Tour of the Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi at sunset

Travelers searching for an experience that combines spectacular scenery, history, and a touch of adventure will find this tour of the Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi at sunset a perfect fit. While it’s not the typical crowded sightseeing route, this half-day excursion takes you on a walk among rugged canyons, ancient caves, and rock-cut churches, all just a short drive from Matera’s famous Sassi.

What makes this tour stand out? We especially love the authenticity of the experience, the expert local guides who bring stories to life, and the breathtaking sunset views of the Sassi that elevate the entire experience. The chance to see lesser-known sites far from tourist crowds adds a genuine touch of discovery. However, some travelers might find the walking route slightly challenging if they’re not used to light trekking. This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and history buffs eager to see Matera’s wild side.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Away from crowded tourist hotspots, exploring hidden corners of Murgia Materana.
• Stunning Views: Unparalleled vistas of the Sassi illuminated by sunset, perfect for photos.
• Expert Guides: Local storytellers sharing insights into history, culture, and nature.
• Small Groups: Personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Historical Sites: Visits to rock churches and prehistoric caves carved into the landscape.
• Nature & Wildlife: Chance to spot local animals like kestrels, foxes, and hares amid Mediterranean flora.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This 2-hour guided walk is designed to showcase the wild beauty and ancient secrets of the Murgia, right on the doorstep of Matera’s famed Sassi. Starting from one of two convenient meeting points—either Passi nei Sassi or a nearby location—you’ll hop on a short bus ride to the park, setting the tone for relaxed exploration.

The Scenic Route and Stops

The core of the tour is a walk through spectacular canyons and prehistoric caves, with your guide narrating stories of rural life, religious history, and the landscape’s formation. Expect to visit rock churches with frescoes dating back a thousand years and caves that have been inhabited since prehistoric times. These sites are often carved directly into the limestone, with some traces of frescoes still visible, offering a glimpse into ancient spiritual practices.

The guided portion is packed with stories about local traditions and the ways of life for past inhabitants—details that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. One reviewer, Eloise, shared that her guide’s storytelling made the walk unforgettable, even without knowing Italian: “We had the best experience due to our lovely guide who showed us a beautiful walk through the park.”

The Landscape and Flora

As you stroll through the Mediterranean scrub, you’ll encounter fragrant herbs like wild thyme, oregano, and broom, which add to the sensory pleasure of the walk. Orchid flowers might peek through, and if luck is on your side, you’ll spot the lesser kestrel, the park’s symbol, soaring overhead. The landscape is dotted with foxes, hares, and other wildlife, making this more than just a scenic stroll.

Sunset Magic

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the sunset. From the vantage point of Murgia, you’ll witness the Sassi di Matera bathed in a golden glow—an image that’s both romantic and profoundly moving. The views are so breathtaking that many consider it one of the most beautiful sights in Italy. Photographers will be delighted, as the low sunlight casts a warm hue over the ancient city, creating perfect conditions for capturing memorable shots.

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Logistics and Practical Details

The tour lasts around 2 hours, with a moderate easy to medium difficulty level. The walking involves navigating ancient paths, canyons, and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes or hiking boots are recommended. The tour is conducted in Italian and English, with small group sizes ensuring a relaxed and personalized experience.

Included in the price are the transportation from Matera to the park and back, a knowledgeable local guide, visits to rock churches and caves, and the chance to hear stories about the area’s nature, history, and traditions. It’s a package that provides excellent value considering the private access to sites that are usually closed to the public.

What to Bring

To make the most of this experience, pack comfortable walking shoes, a camera or smartphone for photos, water, sunscreen, and a hat. The tour doesn’t provide food or snacks, so bringing some along might enhance your experience, especially during the sunset vista.

Accessibility and Considerations

The route involves some light trekking, which might not suit those with limited mobility. Also, the activity is unsuitable for travelers with mobility impairments, given the uneven terrain.

Authenticity and Uniqueness of the Experience

Unlike typical touristic excursions, this experience emphasizes authenticity and discovery. As one reviewer noted, the tour allows you to see the real Matera, far from the crowded streets and commercialized sites. The fact that the tour is led by expert local guides ensures you’ll hear stories and insights you won’t find in guidebooks.

The small group format means fewer crowds, more interaction, and the chance to ask questions or linger at spots that pique your interest. You’ll get a personalized perspective, making this a memorable outing for those keen to connect with the local landscape and history.

The Value for Money

With a price that covers transportation, expert guiding, and exclusive access to historic sites, this tour offers great value. The sunset viewing alone makes it worthwhile, providing a unique setting to appreciate Matera from a rare vantage point. Considering the experience’s intimacy, the storytelling, and the photo opportunities, many travelers find it well worth the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy light trekking and scenic vistas, photographers eager for stunning sunset shots, and history buffs curious about prehistoric caves and ancient churches. It’s also an excellent choice for those wanting an authentic and less crowded alternative to more commercialized tours.

However, if you prefer fully accessible tours or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re pressed for time and looking for a quick overview of Matera’s main sights, this tour’s focus on natural scenery might not cover the extensive history of the city itself.

Final Thoughts

The Tour of the Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi at sunset offers a balanced mix of stunning natural beauty, cultural insight, and intimate exploration. It’s a chance to see Matera from a different perspective—away from crowds, into the wild, and into history. The combination of panoramic views, fascinating caves, and a captivating sunset makes it a memorable addition to any trip in Basilicata.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and meaningful experience, this tour delivers in spades. It’s particularly suited for those eager to venture off the beaten path and discover the soul of Matera’s landscape and its ancient past.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including transportation to and from the park.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, a local expert guide, entry to rock churches and caves, and a scenic walk with storytelling are included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Given the walking and light trekking involved, it’s best suited for older children and adults comfortable with uneven terrain.

Do I need special clothing or shoes?
Yes, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended, and dress according to the weather, with sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.

Can I join if I don’t speak Italian?
Absolutely, guides operate in both Italian and English, making this accessible for non-Italian speakers.

What is the best time for sightseeing?
The sunset is the highlight, so planning your tour around late afternoon hours will maximize the experience.

Are there any accessibility issues?
The tour involves light trekking on uneven paths, so it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

To sum it up, this sunset tour of the Murgia offers an authentic and captivating way to experience Matera’s wild, ancient landscape. Whether you’re a photography fan, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape into nature, you’ll find this experience well worth your time.

You can check availability for your dates here: