Best time to walk the Cammino Materano (Bari → Matera)

The Cammino Materano (Via Peuceta) crosses open olive country and the limestone Murge plateau, with long, exposed stretches and little shade. For most walkers, starting in late March to May, or late September to early November gives the best conditions on the Cammino Materano: comfortable temperatures, longer daylight, and livelier towns without the extremes of summer or the unsettled feel of mid‑winter.

Here’s how the year plays out on this route.

Spring (late March–May) — green, bright, and comfortable

• Why it’s good: Mild days, cool mornings, and plenty of light for steady stages. Wildflowers and fresh fields make the Murge especially pleasant.
• What to expect: A mix of sun and passing showers; breezy on the plateau at times. Early starts can feel crisp.
• Tips: Carry a light rain shell and a warm layer. After rain, farm tracks can be slick—allow a little extra time.

Autumn (late September–early November) — settled and golden

• Why it’s good: Summer heat has eased but days are still generous. Harvest season brings busy weekends and a bit of local buzz.
• What to expect: Mostly sunny spells with occasional showers or a brief stormy burst. Evenings get cooler by early November.
• Tips: Book ahead around festivals and harvest weekends; watch for slippery stones after rain.

Summer (June–August) — hot and exposed

• Why it’s tough: Long shadeless stretches turn the walk into heat management, especially inland toward Matera.
• If you go anyway: Start at dawn, plan a long midday pause, and carry more water than you think you’ll need. Strong sun protection is essential; check shop hours around siesta.

Winter (December–February) — workable but changeable

• Character: Frequent swings between bright, calm days and showery, blustery spells; the odd cold snap or brief sleet on the plateau.
• Considerations: Short daylight, muddy tracks, and occasional limited opening hours in smaller towns. Fine for flexible walkers with solid rain gear.

Shoulder edges

• Early March: Can flip between lovely and raw; feasible if you’re flexible.
• Mid–late November: Often pleasant but wetter and darker—aim earlier if you can.

In short, plan to set out in spring or autumn for easier pacing, simpler logistics, and more enjoyable walking on the Via Peuceta.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the trail.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Bari to Matera, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.