Famagusta & Blue Lagoon Jeep Safari & Boat Combination

If you’re looking to explore some of Cyprus’s most captivating sights beyond the usual tourist spots, the Famagusta & Blue Lagoon Jeep Safari & Boat Combination might just be your perfect day out. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an adventure packed with history, stunning scenery, and fun-filled sea escapades.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, it offers a rare glimpse into the divided city of Famagusta, giving travelers a chance to understand the island’s complex history from a scenic viewpoint. You also get to enjoy a cruise to the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its crystal waters—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck. Lastly, the tour’s small group size (maximum 10 participants) ensures a more intimate experience with personalized attention.

Of course, a potential consideration is the long duration—up to 9 hours—which might be tiring for some. That said, if you love a mix of culture, adventure, and nature, this tour offers excellent value for its comprehensive experience. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active days, scenic drives, and ocean-side relaxation.

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Key Points

Historical Insight: You get a meaningful look at Famagusta, including its famous ghost town, Varosha, and magnificent Venetian walls.
Scenic Views & Photo Opportunities: From the viewpoint over Famagusta to the sea caves and Blue Lagoon, you’ll find many picture-perfect moments.
Adventure & Relaxation: The combo of land exploration and boat cruise caters to both curious history buffs and sunbathers alike.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 people, the tour offers a more personal, engaging atmosphere.
Food & Refreshments: A complimentary local drink and a tasty lunch on the boat enhance the day’s enjoyment.
Expert Guides: Reviewers praise guides like George and Andres for making the trip informative and fun.

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The Itinerary in Detail

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Pickup & Starting Point

Most travelers are picked up around 8:00-8:15 am from their hotels, including popular spots like the Nissi Beach Resort and Radisson Beach Resort Larnaca. The transport is a jeep Landrover, which adds a bit of adventure right from the start. The small group size keeps the journey intimate, and the ride itself is comfortable with plenty of space for all.

Visiting Famagusta & the Viewpoint

Your first stop is the Famagusta Viewpoint, a strategic spot offering sweeping views of this historically contested city. This is where you’ll learn about Famagusta and Varosha, the “ghost town” that’s been off-limits to visitors for decades. One reviewer, Jabez, notes how guide George made the history engaging, remembering everyone’s name and making the story come alive.

The viewpoint allows you to grasp the scale of the city, its importance, and the impact of the 1974 invasion. Following this, you’ll pass the Deryneia Crossing point, which marks the boundary between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish-occupied north. Passengers describe it as a quick, straightforward crossing, offering perspective on the island’s ongoing division.

Exploring Famagusta’s Old Town

Next, the tour takes you into the old city walls of Famagusta, where you can stroll around, snap photos of the Venetian architecture, or relax over a coffee. Some travelers choose to visit landmarks like the Othello Tower for panoramic views that are “amazing,” according to reviewers. Here, you get a taste of the city’s layered history, with ruins and architecture echoing centuries of change.

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Free Time and Shopping

The two-hour free period is a highlight for many, allowing some to shop for souvenirs, explore further, or simply unwind. The guides are praised for their local knowledge, helping you find the best spots to relax or pick up unique items. For those who love to capture memories, this is also a prime photo opportunity.

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Journey to the Blue Lagoon

As the heat rises, you’ll switch from land to sea. The journey to the Blue Lagoon involves a cruise along the coastline, where you pass coves, sea caves, and tiny islands—each more photogenic than the last. The boat, which is described as comfortable and well-equipped, becomes the central hub for relaxation and fun.

The Blue Lagoon & Swimming

The Blue Lagoon lives up to its name, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around. Snorkeling gear is provided free of charge, and the water’s inviting, making it easy for even non-swimmers to enjoy. One guest, Kinga, mentions how “George has been fantastic,” and that the trip was “really an amazing experience,” highlighting the high quality of the cruise and crew.

You’ll also have a second chance to swim during the cruise, with additional stops for a dip in scenic spots. The water is described as stunning, with reviewers noting how relaxing it is to gaze at the cliffs or caves from the boat deck.

Lunch & Refreshments

A freshly prepared lunch on board adds a delicious touch to the day. The menu is said to include local dishes, accompanied by a complimentary local drink. Reviewers like Philip appreciate the variety and quality, describing it as “nice food” that complements the day perfectly.

Return & Drop-off

The journey back involves a jeep ride through the scenic eastern coastline, with the drop-off around 5:00-6:00 pm at a similar group of hotels or meeting points. Participants note that the guide’s knowledge, the scenic views, and the mix of history and leisure make for a worthwhile day.

What Makes This Tour Special?

A Balanced Mix of History, Nature, and Leisure

Travelers love how this tour manages to combine the cultural insights of Famagusta with the natural beauty of the Blue Lagoon. The historical stops aren’t just ticking boxes; guides like George and Andres ensure stories are engaging and informative, making the past come alive.

The Unique Opportunity to Cross the Green Line

Traveling beyond the green line offers a rare, eye-opening experience. You get to see the abandoned Varosha district and the fortified city walls, offering a perspective you won’t find in many other tours.

High-Quality, Intimate Experience

With only 10 participants, the group feels more like a small adventure rather than a crowded bus tour. This setup allows guides to personalize the experience, answer questions, and cater to individual interests.

Ocean Adventure and Relaxation

The cruise component isn’t just a scenic ride; it’s a chance to swim in a famously clear lagoon and snorkel among sea caves. The boat crew, praised for their attentiveness, makes the whole experience both safe and fun.

Excellent Value

Considering the full day of sightseeing, land and sea, lunch, and guided insights, many consider this tour to be great value for money. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and personalized service adds to its appeal.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, it is quite long—up to 9 hours—so it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenery, and water activities. The pickup times are around 8:00 am, so early risers should plan accordingly.

Weather can influence the day—hot sun or occasional breezes—so packing comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and a towel is essential. Also, remember that the tour does not include gratuities, so you might want to tip guides if you’re pleased with their service.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, adventure seekers, and ocean lovers. If you enjoy exploring beyond the typical tourist trail, this tour offers a meaningful look at a divided city, combined with a relaxing boat cruise. It’s also perfect for those wanting a small-group feel with personalized guiding and a mix of cultural and natural sights.

Travelers seeking a full-day adventure that balances education, scenery, and leisure—without rushing—will find this tour offers great value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is available from most major hotels in Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca. The pickup time is around 8:00-8:15 am, and you’ll be transported in a jeep Landrover.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, including stops, sightseeing, and the boat cruise.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included free of charge, allowing you to explore the Blue Lagoon’s waters with ease.

Can I explore Famagusta freely?
Yes, you’ll have about two hours of free time in Famagusta’s old town, giving you the chance to shop, snap photos, or relax at a café.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch served on the boat, accompanied by a complimentary local drink, is part of the package.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended for comfort and safety.

Final Thoughts

The Famagusta & Blue Lagoon Jeep Safari & Boat Tour offers a well-rounded day that combines historical discovery, scenic beauty, and ocean fun. The small-group setup and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience that leaves travelers with lasting memories. Whether you’re fascinated by Cyprus’s divided history or simply want to relax in crystal-clear waters, this tour provides great value and a balanced mix of activities.

If you’re after an adventure that’s both educational and leisurely, and don’t mind a full day on the go, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s perfect for those who want a meaningful glimpse into Cyprus’s past while also enjoying the stunning natural scenery the island has to offer.

Experience the best of eastern Cyprus with this full-day adventure—combining history, scenic drives, and a memorable boat cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here: