Start your day of adventure in Matera, where you'll meet our staff and board a comfortable van to head to Pollino National Park, one of the most spectacular natural parks in Southern Italy. During the approximately 2.5-hour drive to Pollino, you'll be able to admire the landscapes of Basilicata and Calabria as they gradually give way to the mountains and valleys of the park.

Once you arrive in the Lao River area, in the heart of Pollino National Park, you'll be welcomed by the rafting center staff and provided with all the necessary equipment for the activity: helmet, life jacket, paddle, and, depending on the season, a wetsuit. After a short safety briefing and instruction on basic rafting techniques, you'll be ready to hit the water.

Rafting on the Lao River lasts about 1 hour and takes place on a scenic stretch of the river featuring gorges, rocky cliffs, and lush vegetation. Paddling alongside the guide, you'll navigate fun rapids that are suitable for everyone, calmer stretches to admire the Pollino landscape, and points where the river widens, with clear, cool waters. This experience is perfect for those who want to try rafting in the Pollino National Park without any prior experience.

At the end of the rafting trip on the Lao, you'll have about 2 hours of free time for lunch and relaxation. You can choose to have lunch on your own at one of the local restaurants, have a picnic, or simply enjoy nature, take photos, and stroll around the rafting center. This time will allow you to take in the atmosphere of Pollino at your own pace and recharge your batteries before heading back.

In the afternoon, you'll board the van for the return trip to Matera, which also takes about 2.5 hours. You'll return to the city in the evening after a full day of nature, sports, and spectacular scenery in the Pollino National Park and along the Lao River. This rafting tour with transfer from Matera is perfect for those looking for a day-long adventure without the hassle of arranging transportation.