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The 2 Best National Park Tours in Corsica
Corsica isn’t just famous for its rugged mountains and clear blue waters—it’s also home to some spectacular protected areas like Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike many destinations where you’re limited to land-based explorations, Corsica offers boat tours that unlock the island’s hidden corners and dramatic coastlines. We particularly love how these trips combine eco-conscious travel with authentic experiences like visiting the remote village of Girolata or marveling at the towering Calanche de Piana rock formations.
If you’re considering a national park tour in Corsica, you’ll appreciate that options range from half-day eco-friendly cruises to full-day adventures packed with sightseeing and cultural stops. Both tours on our list provide access to Scandola Nature Reserve, but each offers a different experience suited for various interests and time constraints. To help you decide, we’ve broken down what makes each one special and worth your time.
1. From Ota: Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Friendly Boat Tour
This eco-hybrid boat tour from Porto is perfect if you want to explore Scandola without adding to pollution. At just $53 per person for about 3 to 4.5 hours, it offers remarkable value. The boat is an eco-friendly hybrid vessel, so you can enjoy the pristine scenery with a smaller environmental footprint. The tour includes a stop in Girolata, a tiny, secluded village accessible only by sea or foot, making it a unique highlight.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on wildlife and ecosystem education. The onboard guide shares insights about endemic bird species, like sea eagles and peregrine falcons, that thrive in the reserve. The highlight for many travelers is the chance to see spectacular rock formations of the Calanche de Piana if you choose to upgrade your booking. The itinerary is flexible, with a guided visit to the reserve and a relaxing Gulf of Porto sightseeing segment.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for eco-minded travelers wanting a shorter, intimate experience with wildlife and natural beauty. The small group size and focus on sustainability make it a responsible way to see Corsica’s coast.
2. Ajaccio/Porticcio: Scandola Nature Reserve Guided Boat Tour
For a full-day adventure, the Ajaccio/Porticcio guided boat tour offers an immersive experience for about $80 per person. It includes a two-hour stop in Girolata for lunch, giving you time to explore the village at a leisurely pace. This tour covers much more ground, including the rock formations of the Calanche de Piana and the historic Capo Rosso Tower.
This guided excursion is perfect if you want a comprehensive tour, with sightseeing at multiple highlights. The itinerary features Scandola Nature Reserve, plus stops at the Gulf of Porto and Calanques de Piana, making it suitable for travelers who want a deeper dive into Corsica’s natural beauty. The tour departs from two convenient locations, either Quai de la République or Plage de la Viva Beach, making it flexible depending on your base.
The reviews are strong, with travelers appreciating the full-day format and the knowledgeable guide. However, it is more expensive and longer, so it’s best suited for those wanting a thorough exploration and comfortable with a full-day outing.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for travelers with a full day to spare, eager to combine boat trips with cultural stops and iconic rock formations. It’s a great value for those wanting an in-depth look at Corsica’s coast.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two national park tours in Corsica, consider your priorities. If you prefer a shorter, eco-conscious trip that maximizes wildlife viewing with minimal environmental impact, the From Ota tour is perfect. It’s also a good choice if you’re on a tighter schedule or traveling with kids interested in nature.
On the other hand, if you have a full day and want to explore more sights, including a charming village and multiple viewpoints, the Ajaccio/Porticcio guided tour offers more variety and a relaxed pace. Both tours include visits to Girolata, but the full-day option provides a longer stop and additional sightseeing opportunities.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as these tours are popular. Consider your physical stamina and interests—if wildlife and eco-awareness excite you, the first option is a perfect match. If cultural sites and comprehensive sightseeing appeal more, the second is the way to go.
Final Thoughts
Corsica’s Scandola Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of stunning scenery and wildlife, best explored from the water. Both tours deliver memorable experiences—whether you opt for the eco-friendly half-day trip from Porto or the full-day guided adventure from Ajaccio.
For travelers looking for an intimate, environmentally conscious outing, the From Ota: Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Friendly Boat Tour is an excellent choice. But if you want a comprehensive day of exploring Corsica’s dramatic coast and charming villages, go for the Ajaccio/Porticcio guided boat tour.
Either way, these tours offer a fantastic way to experience Corsica’s wild beauty. Be sure to book early, pack your camera, and prepare for some of the most breathtaking scenery the island has to offer.
