Ajaccio/Porticcio: Scandola Nature Reserve Guided Boat Tour

The Scandola Nature Reserve offers a breathtaking boat tour that departs from Ajaccio or Porticcio. For just $73.14 per person, visitors can enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage site, witness stunning rock formations, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the charming town of Girolata. With over a thousand reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and scenic wonders, this full-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience. But the real question is, what secrets does the Scandola Reserve hold, waiting to be discovered?

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Key Points

This guided boat tour departs from Ajaccio or Porticcio and explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Scandola Nature Reserve.
The full-day tour includes a 2-hour lunch stop in Girolata and opportunities to see rock formations, endemic flora, and birdlife.
The tour is priced at $73.14 per person and allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour starts from either 2 Quai de la République or Plage de la Viva Beach, and drop-off is at either location.
With an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 1,119 reviews, the tour is praised for its scenic beauty, knowledgeable staff, and good value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Scandola Nature Reserve Guided Boat Tour departs from Ajaccio or Porticcio, offering a full-day experience for $73.14 per person.

Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s no need to pay upfront – simply reserve your spot and pay later.

The tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Scandola Nature Reserve and the Gulf of Porto, with a 2-hour stop in Girolata for lunch.

Guests can discover the area’s rock formations, endemic flora, and birdlife.

The tour departs from and returns to the Plage de la Viva Beach or 2 Quai de la République.

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Itinerary and Highlights

A full-day boat tour departs from either Ajaccio or Porticcio, allowing guests to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Scandola Nature Reserve and the Gulf of Porto.

During the tour, visitors will enjoy a 2-hour stop in Girolata for lunch. Along the way, they’ll discover the rock formations of Calanche de Piana and Capo Rosso Tower.

The tour also offers opportunities to experience the endemic flora and birdlife found within the nature reserve.

With its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, this boat tour provides a unique and immersive way to discover the beauty of this protected coastal region.

Meeting Points and Drop-off Locations

Two starting locations are available for the Scandola Nature Reserve boat tour: 2 Quai de la République and Plage de la Viva Beach. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked. At the end of the tour, the drop-off will be at either Plage de la Viva Beach or 2 Quai de la République.

| Starting Locations | Drop-off Locations |

| — | — |

| 2 Quai de la République | Plage de la Viva Beach |

| Plage de la Viva Beach | 2 Quai de la République |

Be sure to confirm the meeting point before the tour, as it may change based on the booking option selected.

Inclusions and Recommendations

Guided Boat Tour of Scandola Nature Reserve includes the boat tour, tour guide, and free time in Girolata.

Visitors should bring their own food for lunch, as restaurants in Girolata may be closed during low season.

The tour provides an opportunity to discover the endemic flora and birdlife in the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While the scenic views and friendly staff are highlights, the long boat ride may be taxing for young children.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the guided boat tour of the Scandola Nature Reserve, with an impressive overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 1,119 reviews.

Customers particularly commended the tour guide, who received a rating of 4.6 out of 5.

Other highlights include:

The scenic beauty of the nature reserve and its stunning rock formations.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff.
The good value for money.

However, some noted that the long boat ride may be challenging for young children.

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Tour Duration and Cancellation Policy

The Scandola Nature Reserve guided boat tour lasts a full day, departing from either Ajaccio or Porticcio.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to change their plans without penalty. Customers can also reserve their spot now and pay later, convenient for those wanting to secure their tour.

With a duration of approximately 1 day, the guided boat tour provides ample time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site and its stunning landscapes.

The flexible cancellation policy and pay-later option make this tour an accessible and hassle-free experience for visitors.

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site

As the boat traverses the pristine waters of the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, passengers can’t help but be awed by the dramatic rock formations and vibrant marine life that surround them.

Some highlights of the tour include:

Discovering the Calanche de Piana, a stunning coastal landscape with towering, rust-colored cliffs.
Seeing the Capo Rosso Tower, an ancient Genoese watchtower perched atop a rugged headland.
Spotting endemic species like the Corsican shag and the Corsican nuthatch within the nature reserve’s lush vegetation.

The guided boat tour offers an up-close look at this natural wonder, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the reserve’s remarkable beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Boat Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat tour may not be fully wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility limitations should contact the tour operator to inquire about accessibility accommodations before booking. Some modifications or assistance may be available, but the tour’s infrastructure may present challenges for wheelchair users.

Can Children Under 5 Years Old Participate?

Children under 5 are welcome on the tour but may find the long boat ride tiring. The tour operator recommends parents consider their child’s age and stamina before booking. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer discounts for seniors or students. The standard pricing of $73.14 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status. There are no special discounts available for this guided boat tour.

What Language(S) Are the Tour Guides Fluent In?

The tour guides are fluent in French, with some also speaking English. The level of English proficiency may vary, so guests should inquire about the language capabilities when booking their tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The price provided for the tour doesn’t include any additional fees or taxes. It covers the boat tour, tour guide, and free time in Girolata. There are no hidden costs.

The Sum Up

The Scandola Nature Reserve boat tour from Ajaccio or Porticcio offers a chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. With stunning rock formations, wildlife, and a relaxing lunch stop, it’s a full-day adventure highly praised by past participants. At $73.14 per person, it’s an opportunity to explore the unique landscapes and flora of this remarkable natural wonder.