Though small in size, the park that extends from San Vito Lo Capo to Scopello is heaven for naturalists, walkers and horseback riders (for whom there is limited access). Those looking for a brief, easy stroll can walk for as long as they wish from either of the two entrances, Scopello to the south or San Vito Lo Capo to the north. The principal coastal trail is an easy 2½ hour walk, the caves and secluded beaches perfect hideaways for a pair of brigands in love. Those who wish a longer, more strenuous excursion may leave the coastal path at any of the trails leading up into the mountains, whose alpine meadows afford grand vistas of the sea below.

The Coastal Path

The celebrated coastal path extends from just outside the village of Scopello north along the coast of the preserve, finishing some 8km outside San Vito Lo Capo.

One could start the walk from either the southern Scopello entrance or from the northern San Vito Lo Capo access. For the northern entry, follow the road signs past the town of San Vito Lo Capo until road's end, where there is a parking lot and a ranger/information station (Centro informazione dell'Ente gestore). The very well marked path begins from here. The route is lined with diverse flower species, some 40 of which are native to the reserve. The Nana palm, the symbol of the Zingaro, is also found throughout. Almost immediately after the northern entrance one attains the stunning white sand beach of the Tonnarella dell'Uzzo, formerly a small fishing camp. The clear turquoise water here and elsewhere along the coast invites further exploration. Not only are swimming trunks in order, but also snorkeling gear: The Zingaro has a rich diverstity of underwater marine life. After the Tonnarello dell'Uzzo a trail branches off for the Baglio Cusenza, but continue straight along the coast. Soon pass the Torre dell'Uzzo and the Grotta dell'Uzzo, the cave where human remains were found dating from 10,000 years ago. The trail continues a bit above the coast, but take some time to explore the hidden coves where Dolomitic rock comes straight down to the sea. The trail toward the Grotta del Sughero branches off to the right; for spelunkers this is the most interesting of the Zingaro caves. Stay along the coastal trail and soon pass through several abandoned habitations. Here there are also several groves of almond trees, which begin to bloom in early March. The coastal trail now skirts high above several beautiful small coves with white sand beaches, the Cala Marinella, Cala Berretta, Cala della Disa, and the Cala del Varo. Reach the trail to the Punta Capreria, where there are panoramic views of the coast. Finally there is the Visitor's Center (Centro visitori) and the southern entrance to the park. One must pass through a man-made tunnel to exit: this was to be the beginning of the 1980 road project. After the tunnel it is a fifteen-minute walk to the village of Scopello, whose tiny center has some fine trattorie and alberghi (San Vito Lo Capo is a bigger town, with more hotels and restaurants, but is not quite as cute as Scopello). Average walking time is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes; allow for double that time for a return walk.

Into the Mountains

For those who wish to make a loop, return to their starting point without retracing their steps on the coastal path, there exist several fine alternatives. From the San Vito Lo Capo entrance pass the Tonnarella del'Uzzo and the Torre del'Uzzo before turning off on the trail for the Grotta del Sughero. Climb up to this marvelous cave then head right at the next trail intersection. Reach Baglio Cusenza, the abandoned cluster of farm habitations set in high pastures above the sea. Descend past the Grotta Mastro Peppe Siino and return to the coastal path near the Tonnarella del'Uzzo; take a left here to return to San Vito Lo Capo. This route takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Another excellent, much longer itinerary follows the above route until Baglio Cusenza. From here ascend to reserve's scenic crest (which runs from 600-800m above sea level) and traverse below Monte Passo del Lupo (868m) and Monte Speciale (913m), the highest points in the park. Pass Monte Scardina (680m) and a forest of Aleppo pines before loop back to the Grotta del Sughero and the coastal trail. Take a left here to return to San Vito Lo Capo. Allow about 9 hours for this route, and be prepared for a good 700m of elevation gain.