon is a testament to what can be achieved through focused wildlife protection initiatives, making a visit to Stavros tis Psokas not just a wildlife encounter, but also an appreciation of successful conservation in action.
Exploring the Paphos Forest
Within the Paphos Forest, visitors can find several nature trails suitable for hiking and exploring. These trails allow you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the natural surroundings, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more challenging hike, the forest offers options for various fitness levels.
Beyond the mouflon enclosure, the forest also features picnic sites and the Stavros tis Psokas Forest Station, which provides basic amenities. It's an ideal location for a leisurely day trip, combining wildlife viewing with outdoor activities and a chance to connect with nature. The drive itself, with its winding roads and panoramic views, is a significant part of the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit