Kos Natural Park Zia
Discover Zia Natural Park in Kos, a serene mountain escape with stunning sunset views, charming wildlife, and tranquil gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Kos Natural Park Zia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Zia Natural Park in Kos, a serene mountain escape with stunning sunset views, charming wildlife, and tranquil gardens.
"The view is unique! I really recommend it."
🎯 Entry Fee Value
€5 entry is well worth it for the views and animal encounters! :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Lots of stairs and inclines, so wear good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Sunset Views
Top of the park
Witness the sky transform into a breathtaking canvas of colors over the Aegean Sea.
Charming Animal Encounters
Throughout the park paths
Discover a variety of local wildlife, including deers and donkeys, in a natural setting.
Tranquil Garden Ambiance
Various seating areas
Relax in hammocks or on benches amidst beautiful flowers and lush greenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Sunset Views
Accessibility and What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Entry Fee Value
€5 entry is well worth it for the views and animal encounters! :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Lots of stairs and inclines, so wear good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially for daytime visits. A snack bar is available at the top. :water_wave:
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Getting out of the parking lot can be chaotic, especially on bikes. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Entry Fee Value
€5 entry is well worth it for the views and animal encounters! :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Lots of stairs and inclines, so wear good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially for daytime visits. A snack bar is available at the top. :water_wave:
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Getting out of the parking lot can be chaotic, especially on bikes. :car:
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Find romantic spots and beautiful flowers for memorable photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Zia Natural Park's magnificent views, especially the breathtaking sunsets. The presence of cute animals and the tranquil atmosphere with hammocks and a cafe are frequently praised. While the park is beautiful and offers a unique experience, some note that it involves many stairs and can get crowded during peak times.
"An absolutely wonderful park. We visited with kids that enjoyed seeing the animals, the playground and the swings. The bar at the top is great! Staff is very kind and friendly. The view is unique! I really recommend it."
Mišo Pavlović
"A really nice place with magnificent view. It has a small amount of native animals that you can check out as you climb. A lot of stairs! If you have issues with mobility, do not attempt! This path does not go all the way to the top, but at the end of the climb there is a small romantic place to take pictures"
Necrophite78
"A very beautiful park in the village of Zia. The village alone is worth a visit. The entrance fee is 5 euros and it takes about 60 minutes to explore the park. If you love animals, you should stop by here. In the evening you also have a beautiful view of the sunset."
Lukas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Zia Natural Park by car, scooter, or bus. Many visitors opt for scooters for flexibility. Parking is available, though it can get busy, and exiting can be chaotic.
Taxis are also an option for a more direct route.
Parking is available near the park entrance, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak sunset hours. Be prepared for a short walk from your parking spot to the entrance.
Yes, public buses operate to Zia village. From the village, it's a short walk to the Natural Park entrance. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Renting a scooter or car offers the most freedom to explore Zia and other parts of Kos Island at your own pace. Many visitors enjoy the scenic drive up to the village.
The park has a paved walkway with stairs and inclines, making it a pleasant walk for most. However, it might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately €5 per person, which is considered very worthwhile by visitors for the experience.+2 Some sources mention €8 for two people.
The park is generally open during daylight hours, with extended hours to accommodate sunset viewing. It's best to check locally or upon arrival for the most current times.
Advance booking is typically not required for Zia Natural Park. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance upon arrival.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the entry fee is generally considered affordable for families.
While cash is widely accepted, some sources indicate that card payments are also possible at the top shop/cafe.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers beautiful walking paths with native animals like deer and donkeys,
+1 It's a tranquil escape with a focus on nature and views.
Yes, families with children often enjoy the park. Kids can see the animals, and there are swings for both children and adults.+1 It's a great place for a relaxed outing.
Most visitors spend about 60 minutes exploring the park, taking in the sights and enjoying the views. It's a manageable size for a leisurely stroll.
The views are magnificent, offering a unique perspective over the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscape, especially breathtaking at sunset.+2
There is a snack bar or cafe at the top of the park where you can get drinks and snacks, and enjoy the view.+1 Restroom facilities are typically available.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most magical light for photography. The vibrant colors of the sunset create stunning backdrops.+1
You can capture panoramic landscapes, close-ups of the animals, lush greenery, and the charming village atmosphere. The hammocks and swings also make for great photo opportunities.
While the sunset is spectacular, it can get crowded. Arriving early can help you find a less obstructed spot for your photos.
The highest points in the park offer the most expansive and unobstructed views, perfect for capturing the sunset and the island's panorama.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for animal photography. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The park also features swings that both children and adults can enjoy, making it a fun and interactive experience. The entrance fee is reasonable, and the snack bar at the top offers refreshments.While the park involves some stairs and inclines, it's generally manageable for most families. The paved walkways make it easier to navigate with strollers, though a carrier might be more convenient for younger children on steeper sections. It's a great way to introduce kids to nature and enjoy beautiful views together.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
If you're looking for more challenging hikes, Zia village is also the gateway to Mount Dikaios. The park itself is more about a leisurely exploration of nature and enjoying the views, rather than a demanding trek. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by natural beauty.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
To get the best shots, arrive early to secure a prime spot away from the main crowds. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture the vastness of the landscape and the intimate details of the park. The charming village of Zia also offers picturesque scenes for photographers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Zia Village
Beyond the natural park, Zia village offers a glimpse into a more traditional Kos. The atmosphere is generally relaxed during the day, becoming more vibrant in the evening as people gather for sunset. The village is also a good starting point for exploring the higher reaches of Mount Dikaios, the island's highest peak, for those seeking more adventurous hikes.
Many travelers find the village itself to be a delightful experience, with its friendly locals and authentic Greek charm. It's a place where you can truly soak in the island's culture and enjoy a slower pace of life, away from the busier coastal resorts.
Sunset Spectacle: Why Zia is Famous
To truly appreciate the sunset, arriving a couple of hours before dusk is recommended. This allows you to explore the park, find a comfortable spot, perhaps enjoy a drink from the snack bar, and witness the transition from daylight to the magical twilight. The higher you are in the park, the more expansive the view becomes, offering an unobstructed panorama.
While the sunset is a major draw, it's important to be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Some visitors suggest visiting on a weekday or arriving earlier to secure a good viewing spot. Despite the popularity, the sheer beauty of the sunset makes the experience unforgettable for most visitors.
Nature and Wildlife Encounters
+1 These encounters add a unique charm to the park experience, especially for families with children.The park is designed to be an accessible nature experience, with paved walkways that make it easy to navigate. You'll find yourself surrounded by trees, flowers, and the gentle sounds of nature. It's a refreshing contrast to the more arid landscapes found elsewhere on the island.
Beyond the animals, the park's flora is also noteworthy. Olive trees and carob trees are common sights, contributing to the tranquil and verdant atmosphere. It's a place where you can take a leisurely stroll, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the natural beauty of Kos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit