From Protaras: Full-Day Grand tour Jeep Safari with Lunch

Taking a guided Jeep Safari through Cyprus’s interior is a fantastic way to see the island’s less touristy, more genuine side. This full-day adventure promises off-road thrills, scenic village walks, lush forests, waterfalls, and even a visit to a local winery — all packed into an 8-hour journey that feels both exciting and authentic.

What we love about this tour is how it combines adventure with culture. You’ll get to experience Cyprus’s mountain landscapes from a 4×4 vehicle, walk through traditional villages with narrow stone streets, and taste some regional wines. Plus, the lunch at a mountain village tavern is a highlight, offering hearty local dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.

One consideration is that the tour uses 4×4 vehicles without air-conditioning, which is something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to heat or prefer a cooler ride. Also, the tour involves off-road driving, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of bumpy terrain and adventure.

This trip appeals most to travelers eager to go beyond beaches and explore Cyprus’s natural beauty and local character. Those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural sights, and a touch of adrenaline will find it particularly rewarding.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Discover villages and scenic landscapes not often visited by travelers.
• Scenic Variety: From mountain waterfalls to lush forests, the tour offers diverse views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like George and Tasos enhance the experience with local insights.
• Cultural Touchpoints: Walk through traditional villages such as Lefkara and Lofou, known for their craftsmanship.
• Delicious Lunch & Tasting: Enjoy a mountain village lunch with regional wine tasting included.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal and flexible experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Jeep Safari Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins early, with pickup from over 34 hotel options across Protaras. Expect to be collected around 7:30-7:45 am in a Land Rover, ready for a day of exploration. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it easy to relax and focus on the adventure ahead.

Off-Road Driving and Scenic Drives

The core of this trip is the 4×4 vehicle ride. We loved the way guides like George or Tasos navigated the terrain — driving through well-maintained dirt tracks and asphalt roads that reach some of the most stunning views on the island. Multiple reviews mention the off-road portions as a highlight, with many guests noting how fun and exhilarating the driving is, especially when the vehicle hits rougher patches.

Dipotamos Reservoir Photo Stop

The first scenic stop is at Dipotamos Reservoir, where you get about 10 minutes to snap photos of the calm waters and surrounding nature. It’s a peaceful moment early in the day, setting the tone for the natural beauty ahead.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Walk Through Lefkara Village

Next, you’ll visit Lefkara, renowned internationally for its silverware and lace. The 30-minute walk through narrow streets lined with stone houses offers a glimpse of traditional Cypriot life. Reviewers often highlight this as a favorite part — the craftsmanship, the quaint atmosphere, and the chance to pick up unique souvenirs make it worthwhile.

Forest Drive and Mountain Waterfall

Driving through the Mesa Potamos Forest along the river, you’ll experience lush greenery and fresh mountain air. A walk of about 30 minutes leads you to a spectacular mountain waterfall, where ice-cold water cascades down rocky cliffs. Many visitors comment on how this spot feels like a secret paradise, perfect for photography and cooling off after the drive.

Village Lunch in Pano Platres

Around midday, the tour stops for a delicious lunch in Pano Platres, set in a cozy mountain village tavern. The meal, which includes regional dishes and vegetarian options, comes with complimentary wine, water, and lemonade. Reviewers often praise the quality of the food and the scenic mountain setting, making it a real highlight. The relaxed pace here lets you soak in the mountain vibe and chat with fellow travelers.

Visit to Lofou Village

Post-lunch, you’ll take a short walk through Lofou, another traditional village with stone architecture and narrow streets. The 30-minute exploration provides a chance to admire local craftsmanship and enjoy the tranquil environment. Reviewers mention that guides are friendly and engaging, often sharing stories about village life.

Extensive Off-Road Adventure

The afternoon entails about 1 hour and 50 minutes of further off-road driving, exploring more remote parts of the countryside. Guests like Steven and Mark appreciated the expert driving and the opportunities to see lesser-known sites, with many feeling it was a perfect mix of adventure and sightseeing.

Final Village Stop: Lofou or Switch to Lofou

Depending on the season, the tour may include a winter visit to Lofou or other nearby areas. The focus remains on showcasing authentic village life and beautiful scenery.

Wrap-up and Drop-off

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back, and guests are dropped off at their hotels, usually around 4:30–5 pm. The entire experience is balanced to ensure you feel fulfilled without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews highlight guides like George, Tasos, and Luca as being friendly, humorous, and full of local knowledge. They enhance the experience by sharing stories, pointing out interesting facts about local flora, fauna, and traditions, and making everyone feel comfortable and engaged.

Stunning Views and Natural Beauty: Whether it’s the mountain waterfalls, lush forests, or panoramic vistas from mountain peaks, the visual highlights are plentiful. Many guests mention taking incredible photos — especially at the waterfall and the forest.

Authentic Cultural Encounters: The stops in Lefkara and Lofou give travelers a real taste of traditional Cypriot craftsmanship and village life. These visits are more than just quick photo stops; they offer a peek into local customs, architecture, and artisan skills.

Excellent Wine Tasting & Lunch: The inclusion of a regional wine tasting at a local winery is a real plus, often described as a highlight. The mountain village lunch offers substantial, freshly prepared dishes, making this not just a quick snack but a full meal in a scenic setting.

Value for Money: Considering the inclusions — hotel pickup, a full day of exploration, multiple scenic stops, a hearty lunch, and wine tasting — the tour is generally seen as offering good value. The small group size (limited to 10) enhances the experience, allowing for more personal interaction and flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers seeking to see mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and lush forests will find plenty to love. It’s perfect for those who enjoy adventure and cultural experiences combined with scenic photography. If you’re curious about local crafts, wine, and authentic village life, this tour will satisfy those interests.

It’s also ideal if you prefer a small, intimate group and want to avoid big tour buses. However, keep in mind that the vehicle is without air conditioning, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with warm weather and off-road driving.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from over 34 hotels in Protaras is included, with pickup times around 7:30-7:45 am. If your hotel isn’t listed, you can ask for the closest pick-up point.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, ending around 4:30–5 pm, depending on traffic and group size.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking and exploring outdoors.

Are vegetarian options available? Yes, the lunch includes vegetarian dishes, and the tour can accommodate dietary preferences upon request.

What kind of vehicle is used? The tour utilizes Land Rover 4×4 vehicles without air conditioning, designed for off-road and scenic drives.

Is this tour suitable for children? It is suitable for children, but the off-road driving may be bumpy, and children should be comfortable with outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility.

Do I need to pay extra for sights or activities? No, all listed activities, including wine tasting and lunch, are included in the price. Optional admissions are not included but typically are not necessary for this tour.

Final Thoughts

This Jeep Safari from Protaras offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cyprus’s natural and cultural landscapes. From the thrill of off-road driving to the serenity of mountain waterfalls and the charm of traditional villages, it balances adventure with authenticity. The expert guides, scenic stops, and inclusive meals make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to see more than just coastlines.

For travelers eager to explore Cyprus’s interior, embrace some dirt on their shoes, and enjoy regional wines in a stunning mountain setting, this tour hits most marks. It’s particularly suited to curious, active travelers who appreciate local culture and natural beauty over tourist-heavy spots. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure — the island’s less-trodden paths await.

In the end, this tour is a blend of thrill, culture, scenery, and delicious local flavors. It’s best for those looking for a full day of authentic Cyprus experience, with a touch of off-road fun and scenic beauty woven throughout.

You can check if your dates are available here: