Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
Sicily's first nature reserve, offering pristine coves, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coastal hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sicily's first nature reserve, offering pristine coves, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coastal hiking trails.
"The views and the whole experience of little beaches is amazing. Worth it a thousand times."
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
Avoid flip-flops! Opt for hiking boots or sturdy trainers for the rocky 7km trails.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside. Bring plenty of water and food for your day of exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal-Clear Coves
Various calette along the coast
Discover secluded bays with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Each cove offers a unique slice of paradise.
Scenic Coastal Trekking
7km trail from north or south entrance
Hike along breathtaking coastal paths with stunning sea views and diverse flora. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.
Abundant Marine Life
Underwater in the coves
Snorkel or swim in waters teeming with fish, offering a vibrant underwater spectacle. Keep an eye out for dolphins too!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key
Pack Smart for a Day of Sun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
Avoid flip-flops! Opt for hiking boots or sturdy trainers for the rocky 7km trails.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside. Bring plenty of water and food for your day of exploration.
🩱 Swimsuit & Towel Ready
Don't miss the chance to swim in the pristine coves. Pack your swimwear and a towel!
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fee
Pay the €5 entrance fee and park at designated lots. Water and toilets are available.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
Avoid flip-flops! Opt for hiking boots or sturdy trainers for the rocky 7km trails.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside. Bring plenty of water and food for your day of exploration.
🩱 Swimsuit & Towel Ready
Don't miss the chance to swim in the pristine coves. Pack your swimwear and a towel!
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fee
Pay the €5 entrance fee and park at designated lots. Water and toilets are available.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The Sicilian sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro as a breathtakingly beautiful natural paradise, highlighting its crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal trails. The manageable entrance fee and the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling in secluded coves are major draws. Some find the hike challenging, especially in heat, and advise thorough preparation with appropriate footwear and supplies.
"It is a beautiful place. You have to pay 5 euros entrance fee but you get a clean toilet and drinking water so that feel totally fair."
Honza Bím
"Best place we visited in our short trip to Sicily. The views and the whole experience of little beaches is amazing. The history and background of the place is also very interesting. This is a place I would recommend to everybody. The cost trail is fairly easy - 7km one way, but it takes much time if you want to go to each beach and spend some time exploring - worth it a thousand times. Also a suggestion to take swimming goggles and neoprene shoes to have the best experience. For the trail itself - do not go in flip flops (I think in the entrance they check the shoes you have). Entrance was 5€ per person"
Marta Duszyńska
"One of the most majestic places I've ever been to. The water is crystal clear and full of fishes. The walk from the North entrance of Zingaro National Reserve takes around 10mins and you can enjoy incredible views. Attention however, there nicht be jellyfish. My girlfriend got stung by one, but it wasn't too painful. Overall an amazing beach, and especially not too crowded."
Peter Peninger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro from two main entrances: the north entrance near San Vito Lo Capo or the south entrance near Scopello. 
The main trail is about 7km long and is considered moderately easy, but requires sturdy footwear. It's not ideal for flip-flops. Parents in their 60s have managed, but it's a good idea to assess your own fitness.
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside the reserve. You'll need to park at the designated lots and walk in.
Many visitors choose to hike from one entrance to the other, enjoying the coastal views and stopping at various coves. You can also do an out-and-back hike.
While direct bus routes might be limited, you can typically reach San Vito Lo Capo or Scopello by public transport and then arrange local transport or walk to the reserve entrances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically €5 per person for adults. Discounts may apply for children or other groups.
The fee often includes access to clean toilets and drinking water facilities within the reserve, making it a fair price for the experience.
Discounts may be available for certain groups, so it's worth inquiring at the entrance or checking their official website if available.
Information on online ticket purchases is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance.
The reserve is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular coves include Cala Tonnarella, Cala Capreria, and Cala dell'Uzzo. Each offers stunning turquoise waters and a sense of seclusion.
Absolutely! The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Be aware that jellyfish can sometimes be present.
The reserve is home to diverse flora and fauna. You might spot various bird species, and the waters are rich with marine life.
While some areas offer natural shade from rocks or sparse vegetation, it's advisable to bring your own shade, like a beach umbrella, especially during peak summer.
Yes, there are toilet facilities and drinking water fountains available within the reserve, often included with the entrance fee.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Every turn offers a postcard-worthy view! Focus on the dramatic coastline, the vibrant blue of the sea, and the secluded coves.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer, more dramatic lighting for landscape shots. Midday can be harsh but still offers stunning colors.
Drones can capture incredible aerial perspectives of the coastline and coves, but be sure to check local regulations regarding drone usage in protected areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for underwater shots.
The entire coastal path offers incredible viewpoints. Look for elevated spots that provide a panoramic vista of the sea and coves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the most beautiful light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Zingaro Trail: A Hiker's Paradise
Visitors can choose to hike from either the San Vito Lo Capo entrance (north) or the Scopello entrance (south). Many opt to hike one way and arrange transportation back, or complete a round trip if time and energy permit.
The journey can take several hours, especially if you plan to stop frequently to swim, sunbathe, and explore the different calette. While the trails are generally manageable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness, it's important to be prepared.
Discovering the Pristine Coves
Each cove boasts incredibly clear, turquoise waters, inviting visitors for a swim, snorkel, or simply to relax on the pebbly shores. +1 The water is often so transparent that you can see fish swimming around your feet, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. These coves provide a sense of untouched natural beauty, a stark contrast to more developed tourist beaches.
While the coves are stunning, it's important to be aware of potential hazards. Some reviewers have mentioned encountering jellyfish, so it's wise to be cautious when swimming.
A Haven for Nature Lovers
Spanning over 1,600 hectares, it showcases the wild beauty of the Sicilian coastline, characterized by dramatic cliffs, Mediterranean scrub, and a rich array of flora and fauna. The reserve is a sanctuary for numerous plant species, some of which are endemic to the region, and it's a vital habitat for various bird species. The reserve's commitment to preservation means that development is minimal, preserving its natural state. This allows visitors to experience a truly wild and unspoiled landscape.
For those interested in the natural history of Sicily, the Zingaro Reserve offers a unique opportunity to witness a protected ecosystem firsthand. It's a place where the power of nature is on full display, from the rugged terrain to the vibrant marine life.
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