Unforgettable day on safari from Paphos to the Troodos mountains

Planning a trip to Cyprus and looking for a day filled with scenic views, cultural highlights, and a touch of adventure? This eight-hour safari tour from Paphos to the Troodos Mountains promises just that. It’s a carefully curated journey through some of the island’s most iconic spots, combining nature, history, and local charm for an authentic experience you’ll remember.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it features over twenty years of safari experience, ensuring seasoned guides who know how to make every stop memorable. Second, it offers short walks through picturesque villages, allowing you to soak in local life without feeling rushed. Lastly, the tour’s focus on flora, fauna, archaeology, and geology adds an educational layer that’s perfect for curious travelers. The only consideration might be the small group size, which, while intimate, might not suit everyone’s preferred style of travel.

This experience is ideal for those who love a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and scenic landscapes. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day that balances activity with comfort, this safari could be the right choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cyprus experience with visits to traditional villages and major landmarks
• Expert guides with over twenty years of safari experience
• Educational focus on geology, archaeology, flora, and fauna
• Flexible options for lunch and wine tasting (additional costs)
• Small group size, limited to 8 participants, for a personalized experience
• Convenient hotel pickup from Paphos, including transport and a guide

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Troodos Mountains Safari

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Paphos, where you’ll meet your driver and guide, Stellio—a friendly local with extensive knowledge of the area. From there, the journey heads into the Limassol District, offering a compact but immersive experience of Cyprus’s diverse landscapes.

The Journey Through Traditional Villages

Your first stops include Salamiou Village and Pedoulas Village. These spots are perfect for short walks and photo opportunities. Expect to stroll through narrow streets, admire stone-built houses, and perhaps catch glimpses of local artisans. The tour guides often share interesting tidbits about village life, architecture, and local traditions, making each stop more than just a photo op.

The Landmark of Kykkos Monastery

A highlight for many travelers, the Kykkos Monastery stands as Cyprus’s most popular and wealthiest monastery. Set high in the mountains, the monastery complex offers stunning views and a look into religious art and history. You might find the atmosphere contemplative, and the guide usually shares stories about its origins, treasures, and importance to Cypriots.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Nature and Geology at Mount Olympus Waterfalls

Next, the tour ventures into the Paphos Forest area, home to the Mount Olympus waterfalls. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see the lush flora and fauna, including wild mouflons—an endemic mountain sheep. The short walks here allow you to enjoy the fresh mountain air and appreciate Cyprus’s geological history, which is of worldwide interest for understanding ocean formation.

Lunch and Local Flavors

The stop in Pedoulas Village offers an optional lunch, paid for by visitors. While the tour doesn’t include meals, this is an excellent opportunity to sample traditional Cypriot cuisine in a cozy, local setting. Reviewers have praised this part of the day, highlighting the generous portions and authentic flavors.

Reaching the Top of Cyprus

After lunch, the tour ascends to the highest point of Cyprus, where ski resorts operate in winter. In warmer months, the cooler air and panoramic views make this a favorite photo stop. It’s a chance to get a sense of Cyprus’s varied climate and landscape.

Omodos Village and Wine Tasting

Next, the group visits Omodos Village, famous for its vineyards and wine tradition. Wine tasting here is optional and often a highlight for visitors—many reviews mention the excellent local wines and knowledgeable guides explaining the wine-making process. This part of the trip adds a relaxed, tasting-focused experience that pairs well with the scenic surroundings.

The Mythical Birthplace of Aphrodite

Your journey concludes at Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love. A beautiful spot to reflect on the day, take photos, or simply relax. The landscape here is iconic, with azure waters and rocky formations that have inspired countless stories.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes comfortable transport and is limited to just 8 participants, making it a more personalized experience. The driver, Stellio, is French-speaking and has garnered praise for being friendly and informative, as one reviewer noted: “Stellio, the guide, is very friendly. We saw so many things, it was great.” Small group size means more interaction with the guide and less time waiting for others, which is ideal for most travelers.

Cost and What’s Included

The tour’s price covers hotel pickup in Paphos, transportation, and an expert guide. Meals and drinks are extra, so budgeting for lunch and wine tastings is advisable. Many find that the value of the experience—covering multiple highlights in one day—justifies the additional costs.

Duration and Flexibility

At 8 hours long, the tour offers a leisurely pace with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed. You can check starting times when booking, and with the option to reserve now and pay later, there’s flexibility to plan around your other activities.

Accessibility and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or those over 95, due to the nature of the terrain and vehicle access. Comfortable shoes, water, and biodegradable insect repellent are recommended to make the most of your day.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This safari offers a genuine, well-rounded look at Cyprus’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The combination of scenic drives, short walks, historical visits, and optional tastings makes it suitable for travelers who love a mix of activity, learning, and relaxation.

The knowledgeable guides, especially Stellio, enhance the experience with their friendly approach and local insights. The small group size ensures a more intimate and engaging journey, ideal for those who prefer a personalized touch.

For travelers seeking a full day of discovery that balances outdoor adventure with culture, this tour delivers impressive value—covering iconic sites and hidden gems without feeling hurried.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic Cyprus experience that explores diverse landscapes, traditional villages, and historical sites—all while enjoying the comfort of guided transport—this safari from Paphos to the Troodos Mountains is an excellent choice. The focus on flora, fauna, geology, and local culture provides a meaningful connection to the island, leaving you with memorable stories and stunning photos.

While the optional meals and wine tastings add to the experience, the core highlights—Kykkos Monastery, Mount Olympus waterfalls, and Aphrodite’s birthplace—make this tour worthwhile even without extra spend. The small group format, personable guide, and well-planned itinerary ensure a day that’s both fun and informative.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed, and engaging exploration of Cyprus’s mountainous heart, ideal for those eager to learn about the island’s geology and history in a scenic, comfortable setting.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Paphos, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times available upon booking.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, water, drinks, comfortable clothing, and biodegradable insect repellent for the outdoor parts.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or for those over 95 due to terrain and vehicle restrictions.

Are meals included? No, meals are extra. You have the option to purchase lunch in Pedoulas Village and wine tasting at Omodos.

What languages are available? The guide speaks French, but the experience is generally suitable for English speakers as well.

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

Is the group small? Yes, limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there any physical activity involved? The walks are short and manageable, but comfortable shoes are recommended. No strenuous activity is required.

This trip offers an enriching look at Cyprus’s mountains, villages, and legendary sites. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a scenic escape, it’s a memorable way to experience the island’s diverse beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: