Jeep Safari Troodos – Kykkos monastery Waterfall and Venetian bridge from PAPHOS

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure away from Paphos’s beaches, the Jeep Safari Troodos offers an engaging exploration of Cyprus’s mountainous landscapes and historic sites for $80.25 per person. This 8-hour tour combines scenic drives, cultural visits, and outdoor stops, making it ideal for those who love nature, history, and a bit of off-road fun. The tour departs from Paphos with hotel pickup and features group sizes capped at 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

While the tour offers many highlights, including Kykkos Monastery and Aphrodite’s Rock, some stops may feel brief, and the ride can be slightly cramped for larger groups. Nevertheless, the overall value, especially given the free entry to most attractions, makes this a popular choice for visitors wanting to see Cyprus’s diverse scenery and cultural treasures without renting a car.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $80.25, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours.
• Includes hotel pickup and air-conditioned jeep transportation for a comfortable journey.
• Small group size capped at 12 ensures personalized attention.
• Highlights include Kykkos Monastery, Mount Olympus, Waterfall, Venetian Bridge, and Aphrodite’s Rock.
• Many stops are free of charge, with optional wine tasting costing $5 per person.
• The tour features scenic drives and informative guides like Filipos, Costas, and Debbie.

Exploring the Troodos Mountains and Its Highlights

From Paphos to the Asprokremmos Dam

The journey begins with a visit to the Asprokremmos Dam, Cyprus’s second-largest dam, built around 100 meters above sea level. This site is noteworthy for its status as an important wetland habitat, attracting various endemic and migratory birds. The stop lasts about 10 minutes, offering a quick photo opportunity and a chance to admire the dam’s impressive structure. Since there’s no admission fee, it’s more about the scenery and birdwatching.

Discovering Tzelefos Bridge in Lush Greenery

Next, travelers visit Tzelefos Bridge, renowned as the largest stone bridge on the island. Spanning the Diarizos River, this archstone bridge is a popular photo spot. Located in a green forest area, this stop lasts around 30 minutes and offers opportunities to explore the surrounding nature spots. The bridge’s historical significance and scenic setting make it a favorite photography point, despite the brief visit.

Chantara Waterfall and Its Natural Power

The Chantara Waterfall is a highlight for nature lovers. Named after the Greek word for “water noise,” this 8-meter waterfall produces a lively cascade that spills into a small pond. Surrounded by aromatic pine trees, ivy, strawberry trees, and lavender, the area offers a sensory delight with its natural scents. The stop lasts about 20 minutes, providing enough time for photos and a short walk in the countryside.

Climbing Mount Olympus at 1,952 Meters

Cycling enthusiasts and mountain lovers get a glimpse of Mount Olympus, the highest point in Cyprus. At 1,952 meters, the mountain also hosts a British radar station at its peak. During winter months, the high possibility of snow makes it a scenic winter stop, with a 10-minute visit to appreciate the altitude and views.

Visiting the Iconic Kykkos Monastery

The Kykkos Monastery is one of Cyprus’s most famous religious sites, founded in the late 11th century by Byzantine emperor Alexios I. Visitors have 40 minutes to explore its impressive architecture and religious relics. The monastery is known for its wealth and beauty, but the free entry allows guests to appreciate its historical significance without additional costs.

Exploring Omodos Village and Its Art Scene

The picturesque village of Omodos offers a taste of rural Cyprus. Known for homemade wine, artisan crafts, and museum-style homes, the village is a lively stop. Visitors can stroll along ancient streets, browse silver jewelry, glass objects, and local sweets, or visit the True Cross Monastery, which houses a relic of the True Cross. The 30-minute stop provides a relaxed atmosphere and local shopping opportunities.

Tasting Wine at Zenon Winery

A highlight for wine lovers, the Zenon Winery offers a 20-minute wine tasting session. The experience is included in the tour, providing an intimate setting to sample Cypriot wines and learn about local winemaking traditions. The tasting is optional, and visitors can decide whether to indulge during their visit.

Swimming and Legends at Aphrodite’s Rock

The tour concludes at Aphrodite’s Rock, famous for the legend that it’s the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The foaming waters and striking sea stacks make this a captivating photo spot. Visitors are free to swim in the sea for about 30 minutes or simply admire the scenery, making it a fitting end to the day’s exploration.

Practicalities and Logistics of the Tour

Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from Paphos at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup included for convenience. The maximum group size of 12 ensures a more personal experience and allows guides to offer better attention to each participant.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in an air-conditioned jeep, which helps keep the group comfortable during the longer drives and off-road sections. While reviews note that the jeep can be cramped for larger groups, the smaller size generally enhances the experience by creating a more intimate atmosphere.

Flexibility and Additional Costs

Most attractions do not require an entrance fee, making the tour a good value. However, the wine tasting at Zenon Winery costs $5 per person, and lunch is not included—guests typically bring snacks or plan to dine in local villages.

Timing and Pacing

Stops are brief but well spaced, focusing on scenic, historic, and cultural highlights. Some reviews mention that certain stops, like the dam, feel short, and the timing can be tight at some locations. This tour may appeal most to those comfortable with shorter visits and group-paced schedules.

Unique Features of the Jeep Safari Troodos Tour

Off-Roading and Scenic Drives

The jeep journey offers an adventurous element not found in traditional bus tours. The mountain roads and forest paths provide a thrilling ride while allowing access to remote spots that are difficult to reach otherwise.

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Attention

Guides such as Filipos, Costas, and Debbie earn high praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling. They help bring the sights to life with entertaining comments and clear explanations, enriching the experience.

Focus on Nature and Culture

This tour balances natural beauty—such as waterfalls, mountains, and sea—with cultural highlights like the Kykkos Monastery, Omodos Village, and the Venetian Bridge. The combination creates a well-rounded snapshot of Cyprus’s diverse landscape and history.

Flexibility and Personalization

Though some reviews note that timing at stops can be brief, the small group size allows guides to adjust pacing to some degree. Guests can choose whether to indulge in optional activities like wine tasting or simply enjoy the scenery.

Final Thoughts on the Jeep Safari Troodos Experience

The Jeep Safari Troodos offers a comprehensive tour of Cyprus’s mountains, historic sites, and scenic spots for $80.25. The 8-hour itinerary is packed with highlights, from Kykkos Monastery to Aphrodite’s Rock, making it a strong choice for those eager to explore beyond the coast.

The small group size and expert guides ensure a personalized, engaging experience, especially for those interested in local culture, nature, and adventure. While some stops are brief, the scenic drives and diverse locations compensate well. Active visitors who enjoy off-road driving and short walks will find this trip particularly satisfying.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions and the opportunity to see remote sites without renting a car. The optional wine tasting adds a nice local touch, and the free access to many sites helps keep the experience affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is provided, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from around 8:00 am to late afternoon.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more personal experience with the guide.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included; guests should plan to bring snacks or dine in local villages.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the off-road jeep ride might be less comfortable for very young children or those sensitive to bumpy rides.

What stops are most highly praised?
Kykkos Monastery, Aphrodite’s Rock, and the waterfall are standout locations, often highlighted for their beauty and significance.

Are there any extra costs during the tour?
The wine tasting at Zenon Winery costs $5 per person; all other sites generally have free entry.

How flexible is the schedule?
Stops are brief and focused, which some reviews suggest can feel rushed, especially at the dam. Guides try to balance timing to maximize experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, water, and perhaps a camera for photos of scenic viewpoints and landmarks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund available if canceled earlier.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; cancellations due to bad weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by ConstrucTOUR Travel Agency, known for small-group, personalized excursions.

This Jeep Safari Troodos from Paphos delivers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile addition to any Cyprus itinerary.