Highlights
- Hike to the summit and admire Europe's highest active volcano
- Admire breathtaking views from the cable car
- Explore moon-like volcanic landscapes
- Hike with expert, trained volcanic guides
- Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience
Description
Reaching the summit craters of Mount Etna is one of the most sought-after experiences for hikers and nature lovers. Join a certified volcanological guide and discover the power and beauty of Europe’s highest active volcano, walking among lava flows, volcanic sand, lava tunnels, and breathtaking landscapes with views over the Valle del Bove.
Options with trekking up to 3,000 m (cable car and trekking):
The tour starts from Rifugio Sapienza (Etna South, about 1,900 m). The first part of the ascent is by cable car up to approximately 2,500 m. From there, the trek continues on foot across lava flows from some of the most significant eruptions of recent decades, passing several volcanic points of interest, until reaching the Barbagallo Craters at about 3,000 m. From this point, you can admire the summit area of Mount Etna and observe volcanic activity in complete safety. The descent follows volcanic ash slopes to a viewpoint over the Valle del Bove, before returning by cable car. (This option is less challenging and recommended for those looking for a moderate trekking experience).
Options with trekking to the summit 3,400 m (cable car, 4x4 and trekking):
For the full summit experience, the tour starts also from Rifugio Sapienza (Etna South, about 1,900 m). The first part of the ascent is by cable car up to approximately 2,500 m. After the cable car, off-road 4x4 vehicles take you to 2,850 m, where the trek toward the central craters begins. After about two hours of hiking across recent lava flows and volcanic sand, the maximum altitude of approximately 3,400 m is reached (depending on weather and volcanic activity). The walk continues along the rim between La Voragine and Bocca Nuova, then toward the Southeast Crater, with views over Sicily’s Ionian coast. The descent follows sandy slopes down to about 2,900 m, before returning by cable car. (This option is more physically demanding).
For both options, a pickup service from your accommodation is available.
Experience the incredible thrill of standing on top of the world, surrounded by a raw and extraordinary volcanic landscape beneath an endless sky.
Important Information: On the day before the excursion, our guide will provide you with all the necessary information and practical details for the trekking experience.
If you have selected our pick-up service, be aware that our driver will contact you through WhatsApp the day before your experience, to confirm all pickup details.
In the case of a last-minute reservation, please wait for the driver to contact you via message by 6:45 AM on the same day of the tour you booked to confirm all pickup details.
Safety Note: In the event that reaching higher altitudes is not possible due to adverse weather conditions or volcanic activity, the tour will continue along an alternative route through unspoiled nature, lava valleys and much more.
Includes
Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Volcanic guide
Hike up Mount Etna
Hiking equipment (based on availability)
Helmet (mandatory)
Insurance
Excludes
3,000 m trek option: round-trip cable car ticket to be paid on site (€54 adults/€31 children up to 10 years old)
3,400 m summit trek option: round-trip cable car and 4x4 vehicle ticket to be paid on site (€82 adults/€51 children up to 10 years old)
Food and drinks
Tips
Trekking shoes can be rented at the meeting point for €6
Important Information
- This tour is prohibited for asthmatics and those who have heart problems
- This tour can be canceled in case of adverse weather conditions
- The feasibility of the excursion depends on weather conditions and volcanic activity. If conditions are not favorable, the guide may decide to follow an alternative route at the highest altitude that can be reached safely and in compliance with local regulations, while still ensuring a valuable and memorable experience on the volcano
- For seismic reasons, sometimes the tour needs to be changed
- The organizer reserves the right to change the means of transportation used to reach the planned altitude, based on conditions evaluated at their sole discretion
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
