Famagusta Jeep Safari from Aya Napa/Protaras/Larnaca

The Famagusta Jeep Safari from Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca offers a compelling way to experience Cyprus’s contrasting landscapes and history in a single day. Priced at approximately €272, this 8-9 hour tour takes travelers across the “Green Line” to Northern Cyprus, highlighting iconic sites like Varosha, the Salamis archaeological site, and Saint Barnabas’ tomb. The tour is especially suited for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, with a focus on history, archaeology, and local stories.

While the tour includes visits to several major sites, it also offers flexibility for free time and shopping in Famagusta’s old town. With small group sizes limited to 10 participants, it maintains a personal touch. However, it’s worth noting that entry to some archaeological sites is optional and paid separately. This adventure combines off-road exploration with visits to cultural landmarks, making it an engaging option for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• This tour departs from multiple locations including Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca, with pickup options from many major hotels.
• Travel is in a Land Rover jeep or SUV, adding to the sense of adventure during off-road segments.
• Visits include Varosha ghost town, Salamis archaeological site, and Saint Barnabas’ tomb, with some sites costing extra.
• The tour duration is 8 to 9 hours, with a mix of guided sightseeing and free time.
• Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and efficient organization, though some note discrepancies in group size and guiding at certain sites.

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Crossing the Green Line into North Cyprus

The adventure begins with pickup from designated hotels in Ayia Napa, Protaras, or Larnaca around 8:45-8:55 am. You then board a Land Rover jeep or SUV for the journey across the border into North Cyprus. This crossing is a key part of the experience, offering a glimpse into the divided history of the island.

Once across, the guide leads you along off-road tracks to Varosha, the abandoned ghost town that once thrived as a seaside resort. Visitors have the rare chance to walk through the sealed-off area and enjoy the beach, which remains a haunting reminder of the island’s complex past. The visit lasts about an hour, giving enough time to explore and take photos before moving on.

Exploring the Famagusta Old Town and Venetian Walls

After visiting Varosha, the tour proceeds to the old town of Famagusta, surrounded by impressive Venetian walls. Here, free time is provided for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing over a coffee. This part of the tour offers a blend of historical ambiance and local life, perfect for those wanting to soak in the town’s atmosphere.

A highlight is the chance to visit Othello’s Tower, which provides panoramic views from the top. This historic structure is a popular spot for photos and offers insight into the city’s medieval past. Visitors also have the option for an optional lunch and drinks, making this a flexible stop according to individual preferences.

Ancient Ruins at Salamis and Its Archaeological Significance

The Salamis archaeological site is the next key stop, lasting about an hour. Known as an ancient city-kingdom, Salamis features well-preserved ruins where you can wander among crumbling columns, ancient baths, and remnants of the city’s past life.

This site is a highlight for those interested in archaeology and history, offering plenty of photo opportunities. The entry fee is paid directly at the site if you choose to explore further. During the summer, the nearby beach allows for a quick swim, adding a relaxing element to the historic exploration.

Visiting Saint Barnabas’ Tomb and the Monastery

Next, the tour visits the Tomb of Saint Barnabas, a key religious site where Saint Barnabas, the apostle credited with bringing Christianity to Cyprus, is laid to rest. The visit lasts about 40 minutes and includes optional exploration of the nearby monastery dedicated to him.

This stop deepens the spiritual dimension of the tour and offers a peaceful setting for reflection. The entry to this site is included, and it provides a quiet contrast to the lively city and archaeological ruins.

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Off-Road Drive to Famagusta and Back

The tour features a couple of off-road segments lasting approximately 20 minutes each. These jeep or SUV drives are designed to add a sense of adventure to the day, taking travelers through less accessible areas and offering scenic views along the way.

The return journey to the southern side of the island is about an hour, giving participants time to relax or review their photos. The tour concludes with drop-off at selected hotels, typically in Ayia Napa, Protaras, or Larnaca.

Discovering Famagusta’s Historic and Modern Highlights

Back in Famagusta, the two-hour window allows for more sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing. Visitors often stroll through the old town, admiring the Venetian walls and historic buildings. The panoramic views from Othello’s Tower stand out as an especially popular photo spot.

Many choose to do some shopping or enjoy a local coffee before wrapping up the day. The tour emphasizes flexible free time to tailor the experience to personal interests.

Practical Details and Group Size Advantages

This tour operates with small groups capped at 10 participants, fostering a more engaging and personalized atmosphere. The pickup includes many major hotels across Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca, making logistics straightforward.

The driver speaks both English and German, and guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. The duration of 8-9 hours makes it a full but comfortable day, balancing sightseeing with free time.

What the Tour Does Not Include

While the tour covers many key sites, entry to archaeological sites like Salamis and Saint Barnabas’ tomb is optional and paid separately. Also, lunch and drinks are not included but are available for those wishing to extend their visit with a meal.

Luggage or large bags are not permitted, so travelers should pack light. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking and spending time outdoors under the sun.

Assessing the Experience Based on Reviews

Feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, with many reviews praising their storytelling and friendliness. Scenic views, especially at Othello’s Tower and the ghost town, earn special mentions.

Some reviews note discrepancies in group size or guiding at sites, but overall, the experience remains highly rated at 4.8 out of 5. The small group size and organized schedule appeal to travelers seeking an in-depth, manageable tour.

Final Thoughts on the Famagusta Jeep Safari

For those interested in dividing Cyprus’s history and landscape, this tour offers an exciting blend of off-road adventure, archaeological exploration, and cultural insight. The highlight remains the visit to Varosha, with its eerie yet fascinating atmosphere.

The combination of outdoor driving, historical sites, and free time makes it well-suited for history enthusiasts, curious explorers, and small groups. While some sites require an additional fee for entry, the overall experience delivers a comprehensive look at Famagusta and its surroundings.

Readers seeking an active, informative day trip that reveals the contrasts of Cyprus’s divided past will find this tour a worthwhile option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers transport in a Land Rover jeep or SUV, guided visits to key sites, and hotel pickup and drop-off from selected locations.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entry to archaeological sites like Salamis and Saint Barnabas’ tomb is paid directly at the sites if you choose to enter. Meals and drinks are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours from pickup to drop-off, including all sightseeing stops and free time.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen. Luggage or large bags are not permitted on the tour.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking outdoors and spending time in the sun. It is designed for small groups, ensuring a more personal experience.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and German, and reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides.

What makes this tour different from others?
The small group size, off-road vehicle experience, and visits to unique sites like Varosha and Salamis set this tour apart.

Can I do this tour if I don’t want to cross the border?
No, crossing into North Cyprus is part of the itinerary, and the tour is designed around this experience.

Is there free time during the visit?
Yes, there is free time in Famagusta’s old town for shopping, photos, or relaxing.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve via GetYourGuide, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby