Start your day of adventure in Matera, where you will meet our staff and board a comfortable van to reach the Pollino National Park, one of the most spectacular nature parks in southern Italy. During the approximately 2.5-hour journey to Pollino, you will be able to admire the landscapes of Basilicata and Calabria, which gradually give way to the mountains and valleys of the park.
Once you arrive in the area of the Lao River, in the heart of the Pollino National Park, you will be welcomed by the staff of the rafting centre and provided with all the necessary gear for the activity: helmet, life jacket, paddle, and, depending on the season, a wetsuit. After a short safety briefing and instructions on the basic techniques of rafting, you'll be ready to get in the water.
Rafting on the Lao River lasts approximately 1 hour and takes place on a scenic stretch of the river, characterised by gorges, rocky cliffs, and lush vegetation. Paddling alongside your guide, you'll tackle fun rapids suitable for everyone, calmer stretches to admire the Pollino landscape, and spots where the river widens, with clear, cool waters. This experience is perfect for those who would like to try rafting in the Pollino National Park without any prior experience.
After rafting on the Lao, you'll have about 2 hours of free time for lunch and to relax. You can choose to have lunch on your own in one of the local restaurants, have a picnic, or simply enjoy nature, take photos, and walk around the rafting centre. This time will allow you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Pollino at your leisure and recharge before returning.
In the afternoon, you will board the van for the return trip to Matera, which also takes about 2.5 hours. You will return to the city in the evening after a full day of nature, sport, and spectacular scenery in the Pollino National Park and along the Lao River. This rafting tour with transfer from Matera is perfect for those who want a full-day adventure without the hassle of arranging transport.