Manna Experience

Manna is the naturally dried sap from ash trees (Fraxinus angustifolia and Fraxinus ornus). When producers make precise incisions in the bark, the tree “bleeds” a sweet sap that crystallizes in the Sicilian sun. It’s completely natural and has been harvested here for centuries.

Yes! Mario speaks English. He is not only a manna producer but also a nature guide with many years of experience in guiding English-speaking guests. Meet our guides

You’ll still have a complete experience! Above all, the tour is an encounter with the keeper of an endangered ancestral tradition. Mario won’t only share some of the secrets of the manna harvest technique with you, he will also help you connect more deeply with nature through his beloved ash trees. The harvest takes place in summer, but the trees require care and attention throughout the year, so you may have the opportunity to participate in planting, grafting, pruning or soil improvement activities.

Yes! Mario offers his artisan manna for purchase at the end of the experience (not included in tour price).

The meeting place is located near Castelbuono and may vary as Mario produces manna on several lands in the area. You will receive a map with clear directions when you book.

Transport is not included in our services, but you may be able to ride in the producer’s car to reach the experience place (please check with us before booking). A small additional fee may apply.

The Manna Experience is not a hike, but it may involve some short walking, depending on the location where the producer will welcome you. Please contact us if you want to participate with very young children or if you have limited mobility, so we can adapt the tour to your needs.

We constantly monitor the weather to ensure that guests can enjoy the experience under the right conditions. Of course, this doesn’t mean the tour will only run with perfect sunshine, but in case of consistent rain or strong winds, Madonie Explorers will cancel the experience. Participants can rebook for another date or request a refund.

Solo travelers are welcome! Our minimum booking is two adults (€50 total), but you can book as a solo traveler at the 2-person rate, or we may be able to pair you with another solo traveler – please contact us to check availability. Private tours are available from one participant.

You can book online through this website until 6 p.m. the day before the experience. We encourage you to book or contact us as soon as possible to ensure we are available during your visit.

We fully refund bookings cancelled at least 48 hours before the excursion. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance are non-refundable. This policy is necessary for planning purposes and also ensures fair working conditions for our guides, who are independent professionals.

We suggest staying in Castelbuono, Cefalù, or the nearby area the night before, so you don’t have to drive far to reach the meeting place. Feel free to contact us for any additional information regarding accommodation.