Experience the Magic of Birds of Prey in Calabria’s Naturalistic Falconry Center
If you’re seeking an authentic, hands-on encounter with some of nature’s most impressive predators, the Interactive Educational Course on Birds of Prey in Calabria should be high on your list. For around $40.55 per person, you get about three hours of engaging, educational fun in a setting that’s as natural as it gets—away from the crowds, and close to the stunning Pollino mountains. Led by knowledgeable guides like Roberto, who clearly loves sharing his passion, this experience offers a rare chance to meet majestic birds such as eagles, owls, buzzards, and hawks, with the opportunity to get surprisingly close and even pat these incredible animals.
What we especially love about this tour is how it balances informative storytelling with interactive moments. You’re not just watching birds from a distance; you’re involved—learning their biology, understanding their behaviors, and feeling the thrill of a close encounter, like hearing the heartbeat of Abel, the golden eagle. The setting itself, a small but beautifully maintained naturalistic center, adds to the sense of authenticity. On the flip side, a minor consideration is that finding the location can be tricky—there’s only a small sign marking the way, so arriving with GPS and patience is wise.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy learning about wildlife firsthand, especially those interested in birds of prey, falconry, or rural Italian landscapes. It’s perfect for families, bird enthusiasts, or anyone craving a meaningful connection with nature that’s both fun and respectful.
Key Points
- Authentic Interaction: You’ll get the chance to observe and even pat multiple birds of prey, not just see them from afar.
- Expert Guides: Roberto and his team are passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience both fun and educational.
- Natural Setting: The center’s location in Pollino offers beautiful mountain views and a peaceful environment.
- Short and Manageable: Approximately three hours, making it easy to fit into a day without feeling rushed.
- Suitable for All: The program is gentle and accessible, with no demanding physical activity involved.
- Limited Signage: Be prepared for a slightly hidden location, so use GPS carefully.
A Closer Look at the Experience
The tour begins at the Setteventi del Pollino headquarters, where you’ll meet your guide, typically around 3:00 pm. The entire activity spans roughly three hours, during which your group will follow an interactive path through the naturalistic falconry center. The journey is broken into three parts: initial introduction, hands-on interactions, and storytelling about each bird’s biology and role in the environment.
The first part offers a gentle walk of about 300-400 meters, so you won’t need to be particularly fit. The center’s location in Calabria’s Pollino mountains means you’re surrounded by quiet, scenic views—an ideal backdrop for this quiet, contemplative experience. The parking is reserved and guarded, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is safe.
What truly sets this experience apart is the personalized attention. As multiple reviewers have pointed out, guides like Roberto are not only experts but also engaging storytellers. One reviewer mentioned how Roberto’s jovial presentation kept the raptors calm and allowed the group to gently pat the birds, which is a rare privilege in such encounters. You’ll learn fascinating facts about species like the majestic eagle owl Shira, the curious barn owl Cloud, and the naughty buzzard Zeus—each bird with its own personality and story.
The highlight for many is the close-up encounter with Abel, the golden eagle, where you can hear the beating of his heart—an unforgettable moment that makes the whole trip worthwhile. The experience is designed to foster respect and understanding for these animals, so expect a tone that’s both educational and deeply respectful.
The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a sense of connection to the natural world and a handful of memorable stories to share.
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Why This Tour Offers Great Value
Compared to larger, commercialized wildlife attractions, this center offers a more intimate and genuine experience. For $40.55, you gain more than just a sightseeing stop—you get direct interaction, tailored storytelling, and the chance to safely observe birds that are actively being reintroduced into the area. Several reviewers have called it “very enjoyable” and “a magic moment,” emphasizing the emotional impact of such close contact.
The small group size—since it’s a private tour—enables personalized attention, which many travelers find enhances the overall value. Since it’s booked about 25 days in advance on average, planning ahead ensures you don’t miss out, especially during peak seasons.
Details Matter: What to Expect
Itinerary Breakdown:
– Meet at the headquarters at 3:00 pm.
– Short walk through the natural surroundings (300-400 meters).
– Interactive storytelling about each bird, its biology, and habitat.
– Hands-on time with the birds, including the chance to pat and get close, under guided supervision.
– Final encounter with Abel, the golden eagle, where you’ll hear his heartbeat.
– Return to the original meeting point.
Group Size & Accessibility:
– The tour is private, so only your group participates.
– Suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility—though it’s best to confirm specific needs directly.
– No demanding physical activity involved.
Parking & Location:
– Guarded parking is available, but the small signage may make the place tricky to find; GPS is recommended.
– The experience takes place in a peaceful, scenic mountain setting, away from urban distractions.
Timing & Duration:
– Starts at 3:00 pm, lasting about three hours.
– Endings are back at the starting point, making it easy to plan the rest of your afternoon or evening.
Cost & Booking:
– Priced at $40.55 per person, offering strong value given the personalized interaction and exclusive nature of the tour.
– Booking is typically made 25 days in advance, so plan accordingly.
Authentic Reviews and Perspectives
Many visitors have shared glowing praise, highlighting Roberto’s expertise and the thrill of close encounters. One reviewer said, “Roberto is a real expert and a jovial presenter who keeps the raptors calm so we can pat them, many surprising facts made this attraction the best.” Another appreciated the stunning surroundings, noting the quiet, scenic Pollino mountains outside Civita.
A guest who was the only participant described the experience as “very beautiful and quiet,” emphasizing the calm ambiance and the intimacy of the tour. Others appreciated how the guide’s storytelling made the birds’ biology come alive, transforming what could have been a simple visit into a meaningful moment of connection with nature.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re passionate about wildlife, bird watching, or falconry, this tour offers a rare, hands-on opportunity to connect with magnificent raptors in a natural setting. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic encounters over staged shows, and for travelers seeking a peaceful, educational activity that’s suitable for all ages.
Families with curious kids, bird lovers, or anyone interested in rural Italy’s natural charm will find this tour both enjoyable and enlightening. The focus on respectful interaction and expert guidance makes it a standout choice for a meaningful, memorable experience.
While the location’s signage might be discreet, the effort to find it pays off with a quiet, scenic environment and a heartfelt encounter with Italy’s impressive birds of prey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy animals and nature will find it especially engaging. It’s gentle and interactive without demanding physical activity.
How long is the experience?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, making it easy to fit into a half-day itinerary without feeling rushed.
Can I pat the birds?
Yes, guided by Roberto, you’ll have the chance to gently pat some of the birds, which is a rare and memorable part of the tour.
Is the location easy to find?
While the parking is reserved and secure, the sign for the center is small, so arriving with GPS is recommended.
What species of birds will I see?
You’ll encounter a variety of birds, including an eagle owl named Shira, a barn owl Cloud, buzzard Zeus, and the majestic Abel, the golden eagle.
What is the main focus of this tour?
The focus is on education—learning about the biology, behavior, and conservation of birds of prey—delivered through storytelling and close interaction.
This tour provides a sincere, intimate look at some of nature’s most majestic predators, paired with expert guidance in a tranquil setting. If your goal is to see and understand birds of prey like never before, it’s a well-priced, rewarding experience worth seeking out in Calabria.