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Nature & wildlife · Matera

Top 6 nature & wildlife things to do in Matera

Wildlife, forests, gardens, and the green pockets of Matera that make it bearable in monsoon and beautiful by November. Day trips and short drives where the landscape is the point.

  1. Cooking class at a countryside farmhouse in Matera, Matera1

    1. Cooking class at a countryside farmhouse in Matera

    5.0· 87 reviews· 4 hours

    Half-day class focusing on traditional dishes using fresh organic ingredients from the farm, located in the Basilicata countryside.

    Silvia and Greg are incredibly welcoming. Silvia's cooking class is exceptional. If you're in Matera and enjoy cooking, this is an opportunity you shouldn't pass up.C5614RSalessandrog
  2. Panoramic bus tour of the Sassi of Matera with cave house visit, Matera2

    2. Panoramic bus tour of the Sassi of Matera with cave house visit

    4.9· 222 reviews· 1.5 hours

    Two hours by open bus — tour the Sassi of Matera, visit a cave house, and enjoy stunning views, including a 40-minute stop at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso.

    The guide and driver were outstanding. I share my thoughts as I see fit; I’m comfortable expressing my views in any length.ValentinSergio_F
  3. Relaxation at Poseidon Gardens in Ischia with transport, Matera3

    3. Relaxation at Poseidon Gardens in Ischia with transport

    4.8· 4 reviews· 8 hours

    A full day of relaxation including transport — access to 20 thermal pools, saunas, and beautiful sunbathing areas.

    Each year, we visit the Poseidon gardens because it's a perfect day on the island of Ischia. The thermal pools are fantastic, and the staff is both friendly and accommodating. The self-service lunch is excellent. Attention to detail is evident everywhere. I highly recommend it.Venture01828049810
  1. Trekking in Matera: Sassi, Murgia, and the Tibetan Bridge, Matera4

    4. Trekking in Matera: Sassi, Murgia, and the Tibetan Bridge

    4.7· 27 reviews· 2.5 hours

    Guided hike through the Sassi and Murgia plateau with Tibetan Bridge crossing; includes shuttle return to Matera.

    This trip was fantastic, largely thanks to our guide Claudio, who was both knowledgeable and entertaining. Be prepared for a solid hike with appropriate shoes and water, but with Claudio leading, you are well taken care of.peter_l
  2. Guided sunset walking tour in Matera's Murgia Timone, Matera5

    5. Guided sunset walking tour in Matera's Murgia Timone

    4.7· 116 reviews· 2.5 hours

    Three hours, guided walking tour — explore Murgia Timone and Belvedere with transfer from central Matera, including entry tickets and visits to ancient churches.

    This tour was wonderful, and I highly recommend it, especially since it caters to both children and seniors. Our guide, Francesco, was an extremely knowledgeable archaeologist and shared great stories from films as well.monicatD3928TL
  3. Murgia Park and Sassi di Matera sunset tour, Matera6

    6. Murgia Park and Sassi di Matera sunset tour

    4.7· 30 reviews· 2.5 hours

    Three hours with a local guide — scenic trails, ancient caves, rock churches and stunning views of the Sassi at sunset.

    Having previously enjoyed an excursion with this operator, I opted for the Murgia Materana tour this time. Once again, our guide, Federico, provided a fascinating experience, revealing a different aspect of Matera's history with insights into its geological, botanical, faunal, and religious significance. The two-hour tour concluded beautifully with a breathtaking view of the sunset over the city from the caves, as the lights began to illuminate the landscape. The walk through nature and the caves was delightful—there's an alternative outdoor option for those with claustrophobia—making it suitable for participants of all ages. Reaching the Murgia takes just five minutes via comfortable buses departing from Passi nei Sassi’s base, with a cost of 25 euros per person.LauraM978

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