Paphos: Akamas Gorge & Turtle Bay & Donkey Farm Jeep Safari Tour

If you’re exploring Paphos and looking for an adventure that combines stunning scenery with authentic local experiences, this jeep safari genuinely offers a well-rounded day out. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal that it’s a popular choice for visitors craving more than just sunbathing or museum visits.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the diverse stops — from incredible sea caves to the mythic Baths of Aphrodite, you’ll get a taste of Cyprus’s natural and cultural highlights. Second, the engaging guides like Dimitris add a layer of humor and local insight that elevate the experience. Third, the value for money at just over $58 per person, considering the full day of varied activities, is tough to beat. That said, some reviews mention that the stops can feel rushed, especially the gorge hike.

This tour generally suits active travelers who enjoy sightseeing with a bit of off-road adventure, scenic photography, and some light walking. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced day, it might not be your best fit — but for those eager to explore Cyprus’s wild side with a lively guide, it hits the spot.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary with diverse stops including sea caves, Avakas Gorge, Turtle Bay, and more.
• Engaging tour guides like Dimitris keep the day lively, humorous, and packed with useful info.
• Incredible scenery that captures Cyprus’s rugged coastlines and lush landscapes.
• Authentic experiences such as touching donkeys and visiting turtle conservation stations.
• Good value for an 8-hour adventure, with most attractions included in the price.
• Rushed stops noted by some guests, especially for activities that could allow more time.

What To Expect from the Tour

Pick-up and Transportation

The experience kicks off with private pickup from your accommodation in Paphos. The transportation is comfortable, private, and efficient, making the journey between stops smooth and stress-free. With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personal interactions and quick access to the guide’s insights.

Sea Caves

The adventure begins with a short transfer of about 20 minutes to the Sea Caves. These natural formations are a photographer’s dream, with dramatic cliffs and caves eroded over thousands of years. Reviewers, like June, appreciated the opportunity to capture stunning photos of this rugged coastline. The visit includes a 20-minute stop with admission included. Expect to see impressive rock structures, with some reviewers noting the beauty of the coast and the gravel roads that lead there, which adds a bit of adventurous grit to the ride.

St. George’s Church

Next, about 10 minutes away, you visit St. George’s Church. This small, charming church offers a glimpse into the local religious architecture and is a nice quick stop for history buffs. Its proximity makes it a convenient addition that enriches the cultural aspect of the tour.

Avakas Gorge

The highlight for many nature lovers, Avakas Gorge is a narrow corridor carved out by water and wind over millennia. It’s a place where towering limestone walls meet dense greenery, creating a shady, humid environment perfect for spotting rare orchids and wildlife like foxes or hares.

The hour-long walk here is generally appreciated, but some guests, like Ellen, felt the visit was too brief—just five minutes in the gorge itself. Still, the gorge’s beauty and the chance to walk through this natural wonder make it a memorable stop. Reviews mention it as the “best bit” of the tour, with Dimitris sharing interesting facts about the geology and flora.

Turtle Bay and Conservation Station

A highlight for nature and animal lovers, Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station is where you can observe baby turtles hatching and heading to sea, depending on the season. Reviewers like Suman appreciated Dimitris’ enthusiasm and knowledge about the loggerhead turtles. The station is tiny, but its significance in protecting endangered species makes it a valuable experience, even if the timing doesn’t always align with turtle hatching seasons.

Lunch at Porto Latsi

The tour stops at Latchi Harbour for a leisurely lunch. The included stop doesn’t cover the meal but allows guests to purchase fresh seafood and local dishes. Reviewers like Kay appreciated the chance to enjoy a “good laugh” over a pleasant meal with views of the harbor, though some noted that lunch was an extra cost and not included in the tour price.

Baths of Aphrodite

The mythical Baths of Aphrodite are a short 15-minute transfer from Latchi. This legendary site offers a quick peek into Greek mythology and features scenic surroundings perfect for some photos. Dimitris and other guides often highlight the legend of Aphrodite bathing here, making it a romantic and intriguing stop.

Donkey Farm

The day concludes with a visit to a Dipotamos Donkey Farm, just 10 minutes away. Visitors can interact with friendly donkeys, feed them, and enjoy some relaxed farm atmosphere. Several reviewers, like Florian, enjoyed the interaction, and Dimitris’ enthusiasm made it feel like a visit among friends.

Return to Paphos

The tour wraps up after the donkey farm with a 40-minute transfer back to your accommodation, concluding a full, adventure-packed day.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviews praise Dimitris, the guide, for his lively personality, humor, and local knowledge. Suman describes him as “full of enthusiasm,” and June emphasizes that he made the day “the best” with his engaging personality. Several reviewers appreciated the personal touch, noting that Dimitris shared fun facts, sang along, and treated everyone like family.

However, some guests, such as Ellen, felt that the stops felt rushed, especially the gorge. They wished for more time at key destinations such as the gorge or Turtle Bay, particularly if they wanted to hike or relax.

Guests also valued the scenic drives, with comments about gravel roads adding a bit of rugged adventure. The small group size was consistently appreciated for its intimacy, allowing for more personalized interactions and easier photo opportunities.

Analyzing the Price and Overall Value

At $58.22 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the comprehensive itinerary, private transport, and most entry fees included. You’re getting a full day of varied experiences — from natural marvels to mythic sites — without the hassle of planning individual tickets or navigating alone.

While lunch isn’t included in the main price, the opportunity to select a seaside spot for fresh seafood adds to the appealing mix. For travelers seeking a hassle-free way to see some of Cyprus’s top sights with a knowledgeable guide and a friendly group, this tour presents notable value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous, active travelers who enjoy exploring diverse landscapes and don’t mind some walking and off-road driving. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a humorous, friendly guide who can make the day feel like a fun excursion rather than a strict sightseeing tour.

If you’re interested in nature, mythology, and local culture, this tour mixes all three seamlessly. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want more time at specific sites, this might feel a little rushed.

The Sum Up

This jeep safari around Paphos offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cyprus’s scenic beauty and cultural stories. The stops— from the dramatic sea caves to the legendary Baths of Aphrodite — provide memorable photo opportunities and authentic experiences. The small group size and lively guides make the day engaging and personal, ideal for travelers who want to feel like they’re exploring with friends.

The tour’s main strength lies in its variety — it combines natural wonders, mythic legends, and local animals into one seamless day out. The downside? Some guests find the pace quick, wishing for longer at certain stops, but overall, the authentic charm and breathtaking scenery outweigh the rushed moments.

For those eager to combine scenic drives, light hikes, and cultural stories in an adventurous, fun-filled day, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly best suited for active travelers who value good company, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see the best of what Cyprus’s wild landscape has to offer.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, most entry tickets such as the sea caves, Avakas Gorge, Turtle Bay station, Baths of Aphrodite, and Donkey Farm.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price. Guests can choose to purchase food at the Porto Latsi harbor afterward.

What is the typical group size?
The maximum number of travelers on this tour is 8, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, the tour includes private pickup from your accommodation in Paphos.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as some stops involve walking or light hiking, especially at the gorge.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A private jeep is used for the tour, providing an off-road adventure experience.

Can children join?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families, especially those comfortable with some walking and adventure.

How do reviews rate this experience?
It currently holds a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 30 reviews, with many guests praising the guides, scenery, and overall value.

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. Many stops offer excellent photo opportunities, especially the sea caves and scenic viewpoints.

This jeep safari in Paphos balances adventure, nature, and culture, making it a worthwhile addition to your Cyprus itinerary. Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes, local animals, or just a fun day out with a lively guide, this tour ticks all the boxes.