Full Day Troodos Guided Safari Tour with Pick Up

Setting out on a full-day guided safari in the Troodos Mountains offers a fantastic way to see some of Cyprus’ most iconic sights while enjoying the comfort and insights of a knowledgeable guide. This tour, offered by Evis Bar / Evis Jeep Safari, packs in a variety of landmarks—from ancient bridges to serene waterfalls—within an 8.5-hour window. With pickup included and a moderate price point of just over $65 per person, it’s designed for travelers who crave a mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really makes this experience shine is the variety of stops and the personalized touch from guides like Vassos, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. However, some reviews point out that the experience can be uncomfortable or rushed if not managed well, especially on the longer, off-road sections. This tour suits those eager to explore Cyprus beyond the usual beaches—adventurers, culture lovers, and even wine enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering nature, history, and local culture
• Expert guides often noted for their friendliness and insight
• Value for money with included admissions, wine tasting, and transportation
• Flexible stops that can be adjusted based on weather and group preferences
• Comfort considerations vary, as some reviews mention jeep condition and seating comfort
• Ideal for active travelers who don’t mind some off-road driving and walking

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a full-day adventure that combines the scenic beauty of the Troodos Mountains with cultural highlights. Starting at 8:30 am, the journey lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including several stops, some optional activities, and a chance to sample Cyprus’ famous wine. The price of around $65 provides a good balance of value and experience, especially considering the many included admissions and amenities like hotel pickup and drop-off.

Transportation is via jeep or similar vehicle, accommodating up to 20 travelers. The small group size helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable, though some reviews mention that the jeep’s condition can vary. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the caveat that some stops involve walking and some off-road sections.

The Itinerary: From Dams to Divine Beauty

Stop 1: Water Dam and Troodos Forest

The tour kicks off with a photo stop at an impressive water dam, offering a quick but striking view of the mountains’ engineering marvels. This is followed by a drive through lush Troodos Forest, which provides a wonderful backdrop for photos and a sense of the region’s natural richness. Reviewers appreciate the scenic drive, with one mentioning how the views along the route are truly stunning and make for excellent photo opportunities.

Stop 2: Roudias Venetian Bridge

Next, the group visits the Roudias Venetian Bridge, a medieval relic that showcases Cyprus’ historic past. The 15-20 minute stop allows time for photos and a quick walk across the centuries-old structure. It’s a perfect example of how Cyprus layers its history in everyday scenery. Critics note that some stops, like the Venetian Bridge, may be brief but still worthwhile, especially for those interested in history.

Stop 3: Kykkos Monastery

The highlight for many is the Kykkos Monastery, a renowned religious site that features stunning Byzantine icons and artwork. The 35-minute stop here gives ample time to explore the church, absorb the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the intricate art. Many reviews mention this as a must-see, with some noting it exceeded expectations due to its size and the beauty of its interior.

Stop 4: Mount Olympus

Weather permitting, a 10-minute photo stop at Mount Olympus’ foothills offers breathtaking views of the mountain that, mythologically, was home to the gods. Though brief, this stop is highly valued for the photo opportunities and the sense of being in a truly elevated landscape.

Stop 5: Troodos Waterfalls

Nature lovers will appreciate the Troodos Waterfalls, a 15-20 minute stop showcasing the rugged beauty of Cyprus’ natural springs. Several reviewers comment on how these falls are a visual feast, perfect for a quick walk and some photos, even if the water flow varies seasonally.

Stop 6: Omodos Village and Holy Cross Monastery

Omodos is a charming village with cobbled streets, local crafts, and a spiritual highlight—the Monastery of Holy Cross. The 30-35 minute stop here is often praised for its authenticity, with visitors enjoying the chance to explore the village’s shops and perhaps try some local treats. It’s a great break from the busier sites, offering a glimpse into rural Cypriot life.

Stop 7: Aphrodite’s Rock and Winery

The final stops are a winery for a complimentary wine tasting, where many guests delight in sampling local varieties, and the birthplace of Aphrodite, where swimming is often an option if the weather allows. Several reviews highlight how this part of the tour is a highlight, with one reviewer noting that they enjoyed swimming at the famous rock during a sunset, describing it as a magical moment.

Highlights and Potential Drawbacks

The guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge—Vasos, in particular, is mentioned for making the day fun and engaging. Guests appreciated the variety of stops, from historic sites to natural wonders, and many found the included wine tasting a delightful bonus that added to the authentic Cyprus experience.

However, some reviews mention discomfort and logistical issues. A few experienced cramped jeep conditions, uncomfortable seating, or dissatisfaction with the vehicle’s condition. One guest pointed out that the jeep doors could open mid-drive, which might be unsettling for some. Plus, the pace can feel rushed—some stops are brief, especially considering the long driving hours, and there are reports of guides rushing or being less informative in some cases.

Timing is another consideration. The tour is extensive, and while most travelers feel it’s a well-organized day, a few felt the stops could be longer or better paced. The optional lunch break allows flexibility, but travelers should prepare to purchase their own meal if they wish to sit down.

The Value Proposition

At $65, including admissions, tasting, and transfers, this tour offers considerable value. You’re paying for a full day of exploration without the hassle of navigating alone, and the variety of sights ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Cyprus’ natural beauty and cultural history. The inclusion of free wine tasting and the chance to swim at Aphrodite’s Rock are memorable perks that many reviews highlight as highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari-style tour appeals most to adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers who don’t mind some off-road driving and walking. It’s also well-suited for those interested in local traditions—like the winery visit—and who want to see a broad swath of Cyprus’ diverse landscape in one day. If you prefer a more relaxed, less time-pressured experience, be aware that some stops are brief, and comfort can vary based on the vehicle.

Taking a full-day Troodos guided safari is an excellent way to explore Cyprus beyond the beach resorts. You’ll visit historic landmarks, enjoy stunning mountain vistas, and experience authentic local culture—all with the convenience of included transportation and insights from passionate guides. The tour’s value lies in its diversity and the opportunity to see parts of the island that are often overlooked by standard excursions.

While the vehicle comfort and pacing may not suit everyone, the overall experience offers an engaging and memorable look at Cyprus’ natural and cultural treasures. From the breathtaking waterfalls to the charming villages and the famous Aphrodite’s Rock, this tour is ideal for travelers eager to combine adventure with discovery—and a splash of local wine.

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

How long is the entire tour?
The official duration is approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops, but the entire day can extend to around 9 hours with transfers.

What should I bring?
Bring good walking shoes, a swimming costume if you want to swim at Aphrodite’s Rock, some water, and sun protection like sunscreen and a hat.

Are there any meal options?
Lunch is not included, but there is a one-hour break during which you can buy your own meal at a local tavern or cafe.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Some reviews mention the jeep can be quite cramped and in variable condition, with concerns about safety features like seatbelts. Prepare for a bumpy ride on off-road sections.

Can I customize the stops?
The tour is designed to be flexible, with optional stops and activities, based on weather and group preferences.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Many guests enjoy the combination of scenic mountain views, historic sites like Kykkos Monastery, and the unique experience of swimming at Aphrodite’s birthplace—if weather permits.

In essence, this guided safari offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Cyprus for those prepared for a full day of adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who value expert guides, scenic diversity, and a taste of local culture—and who don’t mind a bit of rugged travel.