Where is the largest cave located in Northern Cyprus?
Incirli Cave is located in the Çınarlı area, approximately 2 km southeast of the village, on the road towards Karpaz. For a visit in 2026, aim for the 08:00–15:00 schedule; based on current data, the cave is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays. The entrance fee is 50 TL for adults and 20 TL for students. The section open to visitors is about 70 m long, so a tour usually takes 20–30 minutes. It is wise to check availability by phone before your trip, as the visiting hours for this location change more frequently than those of city museums.
- What kind of cave is it
- What makes it remarkable
- Opening hours and cost
- How to get there
- Tips before visiting
- Useful services
- Frequently asked questions
What kind of cave is it
Incirli Cave, or İncirli Mağarası, is considered the largest cave in Northern Cyprus and one of the most notable natural locations in the eastern part of the island. It is located in the Çınarlı district and earned its name from the fig tree (incir) at the entrance.
The cave was formed in gypsum rock. This is why its interior surface differs from more common limestone caves: the walls, ceilings, and formations appear lighter here, and some sections resemble crystal or "flower-like" structures.
What makes it remarkable
The total length of the cave is about 250–311 m according to various descriptions, but only a portion of the route—approximately 70 m—is equipped for viewing. This is enough to see the main halls, vaults, flowstone forms, and characteristic gypsum formations.
Inside, there are stalactites, stalagmites, and soft white deposits that create an unusual relief. The illuminated zone is relatively compact, making a trip here easy to combine with other points on the route—for example, with Kantara Castle or a trip towards Karpaz, where you can see wild donkeys.
Opening hours and cost
According to updated data, it is more convenient to plan your trip around the following visiting schedule.
| Parameter | Current Data | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Opening hours | 08:00–15:00 | Better to confirm by phone before departure |
| Days closed | Monday, Wednesday | The schedule may change during holidays |
| Adult entrance | 50 TL | Usually paid on-site |
| Student entrance | 20 TL | Better to have a supporting document |
| Accessible route part | about 70 m | The full length of the cave is longer |
| Tour time | 20–30 minutes | Without long stops or photo breaks |
To clarify the visiting schedule, you can contact the caretakers or use the municipal contact:
- +90 533 844 17 55
- +90 533 868 93 29
- +90 392 373 33 47 — Geçitkale Municipality
How to get there
The cave is located in the Çınarlı area, towards Karpaz. Public transport does not go directly to the entrance, so it is most practical to go by car. The last section of the route usually follows a local road, and the entrance itself is easy to miss without navigation, as it is partially hidden by a tree and the terrain.
If you are driving from Lefkoşa, the route is usually built through Geçitkale. From Famagusta, the road also passes through the inner part of the island and takes less time than from western districts. The trip is convenient to combine with other natural and historical locations in eastern Northern Cyprus.
How to do it
- Plan your route to the village of Çınarlı and check your mobile connection in advance.
- Before leaving, check if the cave is open on the day of your visit using one of the phone numbers above.
- Take cash in TL, as card payments may not be available at such locations.
- Schedule your visit for the morning or early afternoon while the standard entrance hours apply.
- After the tour, if you wish, continue your route towards Karpaz or Kantara Castle.
Tips before visiting
For the visit, it is better to wear closed shoes with non-slip soles. It can be cooler inside than outside, so a light sweater will be appropriate even in the warm season.
A flashlight is not mandatory in the illuminated area but can be useful as a backup. It also makes sense to bring water in advance: service infrastructure near the entrance is limited.
The location is suitable for a short stop along the way, rather than a long separate half-day itinerary. Therefore, the most convenient format is a combined trip with 2–3 points in this part of Northern Cyprus.
Useful services
If you want to look at activities and excursions for a trip around the island in advance, you can check the options on GetYourGuide.
If you need tickets for museums and attractions at other points on the route and want to receive them on your phone, you can check Tiqets.
If you need internet via eSIM without a monthly fee for your trip, you can check Drimsim.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Incirli Cave located in Northern Cyprus?
The cave is located in the Çınarlı area, about 2 km from the village, on the road towards Karpaz.
How much does it cost to enter Incirli Cave?
According to updated data, the entrance costs 50 TL for adults and 20 TL for students.
When is the best time to come?
It is more practical to arrive in the morning or early afternoon, as the standard visiting window is limited until 15:00.
Can I get there without a car?
Theoretically, part of the journey can be covered by transport to the nearest settlements, but for the cave itself, a car is more convenient as there is no direct public transport route to the entrance.
How long does the tour take?
The main route usually takes 20–30 minutes. A visit takes longer only in the case of photo breaks or a combined trip around the surroundings.
Is the cave suitable for a trip with children?
For a short visit, yes, provided the shoes are comfortable and the children are comfortable in cool and not very spacious areas. It is better to move without haste on-site.
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