Famagusta & Blue Lagoon Jeep Safari & Boat Combination

If you’re after a day packed with adventure, history, and ocean views, the Famagusta & Blue Lagoon Jeep Safari & Boat Combination might just be your perfect match. This tour offers a seamless blend of land and sea explorations, taking you beyond the usual tourist spots into the heart of Cyprus’ eastern coast. From wandering through the ghostly streets of Famagusta to swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, this trip promises both cultural insight and plenty of opportunity to relax and soak up the sun.

What truly stands out about this experience is the knowledgeable guides who keep things lively and informative, and the chance to see some of Cyprus’s most iconic sights from unique angles. That said, the tour does involve crossing the border into the Turkish-occupied North, which might require some travel documents and a bit of patience. It’s ideal for those curious about the island’s divided history while still craving a fun-filled day on the water and in scenic spots.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value authentic experiences, enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure, and don’t mind a full day on the move. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or simply seeking an exciting way to explore Cyprus, the combination of land and sea will likely hit the spot.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of history, sightseeing, and relaxation at sea.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides who add depth and humor to the day.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch and snorkeling equipment included, with optional shopping time.
• Cultural Insight: Pass by the haunted Varosha area and learn about Famagusta’s history.
• Stunning Locations: From Venetian walls to the glowing waters of Blue Lagoon.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Embarking on this full-day adventure means you’ll start early, with pickup from numerous centrally located hotels. Expect to meet your guide, who will be your friendly companion for the day. The first highlight is the Famagusta Viewpoint, where you’ll get a broad vista of the city and its infamous ghost town of Varosha. From here, you’ll learn about the city’s turbulent history and see the abandoned tourist area, which has become a symbol of Cyprus’s divided past.

The journey continues with a drive toward the border crossing at Deryneia. Crossing into the Turkish-occupied North of Cyprus is a significant moment—one that adds an extra layer of authenticity and insight. The drive past the ghost town of Varosha, where no visitors are allowed inside, is surreal and thought-provoking. While you won’t explore the abandoned streets, the guide’s commentary provides context about how life changed after 1974.

Next, you’ll arrive in Famagusta’s old city, a treasure trove of Venetian walls, narrow streets, and historical architecture. Here, you’re free to stroll, browse local shops, or relax at a café. A visit to the Othello Tower offers excellent photo opportunities with panoramic views from the top. The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge (one was even remembered by name in reviews!), make the history come alive with engaging stories.

As the midday sun heats up, the tour shifts gears—literally. You’ll hop into a jeep or SUV for a scenic drive along the coast, passing more noteworthy spots before reaching the beaches of Ayia Napa. Soon, you’ll board a boat for the highlight of the day: the cruise to the Blue Lagoon. The boat journey alone offers breathtaking views of sea caves and hidden coves along the coastline.

Once at the Blue Lagoon, you’ll have around two hours to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. The waters here are renowned for their clarity, making it perfect for snorkeling—equipment is provided free of charge, according to reviews that rave about the high-quality gear and the chance to see vibrant marine life. Reviewers also mention that the boat crew, including guides like George, kept the atmosphere fun and lively while serving a delicious lunch and complimentary local drinks.

Back on land, you’ll enjoy another jeep ride to explore more of the coast and possibly pick up some souvenirs. The day wraps up with a return to your hotel or preferred drop-off point, completing an itinerary that balances history, culture, and leisure.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start & Pickup: The tour begins early, with pickup options from a broad list of hotels in Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras. Expect to be picked up around 8:00-8:15 am, with a comfortable Landrover transporting your small group (limited to 10 participants). This small-group setting is one of the tour’s biggest advantages, fostering a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

Famagusta Viewpoint & Varosha: After a brief drive, you’ll stop at the Famagusta viewpoint. Here, guides share stories about the city’s past, including the dramatic story of Varosha. The haunting empty streets of the ghost town make for a striking visual, and the commentary adds depth that many reviewers appreciated, especially as guides like George and Andres brought history to life with humor and warmth.

Crossing into Northern Cyprus & Ghost Town: Passing Deryneia Crosspoint, you’ll cross into the Turkish-controlled North. The commentary here is more about the historical significance than in-depth political analysis, but the experience of seeing the border firsthand is memorable. The journey past Varosha, with its deserted hotels and streets, is described as surreal, with some reviews noting that while you don’t enter the town itself, the ride-by view is enough to leave an impression.

Famagusta Old City & Shopping: Once in Famagusta, the old city is a highlight. The Venetian walls, Othello Tower, and charming alleyways are perfect for photos or a quick coffee break. Reviewers appreciated the free time given here, with one noting the chance to relax, shop, or take more pictures.

Jeep Ride & Coastal Drive: After exploring Famagusta, a scenic drive along the coast in a Jeep or SUV takes you to the beaches, with stops at picturesque spots for photo ops and brief explorations. These rides, lasting between 15-30 minutes, add an adventurous touch and allow for spontaneous photo moments.

Boat Cruise & Blue Lagoon: The boat trip is a major highlight, with cruise duration around 2 hours. You’ll cruise past coves, sea caves, and turquoise waters, culminating at the Blue Lagoon. The waters here are so clear that reviewers describe the experience as mesmerizing. Snorkeling gear, provided free of charge, lets you explore underwater life, which some guests found to be a highlight, especially given the safety and quality of the equipment.

Lunch & Return: Onboard, a complimentary lunch prepared by the crew is served, including a vegetarian option, which many reviews praised. The lunch is paired with local drinks, making it a relaxed and social part of the day. The tour concludes with a jeep ride back to your hotel, with drop-off options at multiple locations.

Practical Details and What to Keep in Mind

Duration & Timing: The entire tour lasts around 8-9 hours, starting around 8 am. The schedule is full but flexible enough to give you ample time at each stop. If you’re sensitive to long days, consider how much sightseeing versus relaxing you prefer.

Transport & Comfort: The use of Landrover jeeps keeps things cozy and intimate, and the small group size enhances interaction with guides. Reviewers mention comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear as essentials—bring a towel for beach stops and snorkeling.

Value & Cost: Considering that the tour includes a guided experience, boat cruise, lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers, the price offers good value—especially given the positive reviews praising the guides and the quality of food and activities.

Border Crossing: Be prepared for a border crossing into the North, which might involve some passport checks. Ensure your travel documents are valid and check if any additional visas or permits are needed.

Guides & Staff: The guides, particularly George and Andres, consistently receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge. Their ability to recall guests’ names and keep the group engaged is a standout feature.

Authentic Experiences & Noteworthy Highlights

Many guests, including those who have reviewed the tour, felt that the guides’ storytelling and local knowledge elevated the experience. One reviewer specifically mentioned that George made everyone feel comfortable and remembered each person’s name from the start, which added a personal touch.

The Blue Lagoon cruise is often described as breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The onboard lunch, with vegetarian options, was noted to be tasty and generous, with some reviewers saying it exceeded expectations.

The Famagusta visit is more than just sightseeing; it’s a glimpse into Cyprus’s divided past, with the ghost town leaving a lasting visual impression. The opportunity to explore the old city and see the Venetian walls adds a layer of cultural appreciation to the day.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This combo tour offers a well-rounded experience for those who want to see Cyprus’s diverse highlights in one day. It’s particularly suitable for history enthusiasts, beach lovers, and anyone eager to experience the island’s contrasting landscapes—urban ruins, scenic coastlines, and crystal-clear waters. The small-group setting and friendly guides ensure you’ll feel comfortable and well-informed throughout.

If you enjoy a mix of adventure, cultural insight, and leisure, and don’t mind a full day on the move, this tour provides great value for money. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment, a delicious onboard lunch, and personalized guiding makes it stand out among day trips.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced experience or are sensitive to border crossings, you might want to consider whether a different tour suits your style. But for those ready for a full, fun, and educational day, this offers a genuine taste of Cyprus beyond the typical tourist path.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup is available from many hotels in Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca, with approximate pickup times at 8:00-8:15 am. If your hotel isn’t listed, you can ask for the nearest meeting point.

How long is the boat cruise to Blue Lagoon? The cruise lasts around 2 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard.

What should I bring for the trip? Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Are snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is available free of charge on board, allowing you to explore the waters of Blue Lagoon safely.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the small group size and family-friendly activities suggest it could be suitable for kids, provided they enjoy boat trips and outdoor exploration.

Do I need special documents to cross into Northern Cyprus? Your passport should be valid, and some reviews note crossing the border involves passport checks. Check your documents before the trip.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this tour combines history, adventure, and relaxation into one engaging day. It’s a great way to see a side of Cyprus that few get to experience, with knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and plenty of fun. Whether you’re into exploring old cities, lounging by turquoise waters, or enjoying a lively boat cruise, this trip hits many marks.