Abruzzo is known for being one of the wildest regions in Italy. Its mountains are characterized by extraordinary biodiversity and the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park is considered one of the best places in Europe for the observation of large Mammals.
Among these, in addition to the different species of Ungulates, including the endemic Apennine Chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica ornata), the Marsican Brown Bear (Ursus arctos marsicanus) and the Italian Wolf (Canis lupus italicus) deserve particular attention.
The subspecies of Brown Bear present, endemic to Central Italy, represents one of the flagships of the fauna diversity of the italian territory. Although the population of Marsican Bears is made up of a small number of specimens, encounters with this species are not uncommon, especially in the spring or late summer, when the bears are busy feeding before and after the winter hibernation.
Are you interested in combining this experience with a daily birdwatching tour along Italian coastal wetlands? Take a look at our tours in the surrounding area of Rome or north to Naples!
During the tour we will track this plantigrade, as well another excellence of the Park: the Italian Wolf.
We will also have the opportunity to focus on birdwatching, on the observation of Reptiles and Amphibians, without forgetting to enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the Park and the history and culture of the area.
- Abruzzo National Park: Established in 1921, the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park (its full name) or PNALM, was the first protected area to be established in Italy. It has a territory consisting in a multitude of chains with peaks between 900 and 2200 meters. In a scenery composed of breathtaking landscapes, the Park hosts an extraordinary biodiversity. Abruzzo is best known for being one of the wildest regions in Italy and it’s considered one of the best places in Europe for the observation of large Mammals (Red Deer, Apennine Chamois, Marsican Brown Bear, Italian, etc.). Also all the other classes of vertebrates are well represented and each of them includes numerous taxa of great conservation interest (as for example Salamandrina perspicillata, Vipera ursinii, Denrocopos leucotos, etc.). The entomofauna is also of great value (there are numerous species of butterflies and beetles, among which it is impossible not to mention the wonderful Rosalia alpina). The flora with the centuries-old beechs and conifers, the endemics, and the dozens of orchid species, fascinate even the most demanding botanists.
- Historical villages of the Apennines: There are countless medieval villages that dot the Apennine mountains. Treasures of traditions, food and wine and ancient knowledge, they offer refuge and refreshment for explorers and travelers.
- Mammals: Marsican Brown Bear (Ursus arctos marsicanus), Italian Wolf (Canis lupus italicus), Apennine Chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica ornata), Red Deer (Cervus elaphus), Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus), Italian Hare (Lepus corsicanus), Crested Porcupine (Hystrix cristata).
- Birds: The Park is home to around 230 bird species, including nesting, migratory and wintering ones. Among the many forest and mountain species, of great interest: Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Eurasian Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus), White-backed Woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos), White-throated Dipper (Cinclus cinclus), Red-billed Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax).
- The herpetofauna includes: Northern Spectacled Salamander (Salamandrina perspicillata), Apennine Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina pachypus), Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca), Riccioli’s Snake (Coronella girondica), Central Italy Asp (Vipera aspis francisciredi), Meadow Viper (Vipera ursinii).
- For macrophotography enthusiasts, an incredible number of invertebrates (mainly butterflies, dragonflies and beetles) and wild flowers.
- Day 1:
Departure from Rome or Naples. Arrival at the hotel located in the heart of Abruzzo National Park. A full afternoon of wildlife watching among the rocky slopes environment, looking for apennine chamois and birds of prey. Bear watching in the late afternoon. Dinner in a typical restaurant with a menu based on fresh pasta and traditional cheeses and cured meats. Short journey by car to listen to the wolf (depending on the season). - Day 2:
Breakfast. Wolf watching in the early morning on a valley, a very good point to spot ungulates used by a wolf pack. Exploration of the Cinquemiglia plateau. Return to Pescasseroli and free time. Bear watching in the late afternoon. Dinner in a typical restaurant with a menu based on typical italian starts and grilled meat or vegetables and bruschettas. - Day 3:
Breakfast. Birdwatching and mammal watching. Visit of a typical medieval village. Lunch. Return to Rome or Naples.
This schedule is purely indicative and can be modified according to customer needs and including additional days.
The rate is subject to an ad hoc quote which depends on the number of participants, duration of the tour and activities included.
For more information contact the organizers.
What is included:
- Overnight stays.
- Meals (2 breakfasts, 2 packed lunches, 2 dinners – drinks not included).
- From/to Naples and internal transfers in car pooling, including fuel, tolls and parking (depending on the rate).
- Wildlife watching excursion with an expert local guide.
- Scientific accompaniment by zoologist for the duration of the trip, with support material for wildlife observations (binoculars, spotting scope, field guides, etc.).
- Basic travel insurance.
What’s not included:
- Everything not mentioned in the previous item.
Information regarding rates, sale conditions and payment methods will be communicated by email after filling in the request form.
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