Lecce might be famous for its baroque architecture and lively atmosphere, but this charming city also offers fantastic access to natural parks and marine protected areas. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful horseback ride, a scenic boat trip, or an active kayaking adventure, Lecce’s diverse tours make it easy to connect with nature. We’re particularly fond of the horse ride in a Salento Nature Reserve for its gentle pace and family-friendly vibe, and the boat tour of Porto Cesareo’s Marine Protected Area for its mix of archaeology and wildlife. If you love active outdoor fun, the kayak tour provides an up-close look at the coast’s underwater life. Each of these experiences offers a different way to explore the region’s natural beauty, making Lecce a surprisingly versatile base for outdoor adventures.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout National Park Tours in Lecce. You’ll find a horseback riding experience suitable for families or anyone who appreciates a slow, scenic ride [], a boat cruise that explores archaeological sites and wildlife in Porto Cesareo [], and an eco-friendly kayak trip with a marine biologist guide to get a hands-on look at marine life []. Each offers a unique way to enjoy the region’s natural environments, whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful ride, a scenic boat ride, or an active paddle along the coast.
1. Horse ride in a Salento Nature Reserve with transfer from Lecce
For around $117.40, this horse riding tour offers a relaxing way to experience the Salento countryside and coastal beauty. The excursion includes a transfer from Lecce to a dedicated ranch, where you’ll ride gentle horses accompanied by an expert equestrian guide—patented by E.N.G.E.A.—who shares insights into the local environment. The ride lasts about an hour, taking you along well-maintained paths that wind through the nature reserve.
What makes this tour stand out is its family-friendly appeal and the opportunity to photograph stunning views at the beach. The experience is suitable for all levels, with children riding on smaller horses or being led by guides. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the peacefulness of the horses, although a few guests noted the ride was shorter than expected and the timing might be flexible. One reviewer mentioned, “The 14-year-old horse guide was a pro and the horses were very calm,” which reassures those concerned about riding with inexperienced children.
Bottom Line: If you want a laid-back, scenic horse ride with a supportive guide and good value, this tour makes a great choice—especially for families or first-timers interested in a gentle introduction to Salento’s outdoors.
2. Boat tour Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area
Priced at about $48.62 per person, this boat tour offers a three-hour voyage around the Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area aboard the historic motor vessel Santa Maria. Originally a fishing boat built in oak and iroko wood, it now provides panoramic decks and a dining area—perfect for relaxing while exploring the coast. The boat’s route includes visits to key sites like Isola Grande, also called Isola dei Conigli, and archaeological excavations from the Bronze Age.
The highlight is the chance to see archaeological ruins, uninhabited islets, and marine wildlife—sometimes including dolphins and sea turtles. Reviewers note the sunset cruise as a favorite, with one saying, “The 5:00 cruise was perfect, and we saw a beautiful sunset,” emphasizing how magical an evening trip can be. The boat crew is praised for their professionalism, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for all ages.
However, some guests wish the apericena (snack and drink service) was more substantial, but overall, the experience offers great value for its price. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic boat ride with a touch of archaeology and wildlife.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sunset lovers and those interested in combining natural beauty with a bit of local history, this cruise offers a memorable way to spend part of your day in Lecce’s nearby marine parks.
3. Kayak Tour: Porto Cesareo and the Marine Protected Area
At just $57.88 per person, this kayak adventure is the most active of our options. Led by a marine biologist, you paddle along the coastlines of Malva and Conigli Islands in the Porto Cesareo Marine Reserve, learning about its flora and fauna along the way. The tour lasts roughly three hours and includes snorkeling gear, so you can explore underwater archaeological ruins or spot colorful fish and sea turtles.
What makes this tour appealing is its eco-friendly approach. Not only do you see spectacular scenery, but you also learn about the ecosystem from someone who knows it intimately. One reviewer raved, “Francesco, our guide, was very passionate and made the day extra special,” highlighting the personalized, educational aspect of this experience. The stops for swimming and snorkeling are especially popular, giving you a chance to connect with marine life in a natural setting.
The main drawback is the moderate review score of 3.0/5, mainly due to some guests feeling the trip was a bit too basic or weather-dependent. Still, for those comfortable with physical activity and interested in marine science, this is a fun, interactive way to explore.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking an active, informative experience that combines paddling and snorkeling, this kayak tour suits outdoor enthusiasts and curious travelers eager to learn about marine environments up close.
$57.88 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Park Adventure
When selecting between these National Park Tours in Lecce, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. For a laid-back family experience with scenic photo ops, the horse ride is ideal. If you prefer a leisurely cruise with archaeological sights and wildlife, the boat tour offers excellent value and relaxation. For active travelers who love to paddle and snorkel, the kayak trip provides an immersive experience in the marine environment.
Think about timing too—if you want a sunset view, the boat cruise is best at dusk. If you’re traveling with children or seniors, the horse ride’s gentle pace might be more suitable. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure spots on these popular excursions.
Final Thoughts
Lecce provides a surprising variety of nature-based tours that let you enjoy the outdoors while exploring the region’s scenic landscapes and seascapes. Whether you prefer relaxing horseback rides, scenic boat cruises, or active kayaking trips, there’s something to match your style and energy level. For those seeking a family-friendly outing, the horseback ride is hard to beat. Adventure seekers and marine enthusiasts will appreciate the boat and kayak tours for their engaging experiences and educational value.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable excursions. Each tour offers a different way to connect with the natural beauty that surrounds Lecce—so pick what excites you most and get ready for a memorable outdoor adventure.