Where to do trekking in Pollino between Calabria and Basilicata?
By River Tribe Adventure · Updated July 2026
Relevant team expertise: Mario Miraglia · Staff trekking · mountain bike · e-bikeIn the Pollino National Park you walk on both sides, Calabrian and Lucanian. The choice does not depend only on the summit: duration, difference in altitude, surface, season and preparation of the group must be considered. River Tribe organizes guided trekking from cultural and family experiences up to days towards Serra Dolcedorme, Giardino degli Dei and Serra delle Ciavole, with starting point and itinerary confirmed based on conditions.
Calabrian side and Lucanian side
The Pollino massif is located on the border between Calabria and Basilicata. The Park Authority also organizes the official cartography distinguishing the two sides: for this reason the meeting place, access road and approach times must be checked before leaving. Laino Borgo is the Calabrian base of River Tribe and allows you to combine the route with the Lao River and the villages of the valley.
Which itinerary to choose
Serra Dolcedorme is a challenging day towards the highest peak in the area; Giardino degli Dei and Serra delle Ciavole are linked to the landscapes of the loricated pines. Cultural Trekking, the donkey excursion along the Lao and the proposals for families reduce the sporting component and give more space to the territory and the story. The level declared in the cards remains an orientation to be verified with the guide.
When to go and what to communicate
The Pollino changes a lot between valley and altitude. Even in summer you need boots, water, protection from the sun and a layer for wind or rain; in intermediate seasons, wet surfaces, cold or residual snow may change the programme. Before booking, communicate your age, recent experience, habit of walking for several hours and any needs: this is information that helps you choose, not a test to pass.
Why choose a guide
A guide doesn't just replace the map. He reads the weather, terrain and pace of the group, decides when to change a route and gives context to the geology, woods and local communities. River Tribe entrusts the excursions to Environmental Hiking Guides or Official Park Guides; the final feasibility is confirmed on real conditions.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the trekking higher than the Pollino?
- The climb to Serra Dolcedorme leads to the highest peak in the area, indicated by UNESCO at 2,267 metres. It is a challenging excursion to choose with adequate preparation and favorable conditions.
- Are there easy trekkings in the Pollino?
- Yes. In addition to the summit excursions, there are cultural proposals, for families and along the Lao valley. Easy does not mean without variables: depth, heat and duration must still be evaluated.
- Is the Pollino in Calabria or in Basilicata?
- In both. The massif and the Park extend over the regional border; each card must therefore specify the meeting point and access of the chosen itinerary.
