Nat Geo Day Tour: The Life and Work of Sculptor Philippos Yiapanis

Off-Road Akamas Peninsula Tour 

With exclusive access to the wild side of western Cyprus, this guided quad or buggy safari tours will take you to all the key sights. Experience the Paphos Sea Caves, Chapel of Agios Georgios, Akamas Peninsula and even indulge in a turtle watching session at Lara Bay, topped off with a refreshing swim.

Aphrodite Waterpark with Transport

Keep cool and enjoy the watery thrills on an excursion to one of Cyprus's best water parks. Spend the day at Aphrodite Waterpark in Paphos hurtling down high-octane rides or enjoying more sedate options – with dedicated kids' areas and a range of eateries ensuring a perfect family day out.

Aphrodite Waterpark Paphos Ticket

Keep cool and enjoy the watery thrills on an excursion to one of Cyprus's best water parks. Spend the day at Aphrodite Waterpark in Paphos hurtling down high-octane rides or enjoying more sedate options – with dedicated kids' areas and a range of eateries ensuring a perfect family day out.

Nat Geo Day Tour: The Life and Work of Sculptor Philippos Yiapanis

Philippos Yiapanis, a renowned Cypriot sculptor, was born in Famagusta in what is now the occupied Northern part of Cyprus. His life took a tumultuous turn when he was captured and incarcerated during the Turkish invasion, subsequently becoming a refugee in South Cyprus. His artistry is a manifestation of his deep longing for freedom and a vivid representation of local history. On this tour, you will meet the artist who will lead you on an exclusive visit to his museum where around 140 sculptures are on display. As well as discovering the inspiration behind some of his most powerful works, you'll also find out about the recent history of Cyprus and explore the artist's personal experiences, narrated through his compelling storytelling. On arrival at the Art Nest Museum, Philippos will welcome you personally, providing an insight into his life and work, giving you an understanding of the emotions that underpin his creations. You will then take time to explore the open-air sculpture park, and finish with a peek at the artistic process. A tour of the artist's workshop reveals his techniques for working in bronze, chosen to ensure the longevity of his pieces, to reflect the connection between Cyprus and copper, and to represent his enduring hope for unity in his divided homeland. Round off the experience enjoying local cuisine prepared in Kouklia village, reflecting on Cyprus's unique fusion of art, history, and culinary tradition.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Two Sides, One Story - Insights from Journalists on the Division of the Nation

Get a fresh perspective on the latest events in Cyprus on this National Geographic Day Tour led by two journalists, one Greek-Cypriot and one Turkish-Cypriot, who will give you rare, behind-the-scenes insights. Start by exploring the restored village of Moutallos. Immerse yourself in its stories as you meander through the narrow alleys and witness the transformation of the area, with rehabilitated buildings that bear remnants of Turkish names, symbolizing respect for the other community. Pause for a photo stop at the historic Agia Sophia mosque, formerly a Christian church. The tour then leads you to Ibrahim's Khan, a refurbished Ottoman inn. It now houses craft units and a theater. The main entrance showcases exquisite creations of embroidery, jointly made by women from both communities, illustrating their desire for cooperation and reunification. In the courtyard of the Khan, engage in an interactive debate directed by your two journalist guides —one Greek-Cypriot and one Turkish-Cypriot. Together, you'll explore Cyprus' recent past, investigating the causes behind the enduring division and contemplating potential paths toward unity. See the contrast between old and new as you embrace the mix of vendors and workshops in the Khan's surroundings. Then, admire the renovated Ottoman Baths, part of a heritage preservation project. Conclude by savoring the simple yet true flavors that are offered in family homes, accompanied by a cup of Cypriot, Turkish, or Greek coffee, served in the oldest coffee establishment in Paphos.

Pafos Zoo Ticket

From tigers, lions and giraffes to penguins, monkeys and more, Pafos Zoo is a giant playground where kids can run wild and discover over 500 species of animals. You'll get to spend a few hours exploring the zoo at your own pace – a great day out for the whole family.

Blue Lagoon Sea Star Cruise

The mesmerising Blue Lagoon is Mediterranean perfection. On this full day cruise, you'll sail along the Akamas peninsula to swim, snorkel and enjoy lunch onboard in one of the most idyllic locations in Cyprus. First up you'll be taken by coach to Latchi Harbour - the starting point for your cruise. Hop onboard and sail to the star of the show – the Blue Lagoon. Take the plunge and cool down in the crystal-clear waters. Then refuel with a tasty lunch on board.Making our way towards Paphos Harbour, you'll glide past Cape Arnaouti, spot sea caves and secluded bays roll by as well as St George's Isle. Admire the picturesque coastline of the Akamas peninsula while you relax and soak up the sunrays. And on the way back, we'll stop for another swim around Coral Bay, depending on the weather.

Caledonia Waterfalls Tour with Lunch

The lush, cool forest that carpets the Troodos Mountains is an ideal escape near Paphos. A perfect contrast to the beach, you'll journey along a scenic route into the hills, where your destination is the village of Platres. Here, you'll set off on a 3km hike along the stream to the Caledonia Falls, followed by a traditional lunch at Psilo Dendro restaurant. Andri, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll enjoy the journey as much as the destination on this hike, which follows and criss-crosses a stream over a series of little bridges all the way to the waterfall.'We'll get the tour started on a refreshing note with a stop at Kolossi Fruit Garden. Here you'll have the chance to try some fresh lemonade and buy fruit before continuing further into the mountains to the pretty hilltop village of Platres. This is the starting point for the nature trail, which traces the bubbling Kryos Potamos stream through the trees. You'll be glad of sturdy footwear as you head along the scenic trail, which is quite uneven in places with some rocks, roots and rivulets to keep it interesting.It's a forest walk in dappled shade, leading through a variety of gnarly trees including pines and strawberry trees. Once you reach the Caledonia Falls, you'll be able to take a break - and have a paddle if you wish - at the shaded freshwater pool, then continue to the famous Psilo Dendro restaurant with its very own trout farm. Relax over lunch – needless to say, trout is a speciality – and end the day on a high.

Evening Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner

Tasty meze, music and dancing – this trip has all the ingredients for a right old Cypriot night. And if that wasn't enough, it all comes after a drink overlooking Aphrodite's Rock – birthplace of the mythical goddess of love. Alexia, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘At the taverna, you'll get together with the locals and feel their culture and dance. Nothing is better than the 100% authentic cuisine cooked by the women of the village, just like they cook at home.' Join us for a knees-up to remember in one of the area's most popular tavernas.We'll kick off with a short drive towards Petra tou Romiou – as Aphrodite's Rock is known locally. Clink glasses at this mythical sea stack and enjoy the evening light while sipping on a sparkling wine. ‘A celebration in honour of the goddess,' as Alexia says. You'll then head to the village of Kouklia, a short drive inland from the coast, for a Cypriot dinner with a difference.A first sight, it's a typical family-run taverna. You'll get to savour just about every Cypriot dish you could possibly wish for. The emphasis is on pure ingredients and traditional meze – cooked the way they've been for generations – washed down with local wines. But on summer evenings, the family takes over the street, hosting feasts of folkloric music and dancing. Let your hair down and join the locals with some boogying and shaking on the outdoor terrace. As nights out go, it's a showstopper.

Kourion Ruins, Kolossi Castle and Winery Visit

The myths of Cyprus come to life on this tour. You'll see where a legend was born, visit the ruins of Kourion, venture to the village of Omodos and cap off the day with a tasting at a family-run winery. Eva, one of our local guides, says of this excursion, ‘You'll wander through layers of history, culture and mythology, and learn about Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The rituals connected with her as well as the plants and seashells associated with her.'You'll dive straight into the past to see Petra tou Romiou, a sea stack where, local legend has it, the goddess Aphrodite was born. The ancient past takes on a more tangible form at Kourion, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Cyprus. Visit its Roman baths and amble into its centrepiece, the Greco-Roman theatre. It's still used for concerts. And up next is the Crusader-built Kolossi Castle, which belonged to the Knights Templar from the 14th century.Lunch is in a family-owned restaurant. It's as famed for its country fare made from locally sourced ingredients as it is for its scenic location in the hills. Then, we'll head to the mountain-nestled village of Omodos, where you'll have free time to wander around skinny cobbled streets lined with Byzantine buildings. And to round off the day, we'll visit the winery. Here, you'll sample some of its award-winning wines, including the commandaria variety, which Richard the Lionheart baptised as the ‘wine of kings and the king of wines'.