Top Lecce Nature and Wildlife Tours

Marine excursion in kayak and canoe in the splendid waters of Santa Maria di Leuca. We will paddle in this beautiful stretch of the Ionian coast and discover its most particular characteristics, its geological origins but also the charm of its ancient history with a route among the most beautiful caves.

The Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area preserves some of Puglia's most unspoiled coastal scenery—and this half-day boat tour is a great way to experience it first-hand. Traveling aboard a refurbished former fishing boat, set off to discover many of the region's key sights, from the historic Torre di San Tommaso watchtower to archaeological sites, tiny islands, and popular swimming and snorkeling destinations.

An evocative e-bike journey starts in the heart of Lecce, taking you through peaceful olive groves and quiet country roads to the Adriatic coast. The first stop is the picturesque fishing village of San Cataldo, where the sea breeze makes the ride even more pleasant. You then continue to the historic village of Acaya, exploring its medieval walls and timeless streets where you will stop to enjoy a typical aperitif with local cheeses, cold cuts, fresh vegetables and Cabin bread, all accompanied by regional wines. This experience encompasses the vibrant colors and authentic flavors of Puglia, offering a perfect end to your day. The tour can also be carried out with departure at dawn to enjoy the coolest hours of the day and a typical Salento Brunch.

The sea caves of Santa Maria di Leuca are only available by boat—but not everyone wants to spend their vacation jostling for views on a crowded cruise. Ideal for anyone seeking a more relaxed, bespoke experience, this small-group, half-day cruise takes in two iconic grottoes, Leuca lighthouse, panoramic views from Punta Ristola, and sails past a 16th-century Spanish watchtower—all with a maximum of just 12 people on board.

A gentle and flat path of about 38km, which will guide you through the historical and natural beauty of the Lecce countryside. Starting from Lecce, the baroque city par excellence, you will cycle to the Church of Santa Maria d'Auria, a hidden gem immersed in the Salento countryside, surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and a serene atmosphere. From there, the journey continues to the Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate, an ancient masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque architecture, surrounded by a vast olive grove and today an FAI site, which you can also visit inside to appreciate its timeless beauty. You will continue towards the natural park of Rauccio, a protected area characterized by a rare forest of Leccese oaks where you can enjoy a moment of relaxation tasting your picnic with typical local products. Finally, the route will take you back to Lecce, concluding an excursion that harmoniously blends history, nature and culinary culture, offering a unique and accessible experience for everyone.

Leave the legwork to someone else on this private beach-hopping tour around the Otranto coast. Begin the day shopping for souvenirs in Otranto before traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle to Turks’ bay—one of Italy’s most unspoiled beaches. Relax in a sun lounger, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or discover hidden coves on a walk. Towards the end of your tour, soak up the views at Torre Sant’ Andrea and Le Due Sorelle beaches.

Lecce is famous for its baroque architecture and authentic cuisine. With this cooking class in the heart of the city’s old town, experience the best of both. Meet your hosts at an “osteria” set on one of the most charming lanes in the historic center and discover the secrets to rolling and shaping fresh “orecchiette” pasta, a traditional specialty from Puglia. Then relax over a guided wine tasting paired with regional delicacies.

What makes this activity special This sailing experience is the ideal way to discover Salento from its best point of view: the sea. This is not just a hike, but a moment of authentic relaxation, away from the crowds and crowded tours. When the wind allows, you can sail in total tranquility, enjoying the silence and colors of the Ionian Sea. The local skipper selects the best itinerary every day based on the weather conditions, taking you to the most beautiful and less frequented bays, with stops to swim in clear and crystal clear waters. The limited number of guests guarantees comfort, attention and an intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples, families and small groups. It is a curated, sustainable and personalized experience, ideal for those who want to experience the Salento sea in an exclusive, relaxing and memorable way.

We will admire caves characterized by their "crystalline" water. Adriatic side itinerary: After a brief stop in Grotta Cazzafri, at the foot of Punta Meliso, we continue towards Grotta Terradico, Verduselle, Grotta del Soffio and Grotta della Vora. To be able to admire the beauty of these coves up close, we will make a small stop for a swim under the cliff and to enter the caves. Ionian side itinerary: The first cave you meet on the western side, close to Punta Ristola is the Grotta Porcinara, immediately followed by the Grotta del Diavolo, the Grotta del Fiume, the Grotta delle Tre Porte, the Caverna dei Giganti, Grotta della Stalla and the majestic Dragon cave. Here too a stop is planned to immerse yourself in the crystal clear water.

Explore centuries-old vineyards, visit a historic winery, and discover a one-of-a-kind artistic retreat—culminating in a guided tasting of fine wines paired with local delicacies. All that - just about 20 km outside Lecce. Begin your journey in Guagnano with a visit to a historic winery known for preserving the heritage of Negroamaro and Primitivo wines. Enjoy a scenic stroll through vineyards cultivated using the traditional “alberello” (small tree) system. Step into a hidden artistic sanctuary created by a local painter. Blending art, architecture, and nature in a whimsical Gaudí style, this peaceful retreat offers a glimpse into Puglia’s vibrant cultural and creative spirit. Relax with a guided tasting of four premium wines led by an expert sommelier. Savor each pour alongside a traditional marenna—a rustic Puglian breakfast featuring local cheeses and cured meats that beautifully complement the wines.

The archeological sites at the coast of Porto Cesareo tell us about a local history that was intimately bound to the rest of the Mediterranean. Indeed, the archeological remains that we will see will lead us to consider the relationships with other parts of the basin and to talk about ancient navigation, the “marble route” coming from the Aegean and deities coming from ancient Egypt. In addition, it will appear clear the relevance of physical geography shaping local history. Thus, we will talk about the main features of the Mediterranean Basin, the evolution of coastal topography and geomorphological processes. After describing and talking about the history of modern and contemporary buildings that we will see, we will try to reconstruct the evolution of the coastal landscape and the destruction of the coastal ecosystems. This tour is recommended for archeology, history, geography and culture enthusiasts, naturalists, swimmers, active tourists and adventure seekers.

We set sail from the Santa Maria di Leuca port to reach and admire our caves characterized by their "crystalline" water. Adriatic side itinerary: After a brief stop in Grotta Cazzafri, at the foot of Punta Meliso, we continue towards Grotta Terradico, Verduselle, Grotta del Soffio and Grotta della Vora. To be able to admire the beauty of these coves up close, we will make a small stop for a swim under the cliff and to enter the caves. Ionian side itinerary: The first cave you meet on the western side, close to Punta Ristola is the Grotta Porcinara, immediately followed by the Grotta del Diavolo, the Grotta del Fiume, the Grotta delle Tre Porte, the Caverna dei Giganti, Grotta della Stalla and the majestic Dragon cave. Here too a stop is planned to immerse yourself in the crystal clear water.

Sit back and relax and admire views of the coast that you can’t get any other way on a small-group sailing trip from Gallipoli. Follow the coastline, then head out to the Island of Sant Andrea, where you visit the lighthouse and get the chance to swim and snorkel. Snacks and aperitifs, including local wine and prosecco, are provided. Choose from morning, afternoon, or evening sailings to suit your schedule.

Make the pleasant memory of an exclusive trip indelible. Our Cranchi speedboat tour is a real experience with captains who experience the sea every day of the year. Our love for the sea will guarantee you an experience that will be difficult to forget. Our journey starts from the port of S.M. of Leuca, among tales and legends you will walk along all the caves that characterize the eastern and western coasts from a safe distance. Two swimming stops are planned in the most suggestive coves, where participants will be able to use snorkeling equipment or simply enjoy moments of relaxation on the boat. The boat, a motorboat equipped with cushions, mini bar with soft drinks, stern platform, awning, boarding ladder, fresh water shower and beach towels, will guarantee a comfortable tour in complete safety.

Cover more sights in less time during this scenic, off-the-beaten-track bike tour, with stops at prehistoric ruins, a Byzantine crypt, and the turquoise bay of Porto Badisco, with options to swim or rent a canoe. Enjoy fresh, regional delicacies with a traditional local lunch spread, cooked in a stone oven. You’ll also be treated to a tasty iced coffee as you cruise the magnificent coast.

I worked for 15 years as a biochemical researcher of wine. Now I have transformed my dream and my passion into an activity dedicated to the world of wine, offering my clients an exclusive experience in the authentic culture of Salento wine. Thanks to my experience of online wine sales matured with my website I know perfectly all the cellars and wines of Salento. And now I want to use all my knowledge to give you the best and most complete wine experience you can find in Salento. Make yourself comfortable because the tour is about to start.

We embark from the "Porto Vecchio" of Santa Maria di Leuca in the direction of the most famous and authentically beautiful caves on the Adriatic side, skirting Punta Meliso which houses the Basilica Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, the Leuca Lighthouse and the Monumental Staircase and the Ionian, crossing the marina of Leuca enclosed between Punta Meliso and Punta Ristola, the southernmost emerged land of Puglia.

Immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking class in Lecce. Learn to make orecchiette and maccheroni al ferretto, enjoy fresh sauces, local wines, and traditional Salento specialties in a cozy family setting. The small-group lesson of no more than seven people means you'll get plenty of attention from your teacher, plus, you'll leave with recipes to take home with you.

This interesting and fascinating 3 hours Hike embraces History, local villages, sea and country side surroundings.

This tour takes place in the Idro Valley and the Giurdignano area. Both of these regions are characterized by a picturesque landscape, rich in nature and olive groves, and by a wealth of archaeological and historical sites, spanning from prehistory to the modern era. Menhirs, dolmens, churches carved in the stone, and graffities are just some of the traces of past civilizations scattered throughout these territories. To explore these areas, a bicycle is the best mode of transportation because it allows you to reach places inaccessible by car. The first part of the route heads up the Idro Valley to reach Giurdignano. From there, we head toward the Massi della Vecchia and then return to Otranto. Along the way, we will make a few stops to visit natural and archaeological sites. This is a cultural and active tour, designed for people interested in nature, history, archaeology, and outdoor activities. It is intended for anyone in good physical condition who is comfortable riding a bicycle.

This tour mainly follows the coastline south of the town of Otranto. This area is characterised by a picturesque landscape, rich in natural beauty, and home to a number of archaeological and historical sites: Roman and modern watchtowers, and Second World War bunkers. The route follow roads with little or no traffic and paths that, in some sections, run along rocky outcrops or are covered in gravel. The total distance is approximately 7 km (4.4 miles) with a total elevation gain of 80 m (265 feet). Along the way, we will make a few stops to visit natural and archaeological sites. This tour is designed for those who enjoy walking in nature and are interested in history and geography.

We will ride on gentle horses and in the company of an expert equestrian guide we will ride along the paths of the Park to discover the natural beauty of the area. We will arrive on the beach to take some photos and at the end of the excursion we will return to the Ranch. Participants will be accompanied by guides patented by E.N.G.E.A. The experience on horseback will have a total duration of about 1 hour.

Gallipoli and its surrounding coastal landscapes boast beautiful Ionian Sea views, and a rich history of conquering and settlement dating back to the Middle Ages. On this full-day bike tour, spin through the Porto Selvaggio Natural Park with your guide to lead the way. Reach far-flung historic sites including Alezio, Galatone, and Sannicola with ease, and enjoy free time for a swim at your leisure.