Review of Breakfast with Parrots at Masseria Mazzetta with Wildlife Park
Imagine starting your day with the cheerful chatter of parrots and the elegance of Spanish horses—all set amidst the rustic charm of Apulia. That’s exactly what this experience offers: a delightful morning that combines wildlife, education, and a hearty breakfast, all at a very reasonable price of around $23 per person. The setting is the lovely Masseria Mazzetta, located in Salice Salentino, and the tour is guided by knowledgeable staff like Danoch, who makes the experience feel warm and authentic.
What I really appreciate about this tour is how accessible and family-friendly it feels. First, the breakfast in the Falconer’s Court is not just a meal; it’s an introduction to the world of birds with the company of colorful parrots. Second, the chance to see over 50 birds of prey, like eagles, hawks, and storks, in their aviaries offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and diversity of bird life—something you won’t find in typical breakfast tours. That said, the tour duration is quite short—about 3 minutes to check availability and start times—so it’s best suited for those with flexible schedules or a day planned around other attractions.
A potential consideration for travelers is that, while the introduction is charming, the actual tour is fairly brief—about two hours of guided exploration. If you’re looking for a full-day wildlife escapade, you’d need to plan additional activities. But if you’re after a relaxed, educational, and visually stunning morning, this experience delivers more than enough value.
Key Points / Takeaways
– Unique Morning Setting: You get to enjoy breakfast surrounded by parrots, which makes for a memorable start to the day.
– Extensive Bird Variety: Over 50 species of birds of prey in their aviaries means plenty of opportunities for incredible bird-watching.
– Educational Value: Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll learn about the different bird species and their roles in nature.
– Elegant Spanish Horses: The visit includes an insightful walk through the stables, where Spanish horses show off their beauty and grace.
– Family Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for all ages, with wheelchair access and guides speaking English, Italian, and Spanish.
– Great Value for the Price: For $23, including breakfast and guided tours, it’s a solid deal considering the quality of the experience and the variety of wildlife.
Entering the Falconer’s Court: A Warm Welcome to Wildlife
As you arrive at Masseria Mazzetta, you’re greeted by a peaceful, rural landscape that feels like stepping into a different world. The Falconer’s Court, a newly established area, sets the tone for a morning of discovery. The staff, including guides like Danoch, are friendly, eager to share their knowledge, and genuinely passionate about their birds and horses.
Your journey begins with a hearty breakfast in the company of parrots. This isn’t just about feeding birds; it’s about engaging with these intelligent creatures in a relaxed setting. The parrots, often colorful and lively, are used to human interaction, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. The environment is comfortably arranged so you can observe the parrots close-up while enjoying your morning meal.
Following the breakfast, the tour continues outdoors, where you’ll explore aviaries housing over 50 species of birds of prey. The guides lead you through the different enclosures, pointing out the various eagles, hawks, storks, and more. It’s an educational walk that combines visual beauty with insights about the habits and conservation status of each species. The variety of birds is impressive—some with wingspan stretches that will make your neck crane, and others with striking plumage.
The Aviaries: A Bird of Prey Showcase
The highlight for many visitors is undoubtedly the extensive collection of birds of prey. Seeing these magnificent creatures up close gives a new appreciation for their role in ecosystems and their incredible hunting skills. You might find yourself marveling at the size and grace of a soaring eagle or the sharp gaze of a hawk.
The guides do a good job balancing informative commentary with the opportunity for photos. If you’re a photography enthusiast, bring your zoom lens! The aviaries are well-maintained, and the staff are willing to answer questions. According to some reviews, the staff’s expertise adds value—guides like Danoch make everyone feel welcome and provide fascinating tidbits about each species.
The Spanish Horse Stables: Elegance on Hooves
No wildlife tour would be complete without mentioning the Spanish horses at the stables. The walk through these elegant animals offers a different kind of charm. Expect to see horses with a proud carriage, well-groomed manes, and a calm demeanor that speaks of good care and training.
The guide-led walk gives insights into the history of these horses, their training, and their role in local culture. Observing them in their paddocks, you’ll appreciate their beauty and strength—great for horse lovers or those curious about equine culture in Italy.
Logistics and Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go
The whole experience lasts about two hours after breakfast, with the option to spend additional time at your leisure. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which makes it welcoming to guests with mobility concerns. It’s recommended to reserve by phone at 3394508563, especially during peak seasons, as their schedule can fill up quickly.
The tour price of $23 per person includes the breakfast, guided walks, and entry to the aviaries and stables. Given the quality of the wildlife encounters and the personal attention from guides, this is quite good value. Do note that the starting times vary, so checking availability in advance is wise.
If you’re traveling with children, they’ll likely love the parrots and the chance to see birds of prey in flight. For adults, the experience offers a peaceful break from more bustling tourist sites, with plenty of opportunities for learning and photography.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, nature, and authentic local culture. It’s especially great for families, bird enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the fascinating world of birds and horses. If you’re looking for a relaxed morning activity that combines education with scenic beauty, this is an ideal choice.
It’s less suited for those seeking a full-day adventure or highly physical activities. Also, since the tour is quite brief, don’t expect a comprehensive wildlife experience—think of it more as a delightful introduction.
Final Thoughts
Breakfast with parrots at Masseria Mazzetta offers a charming blend of nature, education, and good food. The setting is authentic, the guides are friendly, and the variety of birds is impressive. For just over twenty dollars, you get a memorable experience that’s perfect for families, bird lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful start to the day in Apulia.
While the tour’s brevity might leave some wanting more, it’s a highlight for those who appreciate small-group, hands-on encounters with wildlife. The opportunity to see elegant horses and learn about bird conservation adds to the overall value, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.
In essence, this experience is about enjoying authentic connections with nature in a relaxed setting—an authentic taste of the rural charm Italy has to offer.
FAQ
Is breakfast included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour price of $23 includes a hearty breakfast in the Falconer’s Court, served in a welcoming, scenic setting.
How long does the tour last?
The main guided tour lasts about two hours, with the entire experience, including breakfast, fitting comfortably into a morning.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended and can be made by phone at 3394508563, especially during busy times.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it possible for all visitors to enjoy the wildlife and scenery.
Can I take photos of the birds and horses?
Absolutely. The aviaries and stables are great spots for photography, so bring your camera or smartphone.
What species of birds of prey will I see?
You’ll see a variety, including eagles, hawks, storks, and many other species, totaling over 50 in the aviaries.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children usually love seeing the parrots and birds of prey. It’s a family-friendly activity that combines education with fun.