Everything you need to know for visiting the Riserva dello Zingaro in Sicily

Whether you’re a fan of hiking or not (I’m not) Siciliy’s Riserva dello Zingaro is one hike you have to do in your lifetime. This may sound dramatic, but let me set the scene. Imagine sparkling blue water, views for miles, and open space free of hotels and restaurants.

Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro was Sicily’s first natural reserve founded in 1981. It’s located on a 7 km (~4.5 miles) stretch of coastline between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo. Tip: both towns are must-adds to your itinerary if you have time. This seaside trail has stunning views and special coves to stop, swim, and relax.

I’ve visited the reserve twice now and it’s the one activity I always highly recommend to visitors. All I can say is it’s just a one-of-a-kind experience. But let’s get into the logistics!

The Logistics: Everything you need to know for visiting the Riserva dello Zingaro in Sicily

Arriving: There are two entrances – one is in Scopello (the southern entrance) and one is in San Vito Lo Capo (the northern entrance). I recommend the southern entrance as it is less transited and allows you to make a pit stop at the Tonnara di Scopello.

Time needed: This is very dependent on your hiking path. It is pretty rugged terrain made more difficult by the scorching heat if you’re visiting during the summer. If you plan to do the full 7km hike round trip (14km total) you will definitely need an entire day. If you plan for a more leisurely day with a bit of hiking, swimming, and relaxing – you could plan for 4-5 hours.

Parking: Free with a small caveat. There is a free lot located at the entrance. However, if you arrive a bit later (we arrived at ~10 AM), the lot was full and we had to park in a private lot down the street for 10€.

Admission: 5€ for adults, €3 for children 11 to 14, and free under 11. You buy your ticket at the entrance and can pay by card or cash.

Hours: April – September 7 AM – 7 PM, October – March 8 AM – 4 PM

Tips for Visiting The Riserva dello Zingaro

Tip 1: Bring snacks, water, and lunch. You’ll be out there for quite a few hours and there are no kiosks or shops. Along our drive, we spotted a deli and picked up traditional “Pane Cunzato” and other local specialties. You’ll usually see roadside signs pointing to these types of spots. Honestly, there’s nothing more special than eating an amazing sandwich after a swim in the sea.
Tip 2: Wear proper walking shoes and wear a hat. I did the walk in flip flops and let me tell you, it was miserable. Wear walking shoes and pack flip-flops in your bag. I’d also highly recommend water shoes as the beach in the coves are made up of tiny pebbles.
Tip 3: Skip the first cove and go directly to the second (unless it’s very early). Each cove has its own landscape and personality. There are 7 coves all together. Coming from the southern entrance, while cove one is beautiful, it’s also the most popular as it’s quite close to the entrance. Cove 2 is my favorite as it’s less crowded but still relatively easy to get to.