★ QUICK START SUMMARY

Route: Santa Maria Navarrese → Pedra Longa → Cala Goloritzè → Cala Sisine
Duration: 4-5 days (classic route)
Difficulty: EXTREME — T6 hiking, 8 rappels (up to 50m), exposed terrain
Best Season: April-May or September-October (avoid summer heat)
Cost: €300-500 self-organized vs €1,500-2,000 guided
Required: Rappelling experience, GPS navigation, multi-day trekking skills

● The Wild Blue Trek on Your Own

The Selvaggio Blu is one of Europe's most challenging and rewarding treks, winding through the dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves of Sardinia's Gulf of Orosei. This guide is designed to help experienced trekkers tackle the route independently, without the need for expensive guided tours.

With proper preparation, the right skills, and attention to detail, completing the Selvaggio Blu on your own is an achievable goal. Anyone capable should push beyond the known — rediscover the taste of adventure, of getting lost, of finding oneself again, and of devising ingenious solutions.

⚠ IMPORTANT WARNING ⚠

The Selvaggio Blu is an extreme trek. If you have never done a solo trek, have no climbing experience, and do not know how to manage rappel descents, it is strongly recommended to hire an experienced local guide.

Taking for granted that anyone who wants to embark on this adventure has the physical abilities to walk on extremely aggressive terrain for at least four consecutive days, the challenges are not limited to muscle strength. To successfully complete the Selvaggio Blu, you need much more.

First and foremost: organization and attention to detail. These are the fundamental points we will examine in detail:

  • The Route: Learn the daily stages and the difficulties of the path
  • Booking: Communicate and book your excursion with the municipality of Baunei
  • Kit List: Select the proper equipment
  • Rope Descents: Know the details and how to use the equipment
  • Clothing: Carefully choose the minimum necessary clothing
  • Food: Precisely calculate the amount of water and food needed for all days
  • Safety Tips: Essential advice for your security

● Logistics Service

One thing is doing the Selvaggio Blu without a guide, committing to finding the route without getting lost. Another thing entirely is walking for days on rocky terrain and exposed passages with a heavy and bulky backpack loaded with rope, harness, helmet, tent, sleeping bag, clothes, and most importantly water, food, and various cookware.

💧 The Water Problem

You may have read or heard that the biggest problem on the Selvaggio Blu is getting water. Along the entire route, there are no natural supply points, except for the S'Erriu Mortu river (at the beginning of the first day) and the Grotta dell'Acqua (Water Cave, on the third day). But these are not 100% reliable.

...and you need a LOT of water: at least 3 liters per person during the day, plus water for cooking. If you want to save water, the Selvaggio Blu will no longer be just a trek but a true survival test.

So, unless the goal is to join the Marines, it is advisable not to skimp but to request logistics support. Lightening the load and having food and water delivered daily is highly recommended. Even better: two daily deliveries:

  • Evening delivery: Water, dinner, and luggage
  • Morning pickup: Take away luggage and trash, so you can walk light
✉ Request Logistics Support for the Selvaggio Blu

Contact a local logistics provider to arrange daily food, water, and luggage transport along the route.

● The Route of the Selvaggio Blu

Despite the countless variants to the path, the original Selvaggio Blu route is considered to be only one: the one established in 1987. The possible variants are numerous, but they should always be understood as variants to the original route.

The original route was divided into four daily stages, and this is the fastest solution. Those who have never done the Selvaggio Blu often make the mistake of presumption, and looking at the daily kilometers, they think they can complete it in three days or even less. Do not make the same mistake. The route is not easy to find, and even knowing it, the speed is always very slow.

...and why is it so difficult?

Unfortunately, in the Supramonte, the distance between two points and the elevation are not as relevant as the type of terrain. If you want to do the Selvaggio Blu independently — beyond the difficulty in finding the correct passages — you must be ready to face easy climbing sections, exposed traverses, and rope descents.

If you only consider distance and elevation, the second day might seem like an easy downhill walk. But it's not. The Sisiera descent and the Tenadili canyon are so challenging that they can take hours and put even the most trained in difficulty.

Experienced guides know how long it takes to walk between one point and another. This is learned in the field, and it is the only data that matters: time. Distance in the Supramonte is secondary.

Selvaggio Blu: 4 or 5 Days?

If well trained, you can complete the Selvaggio Blu in 4 days. Below is the usual table with the most beautiful stages.

For first-timers, planning for five days is recommended. Many people attempt it in 3 days, but the success rate is very low. To enjoy the trail and not spend the vacation in anxiety, plan to do it in five days.

Consider that on the first day trekkers might arrive at Pedra Longa late, or be tired from the previous evening's travel. Starting "full throttle" is not ideal and not at all relaxing. Assuming this is a vacation, an adventure to fully enjoy, taking it with the necessary calm and planning the route in five days is advisable.

📍 GPX Track Essential

A reliable GPX track is the most important resource for the success of an independent adventure on the Selvaggio Blu.

  • Expert Navigation: Avoid getting lost using tracks, precise waypoints, and detailed route information
  • Campsite Information: Look for tracks that include hard-to-find official campsites
  • Updated Information: Ensure the track is recently updated with the most recent trail conditions and any changes

Day-by-Day Route Breakdown

DAY 1: Pedra Longa to Portu Pedrosu
👣 13 km   |   ▲ +990 m   |   ▼ -1050 m

Critical Points: The climb on the Giradili ledge remains exposed to the sun and can make you consume more water than expected. The descent from Ginnirco is very demanding due to the rocky terrain and the difficulty in finding the trail.

DAY 2: Portu Pedrosu to S'Arcu 'e Su Tasaru
👣 15 km   |   ▲ +1330 m   |   ▼ -860 m

Critical Points: Long day. Entry and exit from Bacu Tenadili are demanding and require a lot of time. Better to go through Masadorgittala.

DAY 3: S'Arcu 'e su Tasaru to Bacu Padente
👣 8 km   |   ▲ +670 m   |   ▼ -850 m

Critical Points: Countless challenges, beyond the usual orientation difficulty. Dangerous rockfield before the Mudaloru descent, management of four rope descents, finding the exit from the bottom of Bacu Padente.

DAY 4: Bacu Padente to Sisine
👣 7 km   |   ▲ +820 m   |   ▼ -1070 m

Critical Points: Management of four rope descents, up to 50 meters. Via ferrata of Plumare.

★ Famous Beaches Along the Route

The Selvaggio Blu traverses some of the Mediterranean's most spectacular beaches, accessible only on foot or by boat. These are not just rest stops — they are among Italy's most celebrated natural wonders.

Beach Description On Route
Pedra Longa Iconic 128m rock spire at the start. Small restaurant available. Last guaranteed food before the wilderness. Day 1 start
Cala Goloritzè UNESCO World Heritage site. Crystal-clear turquoise waters with the famous "Aguglia" needle rising 143m from the sea. Often ranked among Italy's most beautiful beaches. Limestone arch formations. Day 3-4
Cala Sisine Classic route endpoint. Dramatic fjord-like inlet surrounded by limestone cliffs. White pebble beach with seasonal bar/restaurant. Boat pickup available here. Day 4 end
Extended Route: For those seeking more, the route can continue beyond Sisine to Cala Luna — a legendary crescent beach with caves — and onward to Cala Gonone. See the Extended Route variant for details.

● Route Variants

Choose the route that matches your skills and available time:

Variant Duration Difficulty Rappelling Best For
Classic Route 4-5 days Extreme 8 rappels (up to 50m) Experienced climbers seeking the full adventure
Short Version 2-3 days Moderate None required Hikers without rope skills
Extended Route 5 days Extreme+ 8+ rappels (up to 45m) Advanced trekkers wanting Cala Luna & Cala Gonone

Classic Route Variants

Within the classic route, several passage variations exist:

a. Boladina Variant

To climb up from Goloritzè, Verin and Cicalo identified a very obvious passage at the base of the Bacu Boladina canyon. Bacu Boladina is, or was, the most difficult and dangerous passage of the entire Selvaggio Blu. It involves a climbing section protected by an old steel cable about 15 meters long, with an overhanging start. This is followed by a debris channel (rockfield) 2 m wide and about 30 m long with a 45° slope. At the end of the channel, a carved log helps climb a 5 m high wall.

If the group is small and well trained, it is possible to try it, but the recommended option is the Masadorgittala variant.

The Masadorgittala variant was re-equipped in 2019, retracing a passage already known to local shepherds. The variant starts from the classic path that descends from Su Porteddu and climbs a rockfield to the beginning of a very exposed rock spur. This is currently equipped with stainless steel rings and a fixed rope of about 30 m. For this passage, a harness and via ferrata set are sufficient.

b. Mariolu Variant

[Detailed information available upon request]

c. Biriala Variant

[Detailed information available upon request]

● Booking the Selvaggio Blu

Since 2018, the municipality of Baunei has required mandatory registration at a dedicated office, and payment of a €30 fee per person. You must contact them to let them know your chosen itinerary, the dates you wish to do it, and how many you are.

Why Pay for the Selvaggio Blu?

The municipal ordinance has brought significant improvements to the trail experience. Here is how things have changed:

BEFORE the Ordinance AFTER the Ordinance
Trash was abandoned everywhere along the route, requiring trekkers to carry extra bags to collect litter. This is no longer necessary, as camps are limited and monitored. Logistics services now take care of removing trash.
Groups had to rush to arrive at camp before others and occupy enough tent spaces, creating competition and tension. Trekkers can enjoy the itinerary without haste, as camps are assigned by the municipality, eliminating overcrowding and competition between groups. Assigned spots are guaranteed regardless of arrival time.

The €30 fee supports trail maintenance, camp management, and environmental protection of this unique natural area.

✉ How to Book

Before departing, you must send an email to: selvaggioblu@turismobaunei.eu

Include the following information:

  • Name, surname, phone number, and email of the group leader
  • Which days you intend to travel the Selvaggio Blu
  • Which camps you wish to stay at overnight
  • Number of participants
  • If applicable, which company provides your logistics

Note: The Mariolu and Biriala camps can only be booked by groups led by Alpine Guides or Environmental Hiking Guides.

Once the municipality responds approving or modifying your plan, you can pay the €30 per person fee by bank transfer within one week of departure. The confirmation email from the municipality and the payment receipt will be the documents you must show at the entrance of Goloritzè, or in case of inspection by local police.

If you need to modify your itinerary at the last minute due to bad weather or other force majeure, you must contact the office by email, or at:

☎ +39 349 546 2583
(Mon-Fri 10:00-13:00 and 15:00-16:00)

● Complete Kit List

The equipment list will differ depending on whether you use logistics support or not. With logistics support, you can afford to bring more things without strict weight limits. The following list is designed for those who will use this service.

⛺ Sleeping Gear

☐ Tent (but it's possible to do without)
☐ Sleeping bag (3 seasons, 0/+5 °C)
☐ Inflatable sleeping pad and repair kit
☐ Inflatable pillow

⛺ Rope Descent Equipment

☐ Helmet
☐ Harness
☐ Carabiners and descenders
☐ Slings and cords

⛺ Cooking Gear

☐ Camping stove and gas cartridge
☐ Lighter
☐ Pot and lid
☐ Plate (metal or washable plastic)
☐ Cup (metal or washable plastic)
☐ Fork, spoon, and knife
☐ Trash bags (separate aluminum, plastic, and paper)
☐ Salt, oil, sugar, etc.

● Rope Descents (Rappels)

To complete the Selvaggio Blu without a guide, and without cheating, it is necessary to descend along some rock walls with the help of rope and harness. The original Selvaggio Blu route includes eight rope descents, four on the second-to-last day and four on the last day.

All anchors were replaced in 2023 with new resin-bonded anchor groups, in 316L marine-grade stainless steel. Many of the anchors have also been doubled to avoid bottlenecks.

Some of the rope descents can be avoided if you know the secret shepherd passages or the shortcuts that bypass them. In the downloadable GPX track, you will also find references to these alternatives.

Day 4: From S'Arcu 'e su Tasaru to Bacu Padente

Descent Length Description & Pro Tips
#1 20 meters Found at the bottom of the long descent on the Su Pentrosu rockfield.
PRO TIP: People often make a mistake here, taking the new 45-meter variant. Remember that after passing through the hole in the rock and downclimbing the small corner, you must immediately turn right, continuing under the wall. If you go straight from the corner, you'll reach the 45-meter descent.
#2 20 meters Found at the base of the Grotta Cinque Stelle (Five Star Cave). Very easy to find.
PRO TIP: If this one is occupied by other groups, it's possible to find another anchor positioned about 50 meters further south.
#3 25 meters A rope on juniper, on top of the spur overlooking the Grotta del Fico (Fig Cave).
PRO TIP: This descent can be avoided by climbing the spur and finding the old shepherd passage on an old Iscala 'e Fustes (wooden ladder). This alternative is unprotected, must be equipped, and is not recommended for inexperienced trekkers.
#4 20 meters Located on the left edge of the Arco de su Feilau. Recently bolted with two separate rings.
PRO TIP: This descent can also be avoided by traversing the narrow ledge below and descending an old log leaning against the rock.

Day 5: From Bacu Padente to Sisine

Descent Length Description & Pro Tips
#5 25 meters Immediately after the diaclase known as Sa Nurca 'e Piddi. Rope on juniper. The rope is divided into two sections, with two quick links to allow two groups to descend simultaneously.
#6 45 meters Immediately after the previous one. This is the longest descent of the Selvaggio Blu. Two anchor groups have been installed to again allow simultaneous descent of two groups.
PRO TIP: Midway down the wall there is an intermediate anchor, which allows you to use a single 60-meter rope by splitting the descent.
#7 34 meters Right after the Plumare rockslide and the Plumare Via Ferrata. The main anchor is preceded by a fixed rope. You can attempt this descent with a 60-meter half dynamic rope, but know that at the last meter the rope will run out and you'll have to downclimb or jump. Organize yourselves so you don't lose the rope.
PRO TIP: When retrieving the rope, it often gets stuck in a small crack 15 meters up. To avoid this, give it a sharp tug when it's about to exit the ring.
PRO TIP: 10 meters above this anchor there is a second anchor equipped with rope on holm oak (40 meters). Do not follow the fixed rope beyond the anchor because it leads nowhere.
#8 20 meters Last descent with a view of Sisine beach, preceded by a fixed rope.
PRO TIP: There is another anchor (20 meters). To reach it, you must stop 30 meters before the official anchor, just before overlooking the beach, descend and find a narrow passage created between the bushes.

● Clothing

We know well what the usual mistake is: bringing too many things. Know that you will smell, so make peace with this idea and take as little as possible:

  • The shirt you're wearing on the first day, and at most two changes
  • The pants you're wearing and at most one change
  • A light fleece for the evening if in spring
  • A lightweight down jacket
  • A rain jacket
  • Socks and underwear, and that's it

⚠ Avoid Useless Accessories

Avoid useless accessories that fill the backpack and create confusion:

  • NO gloves
  • NO beanies
  • NO pajamas
  • NO cloth towels
  • NO bulky jackets

Choose old clothes, because the junipers of the Supramonte enjoy tearing new clothes.

Jacket

The best combo is a lightweight and very compact down jacket + a 2.5-layer rain jacket that is also very light and compact.

The only downside of down is that if it gets wet, it loses its thermal insulation property, and the feathers can rot. For this reason, it should always be accompanied by a rain jacket.

Shoes

Regarding footwear, here it's better to have something really good. The minimum is approach shoes, models like:

  • La Sportiva TX4
  • Scarpa Mescalito
  • Salewa Alp Trainer
  • Dolomite Crodarossa

Or higher and more robust shoes, but know that it gets hot...

● Food

Here we need to make a separation between those who need coffee and pasta, and those who can do without. Giving up caffeine and hot foods simplifies everything. You can abandon the stove, pot, dish soap, and water for cooking and cleaning.

In any case, avoiding food in oil is recommended, as once opened, the oil will spread everywhere, even anticipating your moves.

🍴 Diet WITHOUT a Stove

Meal Suggestions
Breakfast A pack of oats and UHT milk, enriched with fruit and nuts, and plenty of water to drink. Or simply cookies and water.
Lunch Bread (the spianata from Ozieri is the best), aged cheese, dried meat (sausage, ham...), nuts, fruit and vegetables.
Dinner To spend an evening with friends around a small fire, you can buy pieces of meat to roast with an improvised spit (juniper twig). On the same fire, you can heat canned food like lentils or cook potatoes and onions. And then, like at lunch: bread, cheese, fruit and vegetables (oranges with fennel are so good!).

🍴 Diet WITH a Stove

For those who need morning coffee or other hot drinks, or simply prefer cooking pasta or pre-cooked foods, the choices expand immensely:

Meal Suggestions
Breakfast Coffee or tea, accompanied by cookies, or bread and jam.
Lunch Same as the no-stove list above.
Dinner A universe of possibilities: pre-cooked foods from many brands, rice, pasta, boiled vegetables, pre-cooked legumes and cereals.

● Safety Tips

⚠ Essential Safety Advice

1. Stay on the Path

Use a reliable GPX track to follow the designated route. If you happen to get lost, go back to the last point where you were certain you were on the track. Don't invent shortcuts, because you might end up literally in a thorn bush. Don't pay too much attention to cairns (stone stacks) - they are everywhere, even on wrong paths.

2. Check the Weather Forecast

The weather can change rapidly; always check the forecast before leaving and while on the route.

3. Be Careful with Limestone

When limestone is dry, it has good grip, but when wet it becomes slippery like a bar of soap. Avoid letting a layer of mud form under your shoes and don't jump on stones if wet.

4. Inform Someone

Let a friend or family member know your planned route and return date.

5. Prepare for Emergencies

Bring with you:

  • A fully charged phone
  • Spare batteries for your headlamp
  • A first aid kit

✉ Official Contacts

For questions about booking, permits, or official trail information, contact the Municipality of Baunei's dedicated Selvaggio Blu office:

Email: selvaggioblu@turismobaunei.eu
Phone: +39 349 546 2583 (Mon-Fri 10:00-13:00 & 15:00-16:00)

● External Resources

🌐 Useful Links

🚨 Emergency Contacts

  • European Emergency: 112
  • Mountain Rescue (CNSAS): 118 or 800-111-118
  • Coast Guard: 1530
  • GPS Coordinates: Always note your position when calling for help
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