Cyprus International Orienteering Festival 2026 — Larnaca and Nicosia

The 4th Cyprus International Orienteering Festival will take place in the Republic of Cyprus from March 18–22, 2026, in the Larnaca and Nicosia regions, featuring 5 separate stages over 5 days. Preliminary program: March 18 — Delikipos; March 19 — Aetomoutti Northeast; March 20 — Aetomoutti Southwest; March 21 — Sia/Mathiatis; March 22 — Nicosia Old City with the start and finish at Eleftheria Square. Participation requires paid online registration; conditions and classes are determined by the organizers.

• Official Links and Contacts
• Dates, Locations, Format
• Daily Schedule
• Registration and Classes
• Event Centre and Accommodation
• Logistics: How to Get There and What to Consider
• How to Participate
• Glossary
• Frequently Asked Questions

Official Links and Contacts

• Cyprus International Orienteering Festival
• Preliminary Programme
• Online Registration
• Organizer Email (for participation inquiries): [email protected]
• Hotels and Accommodation

Dates, Locations, Format

Daily Schedule

Below is the preliminary program. Times and specific details (exact start points, parking schemes, restrictions) are usually finalized closer to the event date.

Registration and Classes

Participation involves paid registration via OrienteeringOnline. The competition entry form lists registration deadlines (as milestones for registration phases): January 10, 2026, February 28, 2026, and March 16, 2026. For a full list of classes (age groups and open) and current participation conditions, please refer to the registration page.

Important to Check Before Paying

• Which class fits your age and skill level;
• Which days you will be running (all 5 or specific ones);
• Whether you need to rent a SportIdent chip or will use your own;
• Race rules and punching procedures (including penalties/disqualification).

Event Centre and Accommodation

The organizers specify an Event Centre (communication/information hub) and accommodation options with negotiated rates. To stay close to the festival logistics, Event Centre hotels are often preferred.

If booking accommodation independently, it is most convenient to stay in Larnaca for the first days (March 18–20) and in Nicosia for the final events (March 21–22). To compare local accommodation options and budgets, you can check hotels and apartments in advance.

Logistics: How to Get There and What to Consider

Getting Between Starts

Since the start areas change, a car is practically essential for ease of reaching the morning start locations and avoiding dependence on limited rural public transport. If you are arriving without a car, plan your transport in advance; one option is car rental for the festival dates.

Weather and Gear

In March, the weather in the Republic of Cyprus can be unpredictable: forest and mountain start zones are often cooler and damper than the city. A practical kit includes: a windbreaker, a change of dry clothes for after the race, shoes with good grip, and a water supply.

Nicosia: Final Sprint

On the day of the city sprint (Eleftheria Square), allow extra time for parking and potential traffic restrictions. If you wish to combine the trip with a city tour, you can choose a route or excursion format beforehand: walks and excursions.

How to Participate

1. Open the OrienteeringOnline registration page and select your classes/days of participation.
2. Check the registration phases by date and payment terms, then submit your entry.
3. Save your registration confirmation and follow updates on the festival website (schedules, start points, parking).
4. Decide on your base of stay: Larnaca for the March 18–20 races and Nicosia for March 21–22 (or one city if you are prepared for daily travel).
5. Pack gear for variable March weather and prepare a transportation plan for each morning.

Glossary

• Orienteering — a sport where participants use a map and compass to find control points in a specific order.
• Control / Control Point — a feature on the terrain that must be "punched" in the correct sequence.
• SportIdent — an electronic punching system for control points (using a chip/stations).
• Event Centre — the festival's base for information, socializing, and organizational matters (often located at a hotel).
• Extended Sprint — a city sprint longer than the standard sprint distance, focusing on speed and navigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Cyprus Orienteering Festival 2026 take place?

March 18–22, 2026, in the Larnaca and Nicosia regions (Republic of Cyprus).

How many races are included in the festival?

5 starts over 5 days (each day is a separate event).

Is registration required, and can I run only on certain days?

Paid online registration is typically required. The ability to participate in only some of the days depends on the organizer's rules and the chosen category.

Where is the final city race held?

In Nicosia: Nicosia Old City (extended sprint) with the start and finish at Eleftheria Square.

Can beginners participate?

Usually, the list of classes includes "Open" categories and simpler course options, but specific conditions should be verified on the registration page and in the organizer's documents.