Panoramic Tour Matera: see the Sassi from a new perspective

See Matera’s most memorable views on a panoramic Ape tour through the Sassi, the Gravina and the historic centre.

Panoramic Tour Matera: see how the Sassi fit together

Why choose a panoramic tour in Matera

Matera changes dramatically from one viewpoint to the next: tufa walls, cave dwellings, terraces, church towers and the Gravina canyon all appear within a relatively small area. A Panoramic Tour of Matera connects these views and helps you understand the shape of the city.

Travelling aboard Barabba’s Ape means less time spent moving between viewpoints and more time looking, taking photographs and appreciating the landscape.

Views of the Sassi and the Gravina

Panoramas over Sasso Caveoso and the Gravina are among the most memorable parts of the route. From these viewpoints you can see the relationship between the rock-hewn city and the natural canyon below.

The tour also passes through parts of the historic centre, connecting the Sassi with the upper city rather than treating them as a separate attraction.

A sightseeing tour with time for photos

Planned photo stops give you time to frame the views instead of trying to photograph Matera while moving. The aim is not just to collect pictures, but to stop long enough to understand what you are seeing.

For a more itinerary-focused page, see our Sassi Tour Matera.

Panoramic Ape tour with Barabba

The experience lasts about 50 minutes and includes a multilingual audio guide. Francesco “Barabba” drives the route and stops at strategic viewpoints. Full operational details are also available on the Sassi di Matera Tuk Tuk Tour page.

Itinerary and Main Stages
of the Sassi di Matera Tuk Tuk Tour

Departure from the point agreed at booking
Brief presentation of the tour

Sasso Caveoso
We walk through the alleys carved into the rock, admiring the perfectly preserved cave dwellings
Stop at the Belvedere for a breathtaking view of the Gravina canyon

Rock Churches
Pass by the Church of San Pietro Barisano and the small hidden crypts
Anecdotes on rituals, paintings and millenary legends

Casa Grotta
Stop to discover the typical rock dwelling
Explanation of the techniques of daily life in the past

Piazza Duomo and Palombaro Lungo
Arrival in the square with a view of the Cathedral
Short panoramic tour above the large underground reservoir, with curiosities about the ancient cisterns

Back through the alleyways
The tuk-tuk climbs up through the narrowest and most atmospheric alleyways
Last stop for photos

What It Includes

Duration: 50 Minute Tour
Panoramic and protected tuk-tuk: perfect for every season
Ergonomic seats and ample space for light luggage
Multilingual audio guides in all world languages
Expert driver and narrator: Francesco “Barabba”
Photo-stops at strategic points and tips for the best shots

Practical Information

Meeting point: Agreed at the time of booking
End point of tour: Any point in the centre of Matera
Available times: from 09:00 to 21:00
Suitable for everyone: children, seniors and people with reduced mobility.

Experience Matera at 360°: from the millenary history of the Sassi to the unspoilt nature of the Murgia, all in one unforgettable journey with Barabba!