AN INCLUSIVE SOCIETY
REDUCED MOBILITY GROUPS
Reduced mobility in Cyprus not only includes wheelchair users, but also those who do not possess the ability to move around freely, easily, or without pain. This includes those who have temporary or permanent physical disabilities, sensory or intellectual impairments, and older people who have problems negotiating stairs or standing for long periods.
ONGOING EUROPEAN INITIATIVES
These groups often require environmental adaptations or specialised assistance, and although the Republic of Cyprus is constantly following ongoing European initiatives designed to help these groups, they still face mixed overall conditions across the island. Whilst nearly all tourist hubs now offer modern ramps with wide pavements, and most establishments there offer accessible experiences tailored for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility, rural towns and villages, with older infrastructure, often lack accessibility for these groups.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
The island’s public transport system is also currently challenging for these groups. Although public BUSES in all major cities are equipped with ramps, rural routes and intercity coach services can be inconsistent. This currently makes accessible taxis and rental vehicles necessary, and several private companies, across the island, because of this, offer specialised vehicles with platform lifts for accessible day-tripping.
AIRPORTS
BEACHES
Cyprus features several fully and partly accessible beaches. Some of these utilise the SEATRAK system. This solar-powered track is used to help glide people with reduced mobility directly into the water. Designated beaches also include amphibious floating wheelchairs, accessible changing rooms, and adapted restrooms.
SIGHTSEEING
Major historical and cultural sites are continually upgrading their facilities with reduced mobility in mind. As a result, the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos and the CYPRUS ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM in Nicosia are both wheelchair accessible, featuring adapted pathways, ramps, and elevators.
MOBILITY EQUIPMENT HIRE
Mobility scooters or wheelchairs can be hired from several local providers across the island. These generally offer equipment rental with direct delivery.
Click here for mobility hire across Cyprus
