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Dances with Wolves
Join Fill Pill, rebellious comedian and science communicator, for three days in the wild heart of Abruzzo - between dawn stakeouts, wolf tracks, and stories of biodiversity worth protecting.
Highlights
- In search of wolves
In the silent mountains of Abruzzo, we’ll try to spot (or at least sense) wolves. It won’t be easy - and that’s exactly the point. This isn’t a zoo-style tour, but a lesson in respectful observation, patient listening, and understanding a complex ecosystem. - Nights in small villages and early-morning breakfasts
We’ll stay in San Sebastiano dei Marsi, at the gates of the National Park, in a small mountain hotel. Days will start early with silent dawn stakeouts, continue with guided forest hikes, and end with shared dinners, stories, and laughter under a starry sky. - A journey for those who want to understand, not just see
With expert guides, we’ll read the forest like an open book: tracks, scat, hunting remains - every detail tells a story. And with Fill Pill, we’ll reflect on our role in this delicate balance, blending scientific insights and sharp humor the way only he can.

TRIP PURPOSE
We’ve forgotten we are part of nature, not above it.
This journey is a gentle act of rebellion: a chance to return to the woods, to learn how to observe without invading, to recognize the signs left behind by wild animals, and to understand why protecting the Apennine wolf is both an urgent and symbolic challenge for coexistence.
We’ll talk about biodiversity, ecological balance, cultural fears, and living together - with the witty irony of Fill Pill and the expertise of a local nature guide.
This trip has been designed based on the following principles:
- Environmental and Social Education
- Sustainable Mobility
- Biodiversity
ACCOMODATION
During our journey, we will stay at Hotel Gemma, in San Sebastiano dei Marsi - a tiny village of just 150 inhabitants nestled in the upper Giovenco Valley, at the gates of the Abruzzo National Park. Located at 1,120 meters above sea level and surrounded by forests and silence, it's the perfect base for our excursions into the wild. The rooms, all doubles with private bathrooms, are simple, warm, and authentic. The in-house restaurant, La Taverna, carries on a culinary tradition passed down from mother to daughter, offering typical Abruzzese dishes prepared with seasonal, local ingredients. It’s a place that feels like home - where nature can be tasted on every plate.
IMPORTANT INFO
What to bring: It’s important to pack suitable clothing for cold temperatures, especially during early stakeouts. Waterproof hiking boots, warm socks, backpack, rain jacket, water bottle, binoculars, gloves and hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, hiking pants.
How to get there: We recommend arriving by train or bus to Avezzano or Pescasseroli, our meeting point. Once the group is confirmed, we can help organize carpooling where possible.
Note: The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, group needs, or in order to maximize wildlife observation opportunities.
What's included
- Food: Half-board stay (2 breakfasts, 2 dinners).
- Accommodation: 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in double rooms with private bathrooms.
- Tour & Activities: 1 meeting with a representative of the National Park, 3 guided excursions in the National Park led by Fill Pill and a certified nature guide.
- Other: Support from an ORMA coordinator throughout the entire trip.
- Insurance: Medical and baggage insurance.
What's not included
- Food: 2 lunch.
- Transportation: travel to and from Avezzano, bus or cars (€ 25) transportation from and to National Park.
- Other: Trip cancellation insurance.
- Anything not specified under "What's included".
Payment Terms
30% down payment at the time of booking and the remaining 70% due 30 days prior to departure.
If the booking is made within 30 days of departure, the full amount is due at checkout.
Bank transfers or credit cards can be used to make payments.
ITINERARY
Day 1 - The ancient forest
Arrival in Pescasseroli in the early afternoon and meeting with a National Park representative for an introduction to the area and its symbolic species. If weather allows, we’ll take a short hike in the Difesa di Pescasseroli, one of Europe’s most important old-growth forests. In the evening, we’ll head to San Sebastiano dei Marsi for dinner and a group presentation of the program with the guide and Fill Pill.
Day 2 - Tracks and signs of the wolf
Early breakfast and first observation attempt: we’ll silently position ourselves in an area with high chances of wolf activity. Afterwards, we’ll hike along wolf-frequented trails, learning to read the clues they leave behind. Picnic lunch (not included) or optional stop at a mountain hut. In the afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel to rest before dinner, followed by an evening of conversation — a mix of humor, science, and reflection on human-wildlife coexistence.
Day 3 - Deer, silence, and farewell
Final early breakfast and another wildlife stakeout. This time, alongside wolves, we’ll look for wild ungulates: deer, roe deer, wild boars. Afterwards, a short final hike in the area and picnic lunch. Group goodbyes and departure in the afternoon.

Filippo Piluso, aka Fill Pill, is an environmental communicator, stand-up comedian, and musician. He humorously describes himself as "seriously joking." He combines serious topics with a light, comedic tone, addressing various issues related to sustainability and nature.He holds a degree in Law with a specialization in International Environmental and Maritime Law, and a Master's in Sustainability and Energy Resource Management. Filippo has worked in ocean conservation for NGOs and international associations, managed renewable energy development projects in Africa, and served as a sustainability consultant for businesses. He is also the vice-president and co-founder of an advocacy group for environmental communicators.
Booking Info
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Ready to go? Just the usual doubts?
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We use a simple classification to inform you about the availability status of each trip:
"To Be Confirmed": the trip hasn't received any bookings yet but is active.
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What is the average age of participants? Are there age limits?

Participants are generally between 22 and 45 years old, with an average age of 30-35. There are no age limits: we accept minors (with legal guardian consent) and people over 45. However, consider the type of trip, as some activities may require good physical condition.
What are the exact arrival and departure times?

Our trips typically start around lunchtime or early afternoon, with departures in the same timeframe. However, times may vary depending on the destination. We remain flexible so everyone can plan accordingly. If you arrive late or need to leave early, just let us know in advance.
Is vegan/vegetarian food available? What about celiac disease?

Absolutely! Many of our coordinators and participants are vegetarian or vegan, so we always choose restaurants with suitable options. Our trips can also accommodate celiac disease, as long as we are informed in advance. The same applies to any allergies or intolerances.
When is the trip officially confirmed?

For long-haul or non-European trips, confirmation happens at least 1.5 months before departure. If the trip isn’t confirmed by then, it will be canceled. For shorter trips, confirmation happens 3-4 weeks before departure. You’ll receive an email once the trip is confirmed, along with a link to the Telegram group to coordinate logistics with other travelers.
Can I travel with the creator? What transport does the creator use, and from where?

Yes! If the transport type, departure station, and schedule are already set, they will be listed on the trip page. If not, we’ll share this information in the Telegram group once the trip is confirmed.
Why is the trip booked through Apical Booking?

ORMA Guides partners with Apical, a licensed tour operator, for travel logistics and bookings. ORMA manages the platform and content. No worries—our team will still handle your trip!