Unforgettable day on safari from Paphos to the Troodos mountains

Travelers looking to explore Cyprus beyond its beaches often find that the Troodos Mountains offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture. This tour, run by Stelios Jeep Safari, promises a full day of discovery, packed with scenic stops, cultural sights, and a touch of adventure—all within a small group setting. From traditional villages to ancient monasteries, it’s an experience designed for those eager to see Cyprus’s inland treasures.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? We love the experience of passing through traditional villages that seem untouched by time, the opportunity to visit the famous Kykkos Monastery, and the chance to marvel at the Mount Olympus waterfalls. Plus, the focus on flora, fauna, and geology offers a richer understanding of what makes the Troodos region so unique. A possible consideration? The tour isn’t suitable for all mobility levels, especially wheelchair users or very young children. This safari suits those who want a balanced mix of culture, nature, and exploration in a small, intimate group setting.

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Key Points

Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personalized experience.
Expert guide with extensive knowledge about history, geology, and local flora and fauna.
Includes multiple scenic stops like the Kykkos Monastery, waterfalls, and mountain villages.
Comfortable transport with hotel pickup in Paphos.
Optional activities like wine tasting and a traditional lunch deepen the experience.
Focus on natural sciences makes it ideal for curious travelers interested in geology, flora, and fauna.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An authentic journey through Cyprus’s inland highlights

This excursion is a well-rounded day that balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and educational moments. It begins with a pickup from your Paphos hotel, where you’ll meet Stellios, the driver and guide whose friendly approach is often praised (as one reviewer said, “Stellio, the guide, is very friendly”). From there, the adventure quickly unfolds, taking you through some of the most picturesque and historically significant spots in Cyprus’s Limassol District.

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Starting at Asprokremmos Dam and Salamiou Village

Your first stop is the Asprokremmos Dam, a striking water body nestled against the mountains, offering views that highlight the interplay of man-made structures and natural landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for photos and to get a sense of the region’s water management and landscape formation.

Next, you’ll visit Salamiou Village, one of the traditional villages that seem to have stepped out of time. Here, expect narrow lanes, stone houses, and a glimpse into local life. The walk through these villages is short but charming, giving you a true taste of local Cypriot hospitality and architecture.

Exploring medieval history at Kelefos Bridge and Paphos Forest

The Kelefos Medieval Bridge is a highlight for history buffs. This structure, dating back centuries, offers both a scenic stop and a lesson in medieval engineering. Walking across the bridge is a fun and atmospheric experience, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Then, heading into Paphos Forest, you enter a vast expanse of greenery, where chances to spot Mouflons—a symbol of local wildlife—are quite good, especially if you’re lucky and quiet. The forest’s geology and flora are of worldwide interest, making this a particularly educational stop for those interested in earth sciences.

Visiting the Kykkos Monastery

The Kykkos Monastery is undoubtedly the tour’s spiritual and cultural centerpiece. Known as the richest and most popular monastery in Cyprus, it houses sacred icons and a beautifully preserved historical site. The guide provides context about its religious significance and history, making the visit more meaningful. Expect some quiet reflection time or to browse the local stalls selling religious icons and souvenirs.

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Lunch break in Pedoulas Village (optional, paid separately)

A highlight for many is the lunch break in Pedoulas Village, where you can opt for a traditional meal at your own expense. Reviewers often praise the generous portions and authentic flavors, making it a delightful culinary experience. It’s an opportunity to relax, recharge, and perhaps chat with fellow travelers about the morning’s discoveries.

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Reaching the mountain peaks and Omodos village

After lunch, the journey continues upward to the highest points of Cyprus, where ski resorts operate in winter. While the scenery here is stunning year-round, it offers a different perspective—mountain vistas and alpine flora.

Then, your route takes you to Omodos Village, famous for its wine production. Many guests enjoy a wine tasting (optional and paid separately), which offers a chance to sample Cyprus’s local varieties. Reviewers emphasize the quality of the wine and the friendly atmosphere of the tasting rooms.

The mythic birthplace of Aphrodite

The tour concludes near Aphrodite’s Rock, known as her legendary birthplace. While this site is more of a photo stop, it’s a fitting ending for a day dedicated to exploring Cyprus’s natural and mythological heritage.

The overall experience

Throughout the day, you’ll experience a combination of scenic drives, short walks, and cultural visits. The vehicle, a comfortable jeep, allows access to off-the-beaten-path locations that larger buses might miss. The small group size (limited to 8) ensures a relaxed atmosphere, where you can ask questions and get personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide, Stellios.

The tour’s focus on flora, fauna, geology, and archaeology means it appeals especially to curious travelers who enjoy learning about the natural sciences and history of the area. Reviews commend the guide’s expertise and friendly approach, often mentioning how much they appreciated the additional insights especially at sites like the Kelefos Bridge and the monastery.

Value and practical considerations

At approximately 8 hours, the tour offers a well-paced day with enough time at each major stop, making it ideal for those who want an immersive experience without feeling rushed. The cost includes hotel pickup, transport, and a guide, which adds convenience and value. Optional activities like lunch and wine tasting are paid separately but are highly recommended to deepen your experience.

Keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for very young children, wheelchair users, or those with mobility limitations, given the walking involved and the terrain at some stops. Also, bring comfortable shoes, water, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing for mountain weather.

The Sum Up

This jeep safari offers a compelling look at Cyprus’s inland treasures, blending natural beauty, history, and local culture into one memorable day. It’s particularly well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy learning about geology and archaeology while exploring scenic villages and mountains. The small group format and expert guide ensure an intimate and personalized experience, making it a great value for those seeking authentic Cyprus moments.

If you’re after a day that combines adventure, education, and cultural insight, this tour is hard to beat. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply eager to see more of Cyprus’s diverse landscape, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this fascinating island.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from hotels in Paphos, making it convenient to start your day without arranging transport.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, with starting times varying. You should check availability for specific departures.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, water, drinks, weather-appropriate clothing, and biodegradable insect repellent are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or for those over 95. Also, it may not be ideal for very young children due to walking and terrain.

Can I do the optional activities?
Yes, you can opt for lunch in Pedoulas and wine tasting in Omodos, but these are paid separately.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of scenic drives, short walks through villages, visits to historic sites, and the focus on flora, fauna, and geology.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight Stellios as friendly and well-informed, sharing insights about local history and natural sciences.

What’s the quality of transport?
The jeep is comfortable and allows access to areas larger vehicles can’t reach, enhancing the adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your arrangements.

In essence, this safari from Paphos to the Troodos Mountains offers a rich mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and educational value, all wrapped in an accessible, small-group format. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to experience Cyprus’s heartland with guided expertise and practical comfort.