Sicily: Etna and Alcantara Gorges Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Etna Northern Slope Guided Tour with Alcantara Gorges Visit

This guided tour explores the northern slope of Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges, ideal for nature lovers and easy hiking enthusiasts.

Highlights

• Discover unique Etna landscapes on a guided off-road and trekking tour
• Off-road visit to the 2002 eruption lava front
• Trek along the Sartorius Craters and explore a lava flow cave
• Lunch at a local Etnean restaurant
• Visit the Alcantara Gorges lava canyon with swimming opportunities

Description

Begin with pickup from selected locations such as Taormina, Giardini Naxos, Catania, or Linguaglossa. Travel by SUV or minivan (up to 8 passengers) to the off-road route reaching the 2002 eruption lava front, site of the largest recent eruption that affected the Piano Provenzana ski area and Ragabo Pine Forest.

Drive through the Ragabo Forest along Mareneve road to the trek starting point near Rifugio Citelli. This easy 3 km hike ascends from 1665 m to 1775 m, suitable for all levels.

Walk through Etna’s birch forests and the Sartorius Craters, also called 'button' side craters, on the northeastern slope. Reach several viewpoints offering views of Calabria and the Aeolian Islands.

After trekking, explore the Grotta dei Ladroni lava cave, equipped with a helmet and flashlight provided. This lava tunnel, partially excavated in 1776, was historically used to store snow for summer resale.

Enjoy lunch at a local Etnean restaurant including a first course, water, and coffee.

Continue through Castiglione di Sicilia, recognized for its medieval features and renowned wineries. Then visit the Alcantara Gorges, a natural lava canyon carved by the Alcantara River. Entry to the park is included.

Descend into the gorges via the municipal entrance. You can relax, walk, or swim in the cool river before returning to the meeting point, completing the tour.

The itinerary may change depending on weather or safety considerations.

Includes

• Transfer from and to the arranged meeting point
• Local expert guide throughout the tour
• Lunch: first course, drink, and coffee
• Entrance ticket to the Alcantara Gorges Botanical Park (municipal entrance)
• Helmet and flashlight for cave exploration
• Bottled water

Important Information

• You may receive a message the day before the tour to confirm or update meeting times; please check for emails or messages from GetYourGuide.
• No open shoes are allowed during the Etna hike.
• Wear weather-appropriate clothing; contact us for recommendations.
• Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses in summer.
• The tour is suitable for young babies if carried in a baby carrier or backpack.
• Inform us in advance of any food allergies or intolerances and notify the waiter when ordering.
• Vehicles are smaller minibuses or SUVs, not large buses; do not board large buses near your meeting point.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Book in advance to secure your spot. Wear sturdy closed shoes for hiking and bring swimwear if you plan to enter the Alcantara River. The best time to visit is from spring to early autumn for favorable weather and river swims.