Paphos: Akamas Gorge & Turtle Bay & Donkey Farm Jeep Safari Tour

Thinking about booking a tour that takes you through some of the most captivating spots around Paphos? This jeep safari offers a hands-on way to see Cyprus’s natural wonders and local charm in one well-rounded day. We’ve looked into what this experience is really like, and I’ll share the details so you can decide if it’s right for you.

What we particularly like about this tour is its variety of stops — from dramatic sea caves to the legendary Baths of Aphrodite, there’s plenty to see and experience. Plus, the knowledgeable guides really make a difference, adding stories and insights that bring each site to life. The stunning scenery along the coast and in the gorge definitely stands out, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the stops can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for a long hike or a more relaxed pace. The tour is designed to cover a lot in one day, which is great if you want a broad overview, but less ideal if you’re after a slow, in-depth exploration.

This tour tends to suit adventurous travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, are comfortable in a jeep, and appreciate a lively guide. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with a group or family looking for a mix of natural beauty and fun.

Key Points

• Varied stops: From sea caves and gorge to turtle conservation, there’s a lot packed into this tour.
• Expert guides: The reviews highlight Dimitri’s engaging, knowledgeable, and entertaining style.
• Scenic views: Expect stunning coastlines, limestone cliffs, and lush vegetation.
• Rushed timing: Some travelers find the stops are brief, making it less suitable for long exploration.
• Value for money: At around $58, the price covers transportation and entry fees for most sites.
• Good for adventure lovers: This experience suits those comfortable in a jeep and with moderate physical activity.

Starting with a Clear Overview

This jeep safari in Paphos is designed for those eager to see Cyprus’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple individual visits. It’s a full-day adventure, typically lasting 7 to 8 hours, that whisks you around some of the most picture-worthy locations in the Akamas Peninsula. With private transportation included, you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or waiting around for buses. It’s a fast-paced, fun way to tick off several must-see spots in one go.

The tour is priced at $58.22 per person, which is a reasonable rate considering it includes most entry tickets and the comfort of a private jeep. It’s also notable that the tour has high ratings — around 4.5 out of 5 from several travelers — and last month, it saw over 10 bookings, indicating steady popularity.

What’s on the Itinerary?

Let’s break down each stop, what it offers, and how it might fit into your plans.

Sea Caves

The adventure begins with a visit to the sea caves along Cyprus’s coast. These formations have taken thousands of years to carve out, and their natural beauty is hard to beat. Expect to see rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and impressive rock structures. The tour involves a 20-minute stop with included admission, so you’ll have a chance to snap photos and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

From reviews, many appreciate the gravel-road jeep ride that gets you close enough to marvel at these caves. It’s a quick stop, but a great way to kick off the day with some spectacular views.

Church of Agios Georgios

Next, you’ll visit St. George’s Church, a site that offers a glimpse into local history and architecture. It’s a short 10-minute transfer away, with about 20 minutes for sightseeing. Though not the main focus, it adds a cultural touch to the day’s natural exploration, and many reviews mention the interesting stories guides share about these historical spots.

Avakas Gorge

Arguably the highlight for many, Avakas Gorge is a narrow limestone canyon carved by natural forces over millennia. You’ll have about an hour here, which is enough time to walk part of the rocky, shaded path between towering cliffs. The environment is humid, shaded, and lush, providing a welcome break from the sun and plenty of opportunities for photos.

Most travelers express that the views are breathtaking, and the chance to see rare plants like orchids and wildlife like foxes and hares makes the stop quite special. Some reviews mention that the gorge is the “best bit” of the tour, with the dramatic cliffs and dense vegetation making for memorable scenery.

Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station

A significant part of this tour is the visit to Lara Bay, home to a turtle conservation station. Here, you can learn about Cyprus’s efforts to protect sea turtles, and during the right season, maybe even see baby turtles hatch and head toward the sea. The station is a modest wooden structure, and the stop lasts about 30 minutes.

Reviewers highlight the importance of the conservation work done here and note that while turtle sightings depend on the time of year, the experience of visiting this protected area adds a meaningful layer to the trip.

Lunch at Latchi Harbour

After the wildlife and natural scenery, you’ll head to Porto Latsi for a seafood lunch. The 1-hour stop isn’t included in the base price, so you’ll need to pay for your meal separately, but it’s a lovely chance to relax by the water and enjoy fresh fish or local dishes.

Travelers often rave about the delicious food and the scenic setting—so if you’re a foodie or love a good seaside meal, this is a highlight.

Baths of Aphrodite

Next, the tour includes a visit to the Baths of Aphrodite, a legendary spot linked to the Greek goddess of love. The site is small but steeped in myth, and you’ll only stay about 15 minutes here. The spot is perfect for a quick photo and a quick listen to the stories that make this place special.

Many reviews mention this as a “must-see” for its romantic and mythic associations, even if the actual baths are modest today.

Dipotamos Donkey Farm

The day wraps up with a trip to the Dipotamos Donkey Farm, where you can meet and touch friendly donkeys. It’s a casual, light-hearted stop that many find charming, especially if you’re traveling with kids or animal lovers. The 20-minute visit is a relaxed way to end the day.

From reviews, the donkeys are very well cared for, and visitors enjoy the personal interaction. It’s a gentle, feel-good conclusion to an eventful day.

The Experience & What You’ll Really Get

The tour, run by Safari Dimitris, is praised for its energetic, knowledgeable guides. Several reviewers mention Dimitri’s humor, enthusiasm, and storytelling ability, which really elevate the experience. One reviewer describes him as “a funny guy who made our experience the best,” and others appreciate the sense of family and friendliness during the trip.

Transportation is private and comfortable, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery. The tour size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, which helps keep things personal and flexible.

Regarding the price, at just over $58, the tour covers most entry fees, transportation, and a day full of diverse sights. Lunch is extra, but many find the meal options in Latchi to be worth it, especially given the scenic setting.

Many reviews highlight how much fun they had, especially with Dimitri’s engaging commentary and the stunning landscapes they got to see. Travelers also note that certain stops are quite short, which might disappoint those wanting more time at each location, but this is a trade-off for seeing so much in one day.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Be prepared for a moderate physical level—some walking and uneven paths, especially in the gorge.
• Expect a lively, chatty guide, and a vehicle that’s a bit bumpy on gravel roads.
• Timing is tight at each stop; if you’re looking for a leisurely experience, this might feel rushed.
• Bring comfortable shoes and sun protection; the outdoor sites can be hot and rocky.
• If you’re traveling with kids, the donkey farm and open spaces could be fun, but the overall pace may be a bit quick for very young children.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love adventure, enjoy natural beauty, and are happy to be on the move most of the day, this jeep safari offers a fantastic way to explore Cyprus’s highlights. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an interactive, engaging guide and don’t mind a bit of a fast-paced schedule.

It’s less ideal if you’re after longer, more relaxed visits or detailed hikes, but for those wanting a broad overview with plenty of photo ops and stories, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This Paphos Jeep Safari is a lively, comprehensive way to see some of Cyprus’s most memorable sights in a single day. The combination of stunning landscapes, wildlife, and local legends makes it a well-rounded experience. The high praise for guides and the scenic stops really stand out, and the overall value is good considering the price.

If you’re an adventure seeker who enjoys being in a group, loves stories and scenery, and doesn’t mind a packed schedule, this tour could be a real highlight of your trip.

On the flip side, if you prefer a slower pace or longer visits to each site, you might find it a little rushed. But for most, it offers a fun, engaging, and scenic day out.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, entry tickets to most sites, and a guide. Lunch is not included, so you’ll need to plan for that separately.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering multiple sites across the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and moderate physical activity, so it may suit families with children who are comfortable in such environments. The donkey farm might be especially fun for kids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. The terrain can be rocky and sunny.

Are the stops lengthy?
Most stops are brief — around 15 to 30 minutes — which travelers say makes for a busy but fun day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, for a full refund.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour with a maximum of 8 travelers, offering a more personal experience.

How is the guide?
Reviews consistently praise Dimitri’s enthusiasm, humor, and knowledge, making the trip engaging and lively.

What’s the main highlight?
Many mention Avakas Gorge and the turtle conservation station as the most memorable stops.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy scenic drives, natural beauty, and lively guides. It’s a solid choice for a day full of exploration and fun.

If you’re seeking an adventure-packed day that hits many of Cyprus’s highlights, this jeep safari could be just what you need. It balances scenery, wildlife, culture, and a good dose of humor — making it a memorable part of any Cyprus trip.