Avakas Gorge Nature Trail

Take part in a full-day excursion as you explore the coastline with a guide on board a 4x4 Land Rover. See the Blue Lagoon, swim in the crystal clear waters, visit Turtle Beach, and witness sea caves up close. Start the day with a convenient pickup service from your accommodation. From here you will head off-road into Akamas to begin visiting your first location. Discover Thalassines Spiles, a quirky part of the coastline that is full of fascinating wind-sculpted rock formations. See the Banana Plantation, an area close to the Akamas Region where you can get a glimpse into what makes the Cypriot Banana so special. Visit the Avagas Gorge and walk in a gorge well known for its 30-metre-high limestone walls. Marvel at rich vegetation and fresh springs that create an atmosphere of positivity that will last you the rest of the day. See Lara Bay, a location well known as one of the most important breeding sites in the Mediterranean for the Green Back Turtle and Caretta-Caretta. Continue on to a viewpoint which is one of the highest points in the region where you will enjoy great views over the Peninsula. After a lunch break in Latchi, visit the Baths of Aphrodite where legend has it she would come to bathe and take care of her eternal beauty. Stop at the famous Blue Lagoon for a swim in the crystal-clear waters that never cease to amaze. Drive through typical traditional villages in the wine region of Paphos where we will visit a winery in the winter season (if/when swimming in the Blue Lagoon is not possible) while on route back to your accommodation.

Your first stop is a marvel of nature carved by the relentless sea – the Sea Caves along Agiou Geogiou Road. The turquoise water shimmers against sculpted rock, and you feel a thrill of anticipation for the adventures to come. Next, you'll venture into the heart of Avakas Gorge. Its towering limestone walls create a sense of awe, the air cool and dappled with sunlight filtering through the leaves. Breathe in the earthy scent of the wilderness as you hike deeper into this breathtaking natural wonder. Emerging from the gorge, you'll arrive at Lara Beach, a haven for nesting turtles. As your guide explains the conservation efforts protecting these gentle creatures, a sense of the island's rich natural heritage washes over you. From here, the landscape begins to change as your Jeep ascends into the rugged beauty of the Akamas Peninsula. Feel the wind in your hair as your guide shares tales of its unique flora and fauna, this untouched wilderness stretching out before you. Suddenly, you're there - the dazzling Blue Lagoon! Jump into its crystal-clear waters, the cool embrace a welcome respite from the sun. Snorkel among vibrant fish, or simply float and soak in this idyllic paradise. After your aquatic adventure, it's time for a touch of mythology. At the Baths of Aphrodite, legend whispers that the goddess herself bathed in this tranquil grotto. Lush greenery surrounds the natural pool, where the gentle sound of water creates a truly enchanting atmosphere. Your next destination, Adonis Baths Waterfalls, holds a different kind of beauty. The cascading water invites you to refresh yourself, and the surrounding natural beauty is the perfect backdrop to relax for a while. Finally, you'll return to the Baths of Aphrodite for a deeper exploration. Wander the botanical gardens, imagining the vibrant world of ancient deities as you discover the rich tapestry of plants and history in this special place. As the sun begins to set, casting long shadows, you realize you haven't just seen Cyprus; you've felt its raw power, explored its legends, and discovered its vibrant heart. With newfound knowledge, a camera full of photos, and a heart filled with the warmth of your newfound 'family', you return from your Akamas journey changed forever.

Embark on an exhilarating half-day jeep safari adventure to the breathtaking Akamas Peninsula, where nature's wonders await at every turn. Your journey begins with a thrilling exploration of the limestone sea caves of Peyia, where the rugged coastline meets the azure Mediterranean Sea in a dramatic display of beauty. As you continue your expedition, the haunting silhouette of the Edro III shipwreck emerges, a testament to the raw power of the sea and a captivating sight against the backdrop of the peninsula's rugged terrain. Next, you'll journey to the pristine Turtle Bay of Lara, where endangered sea turtles find sanctuary in the secluded shores. Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a humbling experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. The adventure continues with a short but unforgettable walk into the majestic Avakas Gorge, where towering cliffs and lush vegetation form a dramatic landscape of unparalleled beauty. With each step, you'll be immersed in the untamed wilderness of the Akamas Peninsula, forging memories to last a lifetime. Concluding your expedition at the legendary Adonis Baths and Waterfalls, a tranquil oasis nestled amidst the verdant wilderness. Here, the crystal-clear waters invite you to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature and uncover the myths that shroud this ancient site. Avakas Gorge is weather permitted accessible in winter times. If the weather doesn't permit the walking, we will replace it with a visit to Turtle Museum or a traditional village.

The itinerary takes in all the ‘’must-see’’ sites and landscapes of this spectacular environmental wonderland. • The Avakas Gorge: Perhaps Cyprus’ most impressive natural wonder, this deep canyon is famous for the sheer walls of limestone that come narrowly together to form a natural tunnel. A not-too-strenuous walk, duration of 30-40 minutes in total, is required to see the best parts of the Gorge. Decent footwear is advised. • Lara and the Turtle Conservation Project: We visit one of the most important (and pristine) beaches in the entire Mediterranean, Lara Beach, where the Cyprus Turtle Conservation Project has been saving endangered sea turtles from extinction for three decades. Learn the secrets of these sensitive and delightful sea creatures as we take you through the conservation exhibits at the beach. (Note: Turtle nesting season is June-August; the nests hatch until early October.) • The Viewpoint: Fantastic views of the beautiful surrounding areas of the Akamas Peninsula and a great opportunity to take some amazing photos. • The Blue Lagoon: The North-West peninsula has the most memorable coastline in Cyprus, the incredibly clear turquoise waters, precipitous forested sea cliffs and varied wildlife create a magic landscape with visual impact. To experience this area at its best, we board our special boat to tour the various coves and off-shore islands, look for sea turtles and sponges and stop at the ‘’bluest bay in Cyprus’’ for a relaxed swimming session. • The Lunch: Included in this adventure package is an extremely memorable lunch featuring an array of freshly prepared local dishes including vegetarian options. Wine, water and lemonade are served complimentary in this all-inclusive meal taken in a comfortable and clean restaurant. • This full-day adventure includes several sections of “off-road” driving. Dust and bumps are part of the process. • Adverse weather conditions and/or other factors beyond our control may cause the cancellation of the boat portion of this program. Don’t forget to bring your cameras for unforgettable photos.

Embark on an exhilarating jeep safari adventure to the breathtaking Akamas Peninsula, where nature's wonders await at every turn. Your journey begins with a thrilling exploration of the limestone sea caves of Peyia, where the rugged coastline meets the azure Mediterranean Sea in a dramatic display of beauty. As you continue your expedition, the haunting silhouette of the Edro III shipwreck emerges, a testament to the raw power of the sea and a captivating sight against the backdrop of the peninsula's rugged terrain. Next, journey to the pristine Turtle Bay of Lara, where endangered sea turtles find sanctuary in the secluded shores. Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a humbling experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. The adventure continues with a short but unforgettable walk into the majestic Avakas Gorge, where towering cliffs and lush vegetation form a dramatic landscape of unparalleled beauty. With each step, you'll be immersed in the untamed wilderness of the Akamas Peninsula, forging memories to last a lifetime. Arriving at Bath of Aphrodite. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a leisurely exploration of the coastline and the botanical garden or to have a swimming in the crystal clear turquoise water. Enjoy a moment of relaxation in the serene surroundings, where you can touch the magical waterfall where Aphrodite Goddess was bathing. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Adonis Waterfalls. Your private jeep can bring you as close as possible to the falls, where you can embark on a short hike to appreciate the natural beauty, the tranquility of this location and a refreshing swimming. This being a private trip we can tailor the trip according to your needs. Avakas Gorge is weather permitted during the winter time. If weather does not allow we will replace it with Turtle Museum visit or traditional village.