Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento Morigerati
1 / 10

Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento Morigerati

4.7
·2k reviews·Morigerati, Italy

Discover the WWF Oasi Grotte del Bussento, a natural wonder where a river dramatically re-emerges from a cave, surrounded by lush canyons and an ancie...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento Morigerati

Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento Morigerati

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the WWF Oasi Grotte del Bussento, a natural wonder where a river dramatically re-emerges from a cave, surrounded by lush canyons and an ancient mill.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful place to visit! The hike is pleasant and suitable for both young and old."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Proper Footwear

Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are essential for the rocky, uneven paths. Rental options are available.

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Water fountains are available, but carrying your own is wise, especially on warmer days.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

River Bussento Springs

River Bussento Springs

Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento

Witness the powerful resurgence of the Bussento River from a majestic cave. The water is bracingly cold, around 12°C!

InstagramReddit
Ancient Stone Mill

Ancient Stone Mill

Mid-way on the trail

Discover a historic mill, once powered by a natural waterfall, symbolizing a harmonious past with nature.

InstagramReddit
Pristine Nature Trail

Pristine Nature Trail

Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento

A 3km shaded path through lush greenery, featuring streams, wooden bridges, and diverse flora.

Instagram+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Footwear is Key

Sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers are a must for navigating the rocky, sometimes steep trails. While some visitors mention renting shoes, bringing your own ensures comfort and grip on the stone staircases and uneven terrain. InstagramReddit

Beat the Heat & Crowds

While beautiful year-round, summer can be very hot, especially on the return uphill trek. Visiting in cooler months or early/late in the day is advised. Dogs might find summer heat challenging too. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
June mornings
Why
Less crowded, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Shaded trails, cooler air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ascolta il suono dell'acqua e della natura nell'Oasi WWF delle Grotte del Bussento. Un reale beneficio per l'anima. Vuoi regalarti un momento speciale per te? 🧘🏞️ #grottedelbussento #oasiwwf #wwf #campania #morigerati #relax
181travel
14 likes • 565 views

👟 Wear Proper Footwear

Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are essential for the rocky, uneven paths. Rental options are available. InstagramReddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Water fountains are available, but carrying your own is wise, especially on warmer days. Reddit

Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento. 📍Morigerati (Sa)
rosa_giffoni
150 likes • 5.9K views
🌿🐾 VIAGGIARE CON IL CANE SI PUÒ (e si deve!) 📍 Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento, Morigerati (SA) Un sentiero immerso nella natura incontaminata, cascate, ponti in legno e un fiume che sembra uscito da una fiaba — e sì, i cani sono i benvenuti! 💚 🎟 Ingresso: 6€ a persona 🐶 I cani entrano gratis 🥾 Consiglio: scarpe da trekking e acqua sempre con voi! In questo Reel ti mostro non solo la bellezza dell...
zampalovee
10 likes • 460 views

🐶 Pet-Friendly Path

Dogs are welcome and enter for free! Consider their comfort in hot weather. InstagramReddit

⏰ Allow 1-2 Hours

The hike itself is 20-30 mins, but factor in photos and enjoying the scenery. Reddit

🌿👣 Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento - Cilento📍 Uno dei sentieri bellissimi, facili e rigeneranti nel cuore del Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Alburni e Vallo di Diano. Tre chilometri di natura tra ruscelli, cascate, grotte, una delle stazioni di felci, licheni e muschi più grandi del Sud Italia ed un mulino di pietra utilizzato sino agli anni Sessanta per macinare il grano. Il fiume Bussento dopo chi...
iviaggidiliz_travelblog
0 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Proper Footwear

Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are essential for the rocky, uneven paths. Rental options are available. InstagramReddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Water fountains are available, but carrying your own is wise, especially on warmer days. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Path

Dogs are welcome and enter for free! Consider their comfort in hot weather. InstagramReddit

⏰ Allow 1-2 Hours

The hike itself is 20-30 mins, but factor in photos and enjoying the scenery. Reddit

🥶 Brace for Cold Water

The river springs are a refreshing 12°C – perfect for a quick, invigorating dip! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento's stunning natural beauty, particularly the dramatic river springs and the serene, shaded hiking trails. The historical stone mill adds a unique charm. While generally well-suited for families and pets, some find the summer heat and rocky return trail challenging.

"This is a beautiful place to visit! The hike is pleasant and suitable for both young and old. Proper footwear, like hiking shoes or sneakers, is highly recommended.

The trail is nicely shaded for about 80% of the journey. At the end, you're rewarded with a refreshing cold plunge in the 12 celsius water!

Plan for 1-2 hours for the whole experience, allowing time for photos. The actual hiking portion only takes about 20-30 minutes, and there are convenient water points available."

Paco Hamelijnck

"Beautiful place, not many tourists in June. Quite exerting in the sun, do not recommend for kids or dogs in the summer, it is very hot on the way down, many sharp stones. Was glad to leave dog at the hotel."

Natalia Sendecka

"Great WWF hiking trail leading to very refreshing water springs immersed in pristine nature and surrounded by caves. The ancient mill halfway features a natural waterfall too. A very “local” experience, as the site intercepts the fundamental waterway in the area, the river Bussento. You go down a mule track made of stone staircases, which makes the way back harder, but there are shaded pit stops equipped with water fountains. The reception hosts a little shop where you can buy WWF-themed caps, t-shirts, and local hand-made olive oil soap bars. Definitely worth a visit."

mubi

What People Like

Beautiful river springs
Shaded hiking trails
Ancient stone mill

What People Dislike

Hot summer return trail
Cold river water

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento is located in Morigerati, in the province of Salerno, within the Cilento National Park. Driving is the most common way to reach it. Parking is available near the entrance. Instagram+1

Public transport options might be limited and require careful planning. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance or consider a taxi service from nearby towns if you're not driving. Reddit

The most straightforward access is by car, as it allows flexibility. The entrance is well-marked, and there's usually parking available. Instagram

Yes, GPS navigation systems will typically guide you to Morigerati and then to the Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento. Look for signs once you are in the vicinity of the town. Instagram

The Oasi is a well-known natural attraction in the area, so following signs for 'Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento' or 'Morigerati' should lead you there. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically around 6€ per person. Dogs are usually allowed in for free, making it a great option for pet owners. Instagram

Booking in advance is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check the official WWF website or contact them directly, especially during peak season, to confirm current policies. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information on operating times. Instagram

Yes, some visitors have reported that hiking shoes and socks can be rented at the entrance, which is convenient if you didn't bring your own. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in all sources, WWF members often receive benefits at WWF-managed oases. It's worth inquiring at the entrance or checking the WWF Italia website. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The trail is about 3 kilometers long and is mostly shaded, making it pleasant for much of the year. It features streams, wooden bridges, and leads to the impressive river springs. The last 800 meters on the return can be uphill and exposed to the sun. Instagram+1

Yes, the trail is generally considered suitable for children, though the uphill return can be a bit tiring for younger ones, especially in the heat. The natural beauty and the cold springs are usually a hit with kids. InstagramReddit

Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the very cold (around 12°C) springs at the end of the trail. It's an invigorating experience! Reddit

Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the Oasi, including the hike, enjoying the scenery, and taking photos. The actual walking portion is about 20-30 minutes each way. Reddit

The Oasi is known for its pristine nature, including a significant station of ferns, lichens, and mosses, as well as the unique resurgence of the Bussento River. It's a haven for diverse flora. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There isn't a full restaurant inside the Oasi, but the reception area often has a small shop selling WWF merchandise and local products like olive oil soap. It's best to bring your own picnic or dine in Morigerati. Reddit

Yes, bringing a picnic is a great idea, especially if you plan to spend a few hours enjoying the natural surroundings. There are shaded spots where you can relax. Reddit

The nearby town of Morigerati and other villages in the Cilento region offer traditional trattorias and restaurants serving local cuisine. Instagram

While not a full food service, the small shop at the reception might offer some snacks or drinks. It's primarily focused on WWF merchandise and local crafts. Reddit

Traditional Cilento cuisine often features fresh, local ingredients. You can likely find vegetarian dishes, and many restaurants can accommodate vegan requests if you ask. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the dramatic river resurgence from the cave, the picturesque ancient mill with its waterfall, and the lush, green canyon with its streams and bridges. The play of light and shadow on the mossy rocks is also beautiful. Instagram+1

The trail offers many scenic viewpoints. Be mindful of the terrain and wear appropriate footwear to safely stop and take pictures. The shaded areas can make lighting challenging, so consider your camera settings. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon and river. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance the vibrant greens. A sturdy tripod might be useful for low-light conditions in the cave. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in WWF nature reserves to protect wildlife and the natural environment. It's best to check the official Oasi rules or contact them directly before flying a drone. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting and dramatic shadows. Midday sun can be harsh, but the shaded parts of the trail offer consistent light. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento is a fantastic destination for families. The 3km trail is generally manageable for children, with plenty of natural wonders like streams and bridges to keep them engaged. The highlight for many kids is the chance to dip their feet (or more!) into the incredibly cold, clear river springs. InstagramReddit

Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water, wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for everyone, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day or year to avoid the heat, especially on the uphill return. While dogs are welcome, assess if your pet will be comfortable with the terrain and temperature. Instagram+1

🐾 Pet-Friendly Explorers

This Oasi is a great spot for travelers with dogs, as they are welcomed and enter for free! The shaded trails offer a pleasant environment for your furry companions, especially outside the peak summer heat. Instagram

Important considerations: While dogs are allowed, the rocky terrain and potential heat during summer might be challenging for some pets. Ensure your dog is comfortable with walking on uneven surfaces and can handle the temperature. Bringing extra water for your pet is essential. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature & Hiking Enthusiasts

For those who love immersing themselves in nature, the Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento offers a unique and rewarding experience. The trail showcases the impressive karst hydrology of the region, with the dramatic resurgence of the Bussento River being a major draw. The diverse flora, including a significant collection of ferns and mosses, adds to the ecological appeal. Instagram+1

Don't miss: The ancient stone mill, a piece of local history integrated into the landscape, and the invigorating plunge into the 12°C river springs. The well-maintained, though sometimes challenging, trails provide a good moderate hike. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Hydrology of the Bussento River

The Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento is renowned for the spectacular resurgence of the Bussento River. This fascinating phenomenon occurs when the river disappears underground for approximately 4 kilometers, only to re-emerge dramatically from a large cave within the Oasi. This underground journey shapes the unique landscape and creates the impressive springs that are a highlight for visitors. Instagram+1

The water emerging from the cave is remarkably cold, consistently around 12°C, offering a bracing and invigorating experience for those brave enough to take a dip. This constant, cool flow contributes to the lush vegetation and the unique microclimate of the canyon, supporting a rich diversity of plant life, including a notable collection of ferns, lichens, and mosses. InstagramReddit

This natural wonder not only provides a stunning visual spectacle but also underscores the importance of preserving such delicate ecosystems. The WWF's management of the Oasi ensures that this unique hydrological cycle and the biodiversity it supports are protected for future generations to appreciate. Instagram

A Journey Through Time: The Ancient Mill

Halfway along the Oasi's trail, visitors will discover a beautifully preserved ancient stone mill. This historical structure, dating back to the late 18th century, stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature in past centuries. It was once powered by a natural waterfall, showcasing ingenious use of the river's flow for practical purposes. Instagram

Exploring the mill offers a glimpse into a bygone era when local communities relied on the river for sustenance and work. The presence of the mill, integrated seamlessly into the natural landscape, highlights a time when human activity was more in harmony with the environment. It’s a poignant reminder of sustainable practices from the past. Reddit

The mill itself, with its stone architecture and the gentle cascade of water nearby, provides a picturesque scene and a moment of reflection on history and nature's enduring power. It’s a key point of interest that adds a layer of cultural significance to the natural beauty of the Oasi. Instagram

Navigating the Oasi Trails: Tips for Hikers

The primary trail within the Oasi WWF Grotte del Bussento is approximately 3 kilometers long and is designed to be accessible, though it requires appropriate footwear. The path is largely shaded for about 80% of its length, offering respite from the sun, particularly during warmer months. This makes it a pleasant walk for most of the year. InstagramReddit

Visitors are strongly advised to wear sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers due to the presence of stone staircases and uneven, rocky terrain. While some sources mention the possibility of renting shoes, bringing your own is recommended for comfort and safety. The trail features charming wooden bridges and meanders alongside streams, adding to its scenic appeal. InstagramReddit

Be prepared for the return journey, as the last section involves an uphill climb which can be more strenuous, especially under the midday sun. The Oasi provides shaded pit stops equipped with water fountains, which are very helpful. The entire experience, including the hike and time spent at the springs and mill, typically takes between 1 to 2 hours. InstagramReddit

You may also like