Paphos: Avakas Gorge & Turtle Bay Jeep Tour with Donkey Farm

If you’re heading to Paphos and looking for a way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, this jeep tour offers a fantastic option. With a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and a bit of fun, it’s designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Cyprus in just one day.

What I love about this experience is how it balances adventure with authentic encounters — from hiking along limestone cliffs to chatting with donkeys on a farm. Plus, the included stops like the Baths of Aphrodite and Turtle Bay add a sprinkle of myth and wildlife that make the trip memorable.

On the flip side, this tour is quite active and involves a fair amount of bumpy off-road driving, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, sit-back-and-listen kind of day. Also, food and drinks aren’t included, so planning for some extra snacks or a leisurely lunch is a good idea.

This tour really suits travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, love exploring outdoor sites, and appreciate a guide with both knowledge and personality. If you’re after a fun, flexible day with plenty of photo ops and the chance to meet local animals, it’s a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic adventure with off-road jeep driving through scenic landscapes
• Expert guides who are passionate about sharing Cyprus’s natural and cultural gems
• A great value for money experience that includes several notable stops
• Perfect for active travelers who don’t mind some bumpy rides and walking
• Small group size (up to 8 people) ensures a personalized, friendly atmosphere
• Opportunities to see sea turtles, interact with donkeys, and enjoy local cuisine

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Highlights of the Tour

An Exciting Jeep Journey to Breathtaking Landscapes

This tour kicks off with comfortable pickup from your Paphos accommodation, setting the stage for a bumpy but exhilarating ride. The jeep, designed for rough terrain, takes you past a series of stunning locations, each offering a different aspect of Cyprus’s natural beauty.

You’ll love the way the guide’s energetic style keeps the mood lively, often playing music and sharing fun stories. Reviewers frequently mention how engaging and knowledgeable Dimitris, the driver and guide, is—adding personality to the trip that makes the journey just as enjoyable as the stops.

Exploring Avakas Gorge

The main highlight is the Avakas Gorge, a narrow limestone canyon carved out over millennia. Expect to do some light hiking along the rugged terrain, where towering cliffs create perfect photo opportunities. Reviewers have noted that the gorge is a scenic marvel where you can see diverse plant life, including rare orchids, and potentially spot wildlife like foxes and hares.

One reviewer shared, “Dimitris was very knowledgeable and made the walk fun, explaining about the plants and geology of the gorge.” This spot is perfect for nature lovers who appreciate unique geological formations and enjoy a bit of outdoor activity.

Turtle Bay and the Sea Turtles

A major draw is the visit to Turtle Bay, a protected habitat where you might catch sight of rare sea turtles nesting. The shallow, calm waters make it an ideal spot for photography and observing wildlife. Reviewers have raved about the experience, with one noting that the beach is “a stunning habitat for sea turtles,” and another mentioning that they enjoyed the peaceful vibe during their visit.

This stop emphasizes the importance of conservation and offers a chance to learn about Cyprus’s efforts to protect these gentle creatures. It’s a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone hoping to see some of the island’s unique native species.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Donkey Farm Fun

No trip to Cyprus is complete without some interaction with the local animals, and the donkey farm delivers just that. Visitors love the chance to pet, feed, and take pictures with friendly donkeys. One reviewer mentioned that they found the donkeys “very likable and gentle,” making it a fun and memorable part of the day.

The stop is brief but impactful, giving you a taste of rural life and the opportunity for some lighthearted fun. If you’re an animal lover, this will probably be one of your favorite moments.

A Coastal Seafood Lunch

The tour takes a well-earned break at Porto Latsi, a charming seaside village where you can indulge in a fresh seafood lunch. The restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful water views, and many reviews praise the delicious, reasonably priced food.

You’ll have the chance to order from a menu with pictures and prices, making it easy to pick your meal without any language worries. Reviewers have enjoyed the local flavor—some even returning for seconds! The leisurely lunch adds a nice balance to the morning’s active sightseeing.

Mythical Baths of Aphrodite

Next, you’ll visit the Baths of Aphrodite, an iconic spot steeped in mythology. According to legend, the goddess of love bathed here, and the site remains a place of beauty and tranquility.

The stop involves some light walking and photos, with one reviewer noting, “It’s a beautiful spot with interesting legends.” The scenery is especially captivating if you enjoy combining nature with stories of Greek mythology.

A Traditional Village Finale

Your day wraps up with a visit to a quaint Cypriot village, where you can purchase local coffee brewed in a copper brikia pot—a delightful cultural experience. Many travelers find these moments of local flavor and simplicity the highlight of their trip, often sharing how their guide enthusiastically explained local customs and traditions.

What to Expect: The Full Itinerary Breakdown

The trip begins with a 25-minute drive from Paphos to the coast, passing by stunning sea caves that set the tone for the day’s adventure. Expect picturesque views, perfect for photos, and an engaging commentary from your guide.

Next, you’ll stop at St. George’s Church, a charming spot to admire local architecture and capture more pictures. The 20-minute break is a good opportunity to stretch and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The Avakas Gorge visit takes approximately an hour, including guided hiking and exploration. Reviewers mention how the guide makes the walk accessible and educational, highlighting the diverse flora and fauna.

From there, the journey continues to Lara Bay, another protected turtle habitat, where you can relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the beach for about an hour.

The Akamas Peninsula offers scenic views and a chance to learn about the park’s ecological significance.

A 30-minute drive brings you to Latchi Harbour for lunch, with plenty of time to savor fresh seafood and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.

The mythic Baths of Aphrodite follow, with about 20 minutes to explore and photograph the site.

The donkey farm is next, where the friendly animals await your attention. This stop often gets thumbs up for its casual, interactive vibe.

Finally, the tour winds down with a visit to a traditional village, offering more scenic views and local culture before returning to Paphos.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable, all-terrain jeep designed for adventure, ensuring you get the most scenic and rugged parts of Cyprus. The small group size, limited to 8 participants, means you’ll have plenty of space and personalized attention. Reviewers consistently mention the fun, energetic guide and how the intimate group enhances the experience.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day. Availability varies, so checking specific start times is recommended. With the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s flexible enough for last-minute plans or certain schedule tweaks.

Cost and Value

While food and drinks are not included, the price covers guide services, the jeep adventure, donkey farm visit, and the scenic stops. Many reviewers feel the experience offers excellent value, especially considering the variety of sites covered and the personalized service.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and light hiking.
• Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to stay protected from the sun.
• Don’t forget your camera or smartphone—you’ll want to capture the stunning scenery.
• Bring beachwear if you want to relax at Turtle Bay or Lara Bay.
• Pack water and snacks for the journey, especially since food isn’t included.
• Prepare for some bumpy off-road driving—a sense of adventure is a must!
• Check the weather forecast; the tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for varying conditions.

The Sum Up

This jeep tour from Paphos offers a lively, varied day packed with natural beauty, mythic stories, and genuine local experiences. The mix of scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights makes it a well-rounded choice for travelers craving outdoor adventure and authentic sights.

The small group setting and passionate guide ensure a personalized touch, keeping the experience fun and informative from start to finish. If you’re after a day filled with exploration, laughter, and memorable moments, this tour is hard to beat.

While it’s not a laid-back, sightseeing-by-bus kind of experience, the energetic pace and off-road adventures are perfect for those who want to see Cyprus’s highlights without feeling rushed. It’s especially ideal for active travelers, animal lovers, and anyone who appreciates a guide with humor and local knowledge.

This tour provides excellent value for money, combining stunning scenery, engaging storytelling, and cultural highlights—all wrapped up in a fun, bumpy ride through Cyprus’s best.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is included from your accommodation in Paphos, and it’s done using a comfortable all-terrain vehicle.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 7 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, beachwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and some snacks/water are recommended.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a stop at a seaside restaurant where you can buy fresh seafood.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, friendly atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the activity takes place rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, especially if your family enjoys outdoor activities, animals, and scenic drives. The stops at the donkey farm and turtle bay are particularly family-friendly.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of a passionate guide, diverse sites, and the fun of off-road driving makes it a memorable way to experience Cyprus beyond typical sightseeing.

You can check if your dates are available here: