Riserva Naturale fiume Ciane
1 / 10

Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve Syracuse

3.6
·94 reviews·Siracusa, Italy

A vital nature reserve in Syracuse, home to flamingos and diverse birdlife, offering stunning salt pan landscapes and river excursions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Best for birdwatching

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Riserva Naturale fiume Ciane

Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve Syracuse

Best Time

Early mornings

Best for birdwatching

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vital nature reserve in Syracuse, home to flamingos and diverse birdlife, offering stunning salt pan landscapes and river excursions.

3.6
(94 reviews)

"Beautiful natural spot with incredible flamingo sightings, though path access can be limited."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Path Status

Some paths may be closed due to safety. Verify accessibility before your visit. :warning:

Bus Access

Bus 123 from Siracusa is an option, but be mindful of waiting times for return journeys. :bus:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Flamingo Spotting

Flamingo Spotting

Saline di Priolo

Witness flocks of vibrant flamingos, including newly hatched chicks, in their natural habitat. A truly magical sight!

Kingfisher Sightings

Kingfisher Sightings

Along the riverbanks

Keep an eye out for the dazzling flash of a kingfisher, a beautiful resident of the reserve's waterways.

Sunrise Views

Sunrise Views

Eastern viewpoints

Experience breathtaking sunrises over the salt pans, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Wildlife

The Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve is a haven for birdlife, especially flamingos. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best chances for sightings and stunning light for photography. Be aware that some paths may be closed due to safety concerns, so check local conditions before you go.

Accessibility and Path Conditions

While the reserve offers walking routes, some paths can be closed due to collapse risks, limiting access. The main asphalt path is only passable for a short stretch. Consider checking local updates or opting for boat excursions if available for a more comprehensive experience.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Best for birdwatching
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour photography
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mokrito ortigia Ormai tutti lo conoscono l aperitivo piu buono di ortigia😍 #aperifish #pranzoveloce #aperitivo #aperitivodipesce #mokrito #siracusa #sicilia #ortigia #catania #fastcasualfood #casualdining #fastfood #viralvideo #andiavirali #voliamoneiperte
@mokrito
52.1K likes • 2.9M views

Check Path Status

Some paths may be closed due to safety. Verify accessibility before your visit. :warning:

Bus Access

Bus 123 from Siracusa is an option, but be mindful of waiting times for return journeys. :bus:

Via dei benedictis 6. Ortigia @CaseificioBorderi If you know you know!!! @caseificioborderiofficial started as a cheese stand then they started making cheese and then with a he kids help they started making panini. What a beautiful panini story 🌭❤️ #ortigia #siracusa #borderi #caseificioborderi #sicily #sicilia #rockin_kitchen_sicily #panino #panini #italy #rockinkitchensicily
@rockinkitchensicily
40.3K likes • 1.1M views
Alle Saline di Priolo la vita si rinnova. Questo giovane fenicottero, da poco nato, inizia il suo cammino nel mondo: fragile, curioso, libero. Una piccola meraviglia della natura. 🦩🦩🦩 #lipu #salinepriolo #riservasaline #sitonatura2000 #naturalreserve #birds #birdsofinstagram #birdlovers #birdwatching #birdphotography #flamingo #flamingolove #flamingoparty #sistemaareenaturaliprotetteregionesicilia...
riservasaline
132 likes • 1.6K views

Wildlife Photography

Bring your camera for stunning shots of flamingos and other birds. :camera:

Boat Excursions

Consider boat trips for a different perspective and to explore the river. :boat:

#salinedipriolo #priologargallo #siracusa #sicilia_in_grande #naturephotography #travelphotography #photographer
enry_ferlito
110 likes • 506 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Path Status

Some paths may be closed due to safety. Verify accessibility before your visit. :warning:

Bus Access

Bus 123 from Siracusa is an option, but be mindful of waiting times for return journeys. :bus:

Wildlife Photography

Bring your camera for stunning shots of flamingos and other birds. :camera:

Boat Excursions

Consider boat trips for a different perspective and to explore the river. :boat:

What Travellers Say

3.6
(94 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the reserve's natural beauty and the opportunity to see wildlife, especially flamingos. However, some express disappointment with the limited accessibility of walking paths due to safety concerns and a lack of maintenance in certain areas. The potential for long waits for public transport is also a noted drawback.

"Worked out how to get a bus (123) from Siracusa to this reserve . Got there only to find that you can walk in for about 400 meters and then you hit a sign and a barrier that you can’t pass. 2 hours wait for the next bus back !"

Valerie Busby

"Beautiful natural spot. I hope it gets cared for and protected properly"

Douglas O'Neil

"Top"

laura cuschera

What People Like

Abundant wildlife sightings
Beautiful natural scenery
Sunrise photography opportunities

What People Dislike

Limited path accessibility
Maintenance issues
Long bus waits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take bus number 123 from Syracuse to reach the reserve. However, be aware that waiting times for the return bus can be long, so plan accordingly. Reddit

While driving is an option, some visitors have noted that the main asphalt path is only passable for a short stretch, and road closures due to collapse risks can affect access. Reddit

Information on specific parking facilities is limited, but it's advisable to check for designated areas upon arrival, especially if driving.

Walking to the reserve from Syracuse is a considerable distance and not typically recommended for a day visit. Public transport or driving are the more practical options.

While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, local tour operators in Syracuse might offer guided excursions to the reserve. It's worth inquiring locally.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the reserve is generally free, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty. However, specific areas or guided tours might have associated costs. Reddit

Specific opening hours can vary, and some paths may have restricted access. It's best to check for the most current information closer to your visit, especially regarding any seasonal changes. Reddit

The Saline di Priolo area, part of the reserve, is a natural habitat. While general access is often free, specific facilities or guided activities might incur a fee.

Yes, the reserve is typically open on weekends, offering opportunities for nature exploration. However, weekends might see slightly more visitors compared to weekdays.

While an official website for direct booking might not be prominent, the LIPU (Lega Italiana Protezione Uccelli) organization is involved, and their resources may offer further details. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Saline di Priolo area is excellent for capturing flamingos, especially during sunrise. The riverbanks offer opportunities for bird photography like kingfishers. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Sunrise photography is particularly recommended, with the salt pans creating a beautiful backdrop. Instagram

You can photograph a variety of bird species, most notably flamingos, and potentially kingfishers. The diverse ecosystem supports rich wildlife. TikTokInstagram

For general amateur photography, permits are usually not required. However, for professional or commercial photography, it's advisable to inquire about specific regulations.

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for wildlife photography, and these are also prime times for observing animal activity. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The main asphalt path is only passable for a short stretch. Other paths may be closed due to the risk of collapse, limiting exploration. Reddit

Yes, there are walking routes along the Ciane River, but access can be restricted on certain paths due to safety concerns. Reddit

Boat excursions on the river are mentioned as an option for exploring the reserve, offering a different perspective than walking routes. Reddit

You can enjoy beautiful views of Syracuse on the horizon from certain points within the reserve. Reddit

Some visitors have noted that the reserve is not always well-maintained, with path closures being a concern. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve can be a fascinating outing for families, offering a chance to see wildlife like flamingos up close. TikTok While the reserve's natural beauty is appealing, parents should be aware that some walking paths may be closed due to safety concerns, which could limit stroller access or extensive exploration. Reddit It's advisable to focus on the accessible areas and perhaps consider a boat excursion if available, as this might offer a more engaging experience for children. Pack snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. The educational aspect of observing different bird species can be a great learning opportunity for kids.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve is a dream destination, especially for wildlife photography. The Saline di Priolo area is renowned for its flamingo populations, offering incredible opportunities to capture these elegant birds in their natural habitat, including young chicks. TikTok The sunrise here is particularly spectacular, bathing the salt pans in golden light, making it a prime spot for landscape and nature photographers. Instagram Keep your lenses ready for the elusive kingfisher along the riverbanks. Instagram Remember that early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting conditions and are peak times for wildlife activity. TikTok

🚶 Nature Walkers & Birdwatchers

Nature walkers and birdwatchers will find the Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve a rewarding visit. The reserve is a vital sanctuary for numerous bird species, with flamingos being a major draw. TikTok While some walking routes are available, be prepared for potential path closures due to safety issues, which might affect the length of your walk. Reddit The best times for observation are early mornings and late afternoons when wildlife is most active. Instagram Consider checking for boat excursion options as they can provide access to different parts of the reserve and offer unique viewing opportunities. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Wildlife Wonders: A Birdwatcher's Paradise

The Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve is a crucial habitat for a diverse array of bird species, making it a prime destination for birdwatching and nature photography. The most iconic residents are the flamingos that frequent the salt pans of Saline di Priolo. Visitors have captured images of young flamingos taking their first steps, highlighting the reserve's role in breeding and conservation. TikTok Beyond the flamingos, keep an eye out for the vibrant flash of a kingfisher darting along the riverbanks, a testament to the healthy aquatic ecosystem. Instagram The reserve's importance is recognized as part of the Natura 2000 network, underscoring its ecological significance. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons are consistently recommended as the best times for wildlife observation, offering both optimal light for photography and increased chances of spotting active birds. Instagram While the reserve is a natural haven, it's important to note that some areas might have restricted access due to safety concerns, as mentioned by visitors. Reddit This means that while the potential for incredible wildlife encounters is high, flexibility in your exploration plans might be necessary.

Navigating the Reserve: Access and Excursions

Getting to and around the Ciane River and Saline Nature Reserve requires some planning. While bus 123 from Syracuse provides public transport access, visitors should be prepared for potentially long waits for return journeys. Reddit For those driving, the main asphalt path offers limited accessibility, with closures due to collapse risks affecting the extent of exploration possible on foot. Reddit This means that while you can walk in for a short distance, your access might be curtailed. Reddit

To overcome these limitations and experience the reserve more fully, boat excursions on the Ciane River are a recommended alternative. Reddit These excursions offer a unique perspective of the landscape and its inhabitants, potentially allowing access to areas not reachable by foot. Visitors have also noted that from certain vantage points, there are beautiful views of Syracuse on the horizon, adding another layer to the experience. Reddit Despite some challenges with path maintenance, the natural beauty and wildlife make it a worthwhile destination for nature enthusiasts.

You may also like