Paphos is a fantastic base for exploring Cyprus’s natural beauty, especially Akamas National Park, known for its rugged coastlines, lush forests, and rare wildlife. Unlike more traditional sightseeing, these tours focus on experiencing the wild side of Cyprus—whether it’s hiking through Avakas Gorge or spotting sea turtles at Lara Bay. What makes Paphos particularly appealing is its proximity to these unspoiled landscapes, paired with the chance to enjoy off-road adventures and nature conservation efforts firsthand.
Among the options available, we especially like the combination of hiking, wildlife encounters, and local flavor—like stopping at a local winery or the Baths of Aphrodite. These experiences go beyond typical sightseeing, immersing you in the island’s natural environment. For example, the Jeep Safari to Akamas National Park: Avakas Gorge Tour from Paphos offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural stops, making it a top choice for active travelers.
Below, we’ve outlined the two best national park tours in Paphos, comparing what each offers, their highlights, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Jeep Safari to Akamas National Park: Avakas Gorge Tour from Paphos
At number 1 on our list is this popular 8-hour jeep safari that takes you deep into the heart of Akamas National Park. This tour is perfect if you want an active day with a good dose of nature, combined with some interesting cultural and scenic stops. The tour includes a memorable hike through Avakas Gorge, renowned for its dense vegetation and endemic plant species like the Akamas centaury, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
What sets this tour apart is the variety of experiences packed into a single day. After the hike, you’ll visit Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station, where you can observe baby turtles hatching and learn about local conservation efforts—an experience that’s both adorable and meaningful. Following that, a stop in Latchi for lunch offers a taste of local Cypriot cuisine, and the day continues with visits to the Baths of Aphrodite grotto and the Edro Shipwreck, both photo-worthy spots. The tour includes hotel transfers and caps group sizes for an intimate experience, which means more personalized attention.
Guests consistently praise their guide, with one reviewer noting, “Mario was very knowledgeable and made sure everyone had a great time.” This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and cultural stops without worrying about logistics.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an excellent mix of hiking, wildlife, and scenic sightseeing, making it perfect for active travelers who want an authentic taste of Cyprus’s wild side.
2. From Paphos or Limassol: Akamas National Park Jeep Safari
Coming in at number 2, this 8 to 10-hour jeep safari takes you across a broader section of Akamas National Park, starting from Paphos or Limassol. It’s geared toward those who enjoy off-road driving, stunning rock formations, and sea views. This tour emphasizes exploring hard-to-reach areas in a comfortable group setting, making it a good choice if you’re interested in a more leisurely pace or traveling from either city.
The itinerary features walks and swim stops (season permitting), allowing you to cool off in the crystal-clear waters or simply enjoy the fresh air among pine and juniper trees. The tour is designed for nature lovers, with plenty of opportunities to see turtles at Lara Bay, as well as explore limestone gorges and rugged coastlines. Because this experience involves off-road driving in a sturdy vehicle, it’s suitable for those who don’t mind a bumpy ride and want to see the less accessible corners of the park.
Reviewers mention the trip’s exceptional scenery, especially the rock formations and sea vistas, but note that the tour’s length can be quite flexible based on your preferences. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic adventure with a bit of physical activity, and for those staying in Limassol or Paphos who want to maximize their time in the park.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature fans who appreciate off-road exploration and a relaxed day with plenty of chances to spot wildlife and enjoy the landscape.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and how much activity you want. If you’re keen on hiking through Avakas Gorge, visiting turtle conservation sites, and learning about local flora and fauna, the Jeep Safari to Akamas National Park: Avakas Gorge is your best bet. It’s a full-day adventure packed with diverse experiences.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more laid-back exploration with scenic drives, walks, and a focus on off-road scenery, then the Akamas Jeep Safari from Paphos or Limassol suits you. It’s also more flexible in timing and ideal if you’re based outside Paphos.
Consider your fitness level, interest in wildlife, and whether you enjoy hiking or prefer a more leisurely ride. Both tours include hotel transfers, but booking early is recommended during peak season to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts: Which Tour Fits Your Travel Style?
For those who want an active day immersed in nature, with hiking through Avakas Gorge and close-up wildlife encounters, the first tour hits the mark. If you’re more about scenic drives, relaxing walks, and enjoying the landscape without too much exertion, the second offers a great alternative. Both tours provide a fantastic way to see Cyprus’s unspoiled beauty, making them worthwhile additions to your Paphos itinerary.
If you’re planning a trip, consider the type of experience you want and book early—these tours tend to fill up quickly, especially in summer. Whether you choose the adventure-filled jeep safari or the scenic off-road ride, you’ll come away with memorable stories and plenty of stunning photos of Cyprus’s natural wonders.