Exploring Paphos: A Day at the Zoo and the Blue Lagoon
If you’re considering a full-day adventure in Paphos, the Pafos Zoo Visit & Blue Lagoon Cruise offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters and relaxing ocean views. We’ve seen this tour praised for its friendly guides, excellent value, and the chance to see some of the Med’s most beautiful waters. It’s a good fit if you’re after a day that combines family-friendly wildlife exploration with a refreshing boat trip.
What we like most about this experience is how smoothly it combines two distinct activities—visiting animals in a safe, clean environment and then cooling off in the Blue Lagoon with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. Plus, the inclusion of transport, guides, and admission fees in the price makes it straightforward and convenient. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s not the best choice if you have walking difficulties or need a very flexible schedule. Overall, if you’re in Paphos and want a well-organized, engaging day trip, this one could be a winner.
Who would enjoy this? It suits families, groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking to explore and relax. It’s especially appealing if you love animals or want to enjoy some of the best swimming spots around Cyprus.
Key Points

- Balanced Itinerary: Combines wildlife exploration with a scenic boat cruise.
- Value for Money: Includes admission, transport, and guide services for around $81.
- Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful.
- Timing & Pace: About 8 hours total, with well-spaced stops.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, though not for those with walking difficulties.
- Ready for Sun and Sea: Bring your bathing gear, sunblock, and camera for a full day of fun.
A Closer Look at the Tour

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup starting around 8:30am. From there, it’s a short trip to the Pafos Zoo, a highlight for many visitors. The zoo isn’t just a collection of animals; it’s described as a clean, safe environment set amidst banana plantations, which adds a touch of local charm. With admission included, you get five hours to walk through and see hundreds of animals from around the world, from exotic birds to mammals and reptiles.
Our friend Jeanette, who recently took the tour, called the zoo “so lovely and clean” and mentioned how everyone was very friendly. She’s already planning to go again in August, which says a lot about her experience. It’s worth noting that the zoo’s environment seems thoughtfully maintained, making it an enjoyable outing for families or anyone interested in wildlife without feeling rushed.
Following the zoo visit, you’ll head to the Blue Lagoon, which is described as one of the Med’s most dazzling bathing spots. The boat trip itself lasts around three hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on deck. The guides emphasize that the Blue Lagoon offers exotic waters—perfect for those looking to cool off and soak in some of Cyprus’s best scenery.
The boat cruise is inclusive of the ticket price, which is a plus—it’s a straightforward way to add a boat trip to your day without worrying about extra costs. You’ll also receive guidance from local experts, who can share insights on the area and help you make the most of your time in the water.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Paphos
What to Expect at Each Stop
Pafos Zoo
Expect a leisurely exploration with a variety of animals from different continents. The environment is described as safe and well-maintained, making it ideal for families and young explorers. The five-hour window allows enough time to see the animals, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling hurried. You might find the guides helpful in pointing out interesting species or sharing fun facts, making it engaging even for kids.
Blue Lagoon
The boat trip to the Blue Lagoon offers stunning vistas of the coast, with clear, inviting waters. It’s a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling, so if you bring your own gear, you’ll have the chance to see some underwater life. The guides mention that the waters are exotic, which adds to the appeal. Sunbathing, relaxing, and taking in the scenery are also popular activities here.
Practical tips
Bring your bathing gear, towel, sunblock, and a camera. If you plan to snorkel, don’t forget your equipment—though you can also rent or buy it locally. Lunch options are available—adult meals have four choices, including vegetarian options—and the kids’ menu features familiar favorites like chicken nuggets or a hamburger with fries, along with a soft drink.
Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in Paphos we've examined
- Blue Lagoon and Aphrodite’s Baths Guided Day Tour from Paphos
- Kourion Ruins, Kolossi Castle and Winery Guided Visit from Paphos
- Guided Tour of Limassol with Kourion and Kolossi Castle
- From Paphos: Troodos Mountains & Villages Guided Day Trip
- Paphos: Letymbou and Panayia Guided French-speaking Excursion with tastings
- Paphos: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
The Overall Value

At roughly $81.42 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. With admission fees, boat cruise, guide, and transport included, you’re paying for a well-structured day—minimum fuss, maximum fun. The inclusion of a local guide adds value, especially if you want insights about the area or simply prefer a smooth, organized experience.
The tour’s popularity and the fact that it’s booked roughly 24 days in advance suggest it’s well-liked, and the one review we have is glowing: “Absolutely amazing trip,” says Jeanette, “Recommended. Zoo is so lovely and clean. Everyone was very friendly. Will go again in August.” While this is just a single review, it reflects a positive impression of the overall experience.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience works well for families or groups wanting a full day out that combines wildlife and water fun. It’s ideal for those who appreciate organized tours with included transport and guiding, reducing the hassle of planning individual activities. If you’re a traveler who enjoys learning from friendly guides and loves stunning coastal views, this tour could be a great choice.
However, if you have walking difficulties or prefer a more flexible schedule, consider whether the five hours at the zoo might be too much or if the boat trip’s timing fits your plans comfortably. It’s also not meant for those seeking intense adventure or specific water sports—snorkeling gear, for example, needs to be brought along if you want to explore beneath the surface.
Final Thoughts

In many ways, this tour ticks a lot of boxes for a hassle-free day in Paphos. The combination of the well-kept zoo, guided insights, and the stunning Blue Lagoon makes it a versatile choice for those wanting a bit of everything. The price reflects good value, especially given the inclusion of transport and admissions.
It’s a relaxed, scenic way to see some of Cyprus’s beloved spots without the stress of organizing multiple activities yourself. The friendly guides and positive reviews give you confidence that you’re in good hands, making it a solid pick for a memorable day.
If you’re someone who enjoys wildlife, scenic boat trips, and a well-organized schedule, then this experience is worth considering. It’s particularly suited to travelers who appreciate smooth logistics and authentic local insights—a day out that leaves you with great photos, new stories, and a refreshed outlook on Cyprus’s natural beauty.
Pafos Zoo Visit & Blue Lagoon Cruise with Local Guide from Paphos
“Absolutely amazing trip. Recommended. Zoo is so lovely and clean. Everyone was very friendly. Will go again in August”
FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport, making it easier to relax and focus on enjoying the day rather than worrying about logistics.
What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, so you should plan for an early start to make the most of the day.
Can I snorkel during the boat trip?
Yes, you can snorkel if you bring your own equipment. The guides suggest bringing your gear to explore the waters beneath.
Are meals included?
Lunch is available with four options for adults, and children can choose between a hamburger or chicken nuggets with fries plus a soft drink. Adult meals are not included in the tour price.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the zoo’s environment and kid-friendly meal options suggest it’s suitable for children, provided they are comfortable with walking and water activities.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.
This tour in Paphos offers a good balance of outdoor animal encounters and scenic coastal relaxation. It’s a practical, enjoyable way to spend a day exploring some of Cyprus’s highlights with friendly guides and a straightforward setup. Whether you’re traveling with family or just want a relaxing yet engaging day, this experience is worth considering.
More Guided Tours in Paphos
- Paphos: Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour with Guide
- Citrus plantations & Kourion: Guided French-speaking Excursion
- PAPHOS Half-Day Bus Trip with French-Speaking Guide
- Pafos: Troodos mountain’s villages, guided tour wine testing F/D
- From Paphos: Akamas 4×4 Tour with Local Guide
- Paphos: Zoo Visit and Blue Lagoon Cruise with Guide & Lunch
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