Tour of the Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi at sunset

A Sunset Adventure in the Heart of Matera’s Wild Side

Touring Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi at sunset offers a chance to see the famous ancient town of Matera in a fresh, natural light. This two-hour guided walk isn’t your typical sightseeing stroll. Instead, it’s a carefully curated experience that combines nature, history, and panoramic views, far from the usual crowded tourist spots. You’ll follow ancient paths along canyons and through prehistoric caves, with your guide sharing stories that bring the landscape to life.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the authenticity — it’s small-group, intimate, and focused on sharing local secrets. The guides are experts, and they use storytelling to make the history of the region accessible and engaging. A standout feature is the spectacular sunset, when the Sassi of Matera are bathed in golden light, creating one of Italy’s most visually stunning vistas. Plus, the opportunity to see wild flora and maybe even a falcon or fox adds a layer of excitement no big bus tour can match.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour involves some walking over uneven terrain and narrow paths, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, the tour’s timing is flexible, but be prepared to arrive at the starting point—either nearby Passi nei Sassi or by bus—and then enjoy a scenic 20-minute drive into the park. The experience is rated highly, with a 4.7 out of 5 from ten reviews, and many travelers mention how the modest cost offers great value for such a personalized adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Experience: Escape the crowds and explore the wild side of Matera in a small-group setting.
• Expert Guides: Local guides like those from Passi nei Sassi bring stories, traditions, and hidden gems to life.
• Breathtaking Sunset Views: The highlight is watching the Sassi light up during sunset, perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery.
• Historical and Natural Sites: Visit ancient caves, rock churches, and see traces of prehistoric life, all while enjoying fragrant Mediterranean flora.
• Wildlife and Nature: Spotting falcons, foxes, and hares makes this more than just a walk — it’s a peek into the local ecosystem.
• Convenient Logistics: The tour includes transportation from Matera, entry to rock churches, and small groups make for a personalized experience.

Discovering the Hidden Side of Matera: A Deep Dive

The Tour of the Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi at sunset is a more immersive way to experience Matera’s lesser-known landscapes. As someone who loves a good blend of nature and history, I find that this walk offers a refreshing perspective on a city famous for its ancient stone dwellings.

The Itinerary: From Familiar to Fabulous Views

The tour begins at one of two local meeting points—either Passi nei Sassi or nearby by bus—making it flexible for different travelers’ plans. After a quick 20-minute ride, you arrive at the heart of the Murgia Park, where the real magic begins.

Once there, your local guide will lead you along ancient paths, once used by farmers and shepherds. These winding trails offer dizzying views over the ravine and the surrounding landscape. You’ll visit rock-carved churches with thousand-year-old frescoes, and explore caves inhabited since prehistoric times. It’s genuinely extraordinary to think that some of these rock shelters have sheltered life for thousands of years.

The Natural Environment and Its Allure

Along the way, fragrant Mediterranean plants—wild thyme, oregano, broom, and orchids—color the landscape and fill the air with a pleasant aroma. If you’re lucky, you might see a lesser kestrel soaring overhead, which the park considers its symbol. The presence of foxes, hares, and other creatures adds to the feeling of being in an untouched corner of Italy.

The Sunset: A Moment of Pure Magic

The tour’s pièce de résistance is the sunset over Matera. As the sun dips behind the horizon, the Sassi illuminate in golden hues, revealing the city’s ancient silhouette in a way that photos simply can’t do justice. This is a scene that stays with you long after you leave, especially if you enjoy photography or simply love soaking in beautifully lit landscapes.

What the Tour Gets Right: Authenticity and Value

The reviews highlight how guides like Bene make the experience special — “Mi è piaciuto tutto!” (I liked everything!) — and that even with language barriers, travelers felt the warmth and authenticity of the tour. For those who don’t speak Italian fluently, the English guides make sure the storytelling remains engaging.

On top of that, the small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention and chances to ask questions. The price, which includes entry to rock churches and caves, as well as transportation, feels like good value considering the depth of experience offered.

Potential Drawbacks: The Walking Terrain

Keep in mind, this isn’t a leisurely walk on flat ground. Some paths are narrow and uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Those with mobility issues might find certain parts challenging, but for most able-bodied travelers, it’s a manageable and rewarding outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy nature, history, and spectacular views, this tour is a winner. It’s especially suited for photographers, curious travelers, and those seeking an authentic experience away from crowded tourist routes. If you’re interested in discovering hidden nature spots and ancient rock churches, this guided walk offers a rare chance to see the real soul of Matera.

For families with children, it’s a manageable walk if they’re used to some uneven terrain, but those with mobility impairments should consider other options. The experience is most rewarding in good weather and during sunset, so plan accordingly.

Price and Logistics: Worth the Investment

The cost of this tour is reasonable, especially considering all-inclusive features like transportation, guided storytelling, and entry to historic sites. The 2-hour duration makes it a perfect addition to a day of sightseeing, offering a peaceful yet engaging window into the wild, ancient side of Matera.

The meeting points are accessible, and the tour’s flexible booking options allow you to reserve without immediate payment—ideal if your plans are still flexible. The small-group format ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and your guide will have the time to answer your questions.

Final Thoughts: An Authentic, Scenic Escape

This sunset tour of Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi is a wonderful way to connect with the less traveled, more natural side of Matera. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized, scenic experience that combines breathtaking views, ancient sites, and local stories.

The stunning sunset views alone make it worth the effort, but add in the chance to explore prehistoric caves, see wild flora, and learn from passionate guides, and it becomes a memorable outing. It’s a well-balanced experience that respects both the natural environment and the historical depth of this unique landscape.

If your idea of travel includes a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and peaceful moments watching the sun go down, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially if your children are comfortable walking on uneven paths. Keep in mind it involves some light trekking over rocky terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera or smartphone for photos, sunscreen, a hat, water, and snacks. It’s a good idea to wear weather-appropriate clothes.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, plus transportation time, making it a perfect short outing in the late afternoon or evening.

Are the guides available in English?
Yes, the tour is offered in both Italian and English, making it accessible for international travelers.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation from Matera to the park, entry to rock churches and caves, and the guiding service are all included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your travel schedule.

Is the tour physically demanding?
The difficulty is rated as easy to medium; some walking on uneven terrain is involved, but overall, it’s manageable for most travelers in decent health.

In all, this sunset tour of Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi offers a compelling blend of breathtaking scenery, ancient history, and genuine local flavor. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see Matera from a unique perspective, away from the crowds, and in the glow of the setting sun.