Asinara Island Full-Day Minivan Tour from Stintino — Wild Donkeys, Prison Ruins & Secret Coves
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short, easy walks and long periods sitting in vehicle and boat transfers.
Overview
Board a motorboat at Tanca Manna and spend a day touring Asinara National Park by minivan—exploring abandoned prison sites, meeting free-roaming white donkeys and mouflon, and swimming in crystalline coves. This full-day excursion blends natural history, conservation visits, and plenty of photo stops.
Asinara Island Full-Day Minivan Tour from Stintino — Wild Donkeys, Prison Ruins & Secret Coves
Select participants and date
At the Tanca Manna pier the harbor smells of diesel and salt; the motorboat Ausonia slips away from Stintino and the mainland falls behind like a map being folded shut. In an hour you arrive at Fornelli, a small jetty on Asinara where stone buildings stand quiet under a wind that seems to watch visitors carefully. From here the minivan becomes your way of reading the island — a low, steady hum over gravel tracks that run past abandoned prison blocks, fenced recovery enclosures, and coves where the sea dares you to dive.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring at least 2 liters of water
There are limited refill options on the island; carry water to stay hydrated during sun-exposed stops.
Pack a reusable snorkel and mask
Cala Sabina is prime for snorkeling—having your own gear avoids sharing and improves your time in the water.
Wear sturdy walking shoes
Short walks across rocky ground and loose gravel are part of the tour; trail shoes or light hikers are best.
Carry cash for local fees
The municipal landing fee is payable locally and credit card acceptance is limited; bring small euros.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Albino (white) donkeys
- Mouflon and feral horses
History
Asinara served as a quarantine and high-security prison for much of the 20th century; many of the island’s buildings are former penal structures now observed rather than occupied.
Conservation
The island is a protected national park with strict zoning; visitors should stick to paths, respect wildlife distances, and avoid bringing single-use plastics to help preserve habitats.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Stintino
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
2L hydration system or water bottles
Essential for sun-exposed stops and limited refill points on the island.
Sturdy walking shoes
Protects your feet on rocky tracks and uneven surfaces during short walks.
Swimsuit and snorkel set
Use it at Cala Sabina to explore clear water and nearshore marine life.
summer specific
Light windproof layer and sunhat
Wind can be cool even in sunny weather; a layer and hat protect against sun and spray.
spring specific