Jeep Safari Troodos – Kykkos monastery Waterfall and Venetian bridge from PAPHOS

Discover the Troodos Mountains with a Jeep Safari from Paphos

Looking to get off the beach and into the countryside? This Jeep Safari from Paphos takes you into the heart of Cyprus’s mountain scenery, with a lively guide leading the way. For around $80.25 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours, you’ll visit Kykkos Monastery, Chantara Waterfall, the Venetian Bridge, and even dip into Aphrodite’s Rock. Plus, the small group size—capped at 12—means you’ll get a more personal experience, with plenty of time to soak in the sights and ask questions.

Two things make this trip really stand out: first, the knowledge and humor of the guides, who keep things engaging and informative, and second, the stunning mountain views you’ll enjoy from the rugged terrain of the Troodos range. Be prepared for some off-road adventures and a chance to explore remote locations that are hard to access on your own.

A possible consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of driving and some short stops, which may feel rushed if you’re looking for a more leisurely, in-depth visit to each site. Also, if you’re not comfortable in a jeep or have mobility issues, the ride might be a bit bumpy. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a combination of scenic highlights, cultural visits, and a sense of adventure. It’s perfect for those eager to see Cyprus’s interior beyond the usual beach days.

Key Points

• Scenic highlights: The trek through the Troodos Mountains offers breathtaking views and remote locations.
• Expert guides: Guides like Filipos and Mario are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.
• Small group size: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Varied stops: From waterfalls and ancient bridges to monasteries and beaches, there’s a good mix.
• Value for money: Includes all fees, hotel pickup, and a wine tasting, making it a comprehensive day out.
• Potential for short stops: Some reviews mention the stops can be brief, so it might feel a little rushed.

A Deep Dive into the Jeep Safari Experience

The Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

This tour begins early at 8:00 am, with hotel pickups in an air-conditioned jeep, a thoughtful touch that saves you from the hassle of navigating Cyprus’s roads. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group feels small enough to foster conversations and personalized attention, but large enough to avoid feeling cramped.

The day is structured to give you a taste of Cyprus’s natural beauty, history, and culture without the fatigue of self-driving or overlong bus rides. The small group size ensures the guide, who’s often praised for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, can tailor some experiences and answer questions freely.

Itinerary Breakdown: Why Each Stop Matters

Asprokremmos Dam

Your journey starts at Asprokremmos Dam, Cyprus’s second-largest reservoir. Sitting about 100 meters above sea level, it’s an important wetland for birds—something birdwatchers will appreciate. Reviewers mention that the dam “not really interesting” but find the scenery pleasant, and the wildlife watching opportunity a small bonus. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, enough to snap a few photos and appreciate the scale of Cyprus’s water infrastructure.

Tzelefos Venetian Bridge

Next, you’ll visit the Tzelefos Bridge, the largest stone bridge in Cyprus, spanning the Diarizos river. Surrounded by lush greenery and forest, it’s the perfect spot for photos or a quick walk. Travelers often mention that this site is beautiful but note that the 30-minute stop can feel a bit brief, especially if you enjoy exploring. The bridge’s historical charm and natural setting make it a favorite among visitors.

Chantara Waterfall

Moving into the countryside, you’ll encounter the Chantara Waterfall. Named after the sound of rushing water (“anatra” means “water noise”), it drops about eight meters into a small pond, creating a dramatic and peaceful scenery. The surrounding scent of pine, lavender, sage, and other herbs makes this stop aromatic and refreshing. Many reviewers highlight it as a highlight of the trip, with one calling it “wonderful,” although some wish for more time to enjoy it.

Mount Olympus (Chionistra)

The highest point on the island at 1,952 meters, Mount Olympus is a dramatic landscape feature. The view from the top is incredible, and in winter, there’s a chance of snow and even a ski resort. The 10-minute stop is brief, but it leaves you with a memorable image of how varied Cyprus’s geography is. It’s a reminder that the island isn’t just about beaches—mountains and snow-capped peaks exist too.

Kykkos Monastery

No trip to Cyprus is complete without a visit to the Kykkos Monastery, one of the most famous and wealthiest monasteries on the island. Founded in the 11th century, it contains intricate mosaics and icons, and offers an insight into Orthodox Christian traditions. With a 40-minute visit, you’ll have time to explore, absorb the atmosphere, and perhaps buy some souvenirs. Reviewers often highlight the stunning interior and the peaceful environment, making it a truly special stop.

Omodos Village and Wine Tasting

The charming village of Omodos offers a glimpse into rural Cypriot life, with narrow streets, traditional houses, and a lively village square. Visitors love wandering its streets, tasting local art and crafts, and visiting the True Cross Monastery. The wine tasting at Zenon Winery—included in the tour—receives high praise, with travelers describing it as “really nice” and “great fun.” The 30-minute stop allows enough time to explore and sample.

Aphrodite’s Rock

Finally, the tour concludes at Aphrodite’s Rock, legendary birthplace of the goddess of love. The foam around the rocks makes for a picturesque scene, and many visitors enjoy a swim or just relaxing on the beach. This stop is 30 minutes long, giving you a chance to dip your toes in the Mediterranean, enjoy the scenery, and reflect on the day.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The guides stand out as a key highlight, with reviews praising Filipos, Mario, and others for being knowledgeable, funny, and accommodating. Their insights added depth to each stop, making the experience more engaging than just ticking off sites.

The scenery throughout the trip is truly stunning, especially the mountain views, waterfalls, and ancient bridges. Many reviewers mention that the drive itself is beautiful, and the off-road sections add a sense of adventure.

The wine tasting at Zenon Winery is also a hit—reviewers appreciate how it complements the day, offering a relaxed way to experience local culture.

One drawback some travelers mention is that stops can feel rushed, especially when the itinerary is packed with many sites. A few travelers note that more time at certain locations—like the dam or village—would enhance the experience. The short duration at some stops means you might not fully explore each site, which could be frustrating if you’re a slow explorer.

The transportation is generally comfortable, but the jeep ride can be bumpy, especially on unpaved mountain roads. If you’re prone to motion sickness or have mobility issues, this is worth considering.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Jeep Safari is perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and small-group intimacy. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see the interior of Cyprus without the hassle of self-driving, and who appreciate stories, humor, and local insights from guides.

Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find value here, especially if you’re eager to explore beyond the coast. If you’re a nature lover or curious about Cyprus’s rural life, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s diverse landscape and history.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

For $80.25, this tour offers a comprehensive day of exploring Cyprus’s mountains, waterfalls, monasteries, and villages with all fees included and hotel pickup—making it a great deal for a full-day adventure. The small group size and highly praised guides make it a memorable, personalized experience that balances scenic beauty with cultural insight.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a leisurely pace or a deep dive into each site, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a dynamic, fun, and informative day out that covers a lot of ground without the stress of planning.

If you love stunning views, engaging guides, and authentic locations, this Jeep Safari from Paphos is likely to hit the mark. Just keep in mind the short stops and the rugged ride—embrace the adventure, and you’ll come away with lasting memories of Cyprus’s mountain marvels.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is included in the tour, making it easy to start your day without extra transportation concerns.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, allowing plenty of time to visit all the key sites and enjoy the scenery.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, offering a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are all fees and taxes included?
Yes, all fees and taxes are included in the price, plus the wine tasting at Zenon Winery.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Omodos or other stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor exploration, and sturdy shoes for walking and potential uneven terrain.

Is it suitable for all mobility levels?
The jeep ride can be bumpy, and some stops are brief, so it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer more relaxed pacing.

This Jeep Safari from Paphos offers a lively, scenic, and culturally rich way to see Cyprus’s interior. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way through mountains, waterfalls, and vineyards, it’s a day designed for those who crave a taste of rural Cyprus with a side of adventure.