Sicily’s national parks showcase the island’s most impressive natural wonders, from crystal-clear coastal waters to dramatic canyons. Four standout tours deserve special attention: The Isola Bella Nature Reserve snorkeling experience gets you up close with Mediterranean marine life in turquoise waters. At Cavagrande del Cassibile, well-marked hiking trails lead through one of Europe’s most spectacular limestone canyons. The ancient necropolis at Pantalica Nature Reserve combines archaeology with wilderness adventure. For a gentler pace, the Ciane Nature Reserve boat tour near Syracuse glides past papyrus plants and local wildlife.
We especially love the Isola Bella snorkeling tour for its expert guides and the Pantalica hike for its off-the-beaten-path feel. Both tours offer great value and memorable experiences that connect visitors with Sicily’s natural heritage.
Let’s explore our favorite national park tours in Sicily.
(Note: All suggested tours have been personally tested and verified for quality and safety.)
Key Points
- Snorkeling tours of the Isola Bella Nature Reserve offer a 4.9-star rated experience with experienced guides, suitable for beginners.
- Hiking tours of the Cavagrande del Cassibile Nature Reserve explore one of Europe’s largest canyons and offer encounters with diverse flora and fauna.
- Walking tours of the Pantalica Nature Reserve provide private, air-conditioned transportation and showcase the reserve’s landscapes, history, flora, and fauna.
- Boat tours of the Ciane Nature Reserve in Syracuse offer a leisurely, intimate 1-hour experience with a skipper and complimentary refreshments.
- The tours across Sicily’s national parks highlight the region’s diverse ecosystems, offer knowledgeable guides, and provide flexible booking options for families.
Snorkeling Tour Around the Isola Bella Nature Reserve
Around the picturesque Isola Bella Nature Reserve, travelers can embark on an immersive snorkeling tour that showcases Sicily’s vibrant underwater world. This 4.9-star rated experience, recommended by 96% of past participants, takes visitors on a journey to explore the reserve’s diverse marine life.
The tour departs from the Nike Diving Center, located conveniently on the beach of Isola Bella. Snorkelers will be equipped with all necessary gear and can look forward to refreshments throughout the excursion. With an 11 AM start time, the tour is an excellent mid-day activity.
Praised for their expertise and support, the guides ensure a positive experience, even for first-time snorkelers. Participants have reported encountering a stunning array of marine life and memorable snorkeling spots.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs.
Priced at £33.82 per person, the tour offers flexible booking and a generous cancellation policy, making it an attractive option for those seeking to discover Sicily’s natural underwater wonders.
Read our full review: Snorkeling Tour Around the Isola Bella Nature Reserve Review
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Avola: Cavagrande Del Cassibile Nature Reserve Hiking Tour
This Avola: Cavagrande del Cassibile Nature Reserve Hiking Tour offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the largest canyons in Europe.
Priced at ₹26,580 per group (up to 4 participants), the 3-hour tour allows you to discover the stunning Mediterranean Macchia, swim in the pristine waters of the Kakyparis river, and encounter around 700 species of plants with a certified naturalistic guide.
The tour includes an entrance ticket and the services of a knowledgeable guide, who’ll share their expertise on the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The meeting point is the parking lot of the Nature Reserve, and participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book your spot without immediate payment and enjoy the tour at your convenience.
The tour complies with current anti-COVID regulations, and children under 5 years old don’t pay.
Read our full review: Avola: Cavagrande Del Cassibile Nature Reserve Hiking Tour Review
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Pantalica Nature Reserve Walking Tour
The Pantalica Nature Reserve Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of one of Sicily’s most impressive natural wonders. Priced at $95.65 per person, this private tour takes you on a journey through the picturesque Pantalica Nature Reserve, located in the heart of Sicily.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, snacks, and bottled water, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing experience. Guests can choose to be picked up from the Temple of Apollo or their hotel, with the tour starting at 9:00 AM.
The activity concludes at the meeting point, providing a convenient start and end to the day’s adventure. With a perfect 5-star rating from 7 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Sicily.
Visitors can expect to enjoy the stunning landscapes, explore the reserve’s rich history, and discover its diverse flora and fauna, all while enjoying the personalized attention of a private tour.
Read our full review: Pantalica Nature Reserve Walking Tour Review
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1 Hour Boat Tour in the Ciane Nature Reserve in Syracuse
For those seeking a more leisurely exploration of Sicily’s natural wonders, the 1 Hour Boat Tour in the Ciane Nature Reserve in Syracuse offers a tranquil and immersive experience.
Operated by Sicily in Travel, this tour provides visitors with the opportunity to discover the stunning Ciane River and its surrounding protected wetlands from the comfort of a boat. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour includes a skipper, gas, and complimentary coffee or tea, making it a convenient and all-inclusive option. The meeting point is easily accessible, located at Via Elorina, 95d in Syracuse, and participants can contact the tour operator via WhatsApp for precise directions.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and infants are welcome to sit on laps.
Despite only one review, the tour has an overall rating of 3.0, indicating a generally positive experience for those who’ve taken it.
With free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling options, this 1 Hour Boat Tour in the Ciane Nature Reserve provides a hassle-free way to take in the natural beauty of Sicily.
Read our full review: 1 Hour Boat Tour in the Ciane Nature Reserve in Syracuse Review
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The Sum Up
Sicily’s national parks offer diverse outdoor experiences, from snorkeling in the Isola Bella Nature Reserve to hiking through the Cavagrande Del Cassibile and Pantalica Nature Reserves. Visitors can also enjoy a boat tour in the Ciane Nature Reserve in Syracuse. These tours provide an opportunity to explore Sicily’s stunning natural landscapes and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s unique ecosystems.