Famagusta & Blue Lagoon Jeep Safari & Boat Combination

If you’re looking to combine culture, history, and relaxation in one day on your trip to Cyprus, this Famagusta & Blue Lagoon tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally done it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions make it sound like a well-rounded adventure that appeals to travelers craving a mix of sightseeing, history, and seaside fun.

What stands out most is how this trip takes you beyond the usual tourist spots—crossing the border into the northern part of Cyprus to see Famagusta’s ghost town and Venetian walls. Plus, the highlight of the cruise to the Blue Lagoon offers a refreshing break with crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling. Another feature worth mentioning is the small group size, which tends to make the experience more personal and engaging.

That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. The full-day structure means some might find the schedule a bit packed, especially if traveling with young children or if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, since the tour involves crossing into the Turkish-controlled area, some travelers might want to consider their comfort with border crossing procedures.

This experience seems best suited for those who love a combination of history, scenery, and an active day out. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to see a different side of Cyprus without sacrificing relaxation or adventure.

Key Points

• Historical and cultural insights: Visit Famagusta, see the ghost town of Varosha, and explore Venetian walls.
• Small group experience: Limited to 10 participants, making it more intimate and tailored.
• Full-day adventure: Combines sightseeing, Jeep rides, and a boat cruise, so expect a busy schedule.
• Gourmet on board: Enjoy a delicious lunch and free drinks during the boat trip.
• Beautiful scenery: From the old city to sea caves and the Blue Lagoon, the views are a highlight.
• Value for money: Offers a comprehensive experience, including transportation, cruise, and lunch, for an all-in-one day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Beginning of the Day

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup from over 110 hotel options in Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca. Expect around 8:00 to 8:15 am, with your transport being a comfortable Land Rover jeep, perfect for navigating both city streets and off-road tracks. The size of the group is capped at 10, which means you’ll likely get more personalized attention from your guides—something many reviews highlight as a real plus.

First Stop: The Viewpoint of Famagusta

Your first real glimpse into Cyprus’s divided past is at the Famagusta viewpoint. Here, you’ll get a broad view of the ghost town of Varosha and learn about what life was like there before the invasion in 1974. This isn’t just a photo stop; it’s an educational moment that sets the tone for the rest of the day. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, sharing insights that make the scenery more meaningful—something travelers like Jabez appreciated, mentioning how the guides made everyone feel comfortable and well-informed.

Crossing into the North

After the viewpoint, you’ll drive towards the checkpoint at Deryneia, crossing into the Turkish-controlled north of Cyprus. While passersby note the brief crossing (about 10 minutes), it’s a significant part of the experience—being in a place divided since 1974. No visitors are allowed into the ghost town of Varosha, but you’ll pass by it and get a sense of its eerie, deserted streets. It’s a poignant reminder of the island’s complex history.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Famagusta

Once in Famagusta, you’ll have about two hours to explore. The old city is surrounded by impressive Venetian walls, and there’s plenty to see—perhaps a quick visit to the Othello Tower for panoramic views or some leisure time to shop and relax. The reviews suggest that this part is quite enjoyable, with many appreciating the opportunity to take photos and soak in the atmosphere.

Some travelers wished for more time on the beautiful beaches, but given the schedule, two hours probably feels just right for a quick but meaningful visit. It’s a chance to walk around, buy souvenirs, or simply sit with a coffee while contemplating the layered history of this storied city.

The Boat Cruise to Blue Lagoon

After exploring Famagusta, the next big highlight is the cruise to Blue Lagoon. This part of the trip lasts about two hours and offers stunning vistas of the coastline, sea caves, and coves. The boat is well-equipped, providing snorkeling gear free of charge, which guests seem to enjoy—Kinga praised George’s fantastic guiding, making the whole trip memorable.

The water here is famously clear, inviting you to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat deck. During the cruise, a delicious lunch prepared by the onboard chef is served, accompanied by complimentary local drinks. The food often receives high praise, with reviews mentioning good value and appealing options, including vegetarian choices. It’s a good mix of relaxation and indulgence amid breathtaking scenery.

Return and Final Jeep Ride

The journey back involves a few more jeep stops, giving you a chance to see additional scenery or perhaps take some photos of the coast. The entire day wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel or a designated location, usually around 5:00 to 6:00 pm, making it a full but fulfilling day.

Why This Tour Is a Smart Choice

This experience offers a thoughtful blend of history, scenery, and leisure. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in understanding Cyprus’s divided past without dedicating days to separate excursions. The small group size enhances the intimacy of the tour, allowing you to ask questions and get personalized insights.

The inclusion of a full lunch and drinks on the boat adds significant value, considering most similar excursions charge separately for food. The boat cruise itself is a major draw, offering a chance to relax in a pristine setting that’s hard to find elsewhere.

However, keep in mind that it’s a long day—about 8 to 9 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full schedules and don’t mind some travel time between stops. If you’re traveling with young children or prefer a more chilled pace, you might want to consider this aspect.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering transportation, guided sightseeing, the cruise, lunch, and snorkeling gear, this tour offers a lot of value. For a full-day experience that covers key historical sights and includes relaxing seaside moments, the cost is quite reasonable. Many travelers, like those who praised the guides and the food, noted the experience was worth every penny.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits adventure seekers, history buffs, and those who enjoy small group experiences. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see a different side of Cyprus—beyond the beaches—while also having time to unwind at one of the island’s most famous spots, the Blue Lagoon.

It’s less suitable if you prefer a more relaxed, less packed schedule or if travel with young children requires more flexibility. But if you’re looking for a well-rounded, memorable day in Cyprus that mixes culture, history, and leisure, this tour ticks those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge on the boat, so you can enjoy exploring the clear waters without extra hassle.

What should I wear on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The day involves walking, jeep rides, and swimming, so be prepared for the sun and some splashes.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The schedule is quite full, so it’s generally better for teenagers and adults. If you’re traveling with very young children, consider their comfort with a long day and active schedule.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Polish, English, and German, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Are the pickup locations flexible?
Pickup is available from most major hotels in Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca. Private accommodations are not included, but you can inform the tour provider about your hotel for arrangements.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your planning.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours, during which you can swim, snorkel, or relax on the deck.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the schedule is designed to balance sightseeing and relaxation: two hours in Famagusta, two hours at Blue Lagoon, and additional jeep stops.

Is the experience good value for money?
Based on reviews, many feel the combination of sightseeing, food, and boat trip offers excellent value, especially considering the small group size and guided insights.

Can I expect good food onboard?
Yes, the lunch is generally well-reviewed, with some reviewers mentioning vegetarian options and tasty local dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Famagusta & Blue Lagoon Jeep Safari & Boat tour offers a compelling mix of history, scenic beauty, and seaside relaxation all packed into one full day. It’s a great choice for those eager to see the divided island’s past, enjoy some stunning coastal views, and unwind with a refreshing swim. The small group setting and guided commentary make it a personal and informative experience, while the inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds real convenience and value.

If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and want a varied, memorable day in Cyprus, this tour hits most marks. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who love a bit of adventure and storytelling, with plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos along the way.

Remember: Pack your sunscreen and swimwear, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for an enriching day that’s as much about discovery as it is about relaxation. Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: