The highest altitude hike you can reach!
Our excursion to the summit craters is normally organized on the northern side of the volcano, one of the most scenically beautiful places on Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will meet the guide at 1800 meters (see meeting place below) and after a short briefing we will reach an altitude of 2900 with the use of special 4x4 vehicles. The trek will start here and will take us to the edge of the summit craters in approximately 1.30/2 hours. Here, at 3260 meters above sea level, you will admire the surreal panorama inside the summit craters. Bocca Nuova rim is characterized by the colorful colors of the sulfur concretions and other minerals, by the fumaroles and if possible by the eruptive activity. Unique landscapes that make this experience on the most active and largest volcano in Europe special. You will also find yourself on the highest point of the island and will therefore be able to enjoy a breathtaking view over a good part of Sicily. The Ionian Sea, Taormina and then beyond the mountains surrounding Etna, the Nebrodi and the Madonie, the archipelago of Aeolian Islands. The descent will take place within the sandy gullies or the Valle del Bove, places characterized by extraordinary lunar landscapes, up to the car park where we will say goodbye.
IMPORTANT NOTES: This excursion allows you to reach the maximum authorized altitude on the Etna volcano . For safety reasons, the excursion may be subject to changes based on weather conditions or civil protection provisions at the sole discretion of the organization and/or the guide. Refunds are NOT provided in this case. Due to the high altitude and physical effort required, the excursion is absolutely NOT permitted to people with heart problems or any other physical condition not suitable for hiking. For people over 50 years of age, a preventive cardiology visit is recommended.
Included / Excluded
To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.
- Official authorized Etna Guide (Mandatory)
- Helmet (Mandatory)
- Neck warmer ETNA - GIFT only with us!!!
- A voucher for a free etnean food tasting
- Maximum 10 people per group
- Rent shoes - Jackets - Hiking poles
- Packed lunch
- Ticket for bus 4x4 (60€) from Etna North
Tour Map
Our meeting point for the excursion is in Piano Provenzana - ETNA NORD turistic area (1800 mt a.s.l) at rent-souvenir house LA CAPANNETTA, close the chair lift.
Itinerary
Our excursion to the summit craters is designed to give you the best visit experience considering less exposure to volcanic risk conditions. Our itinerary takes place on the northern side of Etna and is led by expert guides authorized by the Italian government and covered by insurance policies, equipped by radio and GPS devices
There are 2 daily departures. The times refer to the time of the meeting where you need to show up. We usually prefer the 9.30 departure, compared to other organizations that leave at 8, to allow our guests to arrive even from distant areas. However, the actual time depends on the availability of the 4×4 carriers. IMPORTANT: You will be sent a voicemail to confirm the time. At the meeting point we will have a briefing to meet your volcanological guide, to check the equipment and for the last details before departure. We recommend maximum punctuality because the carriers must leave at the scheduled times. Otherwise you could miss the excursion.
The first part of the ascent takes place with special 4×4 vehicles up to an altitude of approximately 2900 metres. The cost of this service is NOT included in the participation fee. Ticket for bus 4×4 (60€) from Etna North.
After leaving the 4×4 bus, the guide will take you from 2900 m to the edge of the summit craters to enjoy the spectacular scenery offered by this majestic volcano. You will be in direct contact with the fumaroles and sounds of the main crater. From this altitude the panorama will allow you to observe the Sicilian island from its highest point.Â
PLEASE NOTE: the ascent to the craters may not be possible in some periods of the year or on some days. In this case the maximum possible altitude communicated by the guide on site will be reached. Â
After visiting the summit craters we will descend to a safe area and eat a packed lunch at approximately 3000 meters above sea level!
The descent will take place by walking downhill to return to 1800 meters above sea level (parking). It will be an adrenaline-filled experience inside the volcanic sand gullies. The return is expected between approximately 2 and 3 pm. Alternatively, those who are tired and wish to get off by 4×4 bus can request it from the guide and, if possible, transport will be organised.
ONLY WITH US
ETNA BANDANA as a Gift!
Only with Etna Summit Craters will you receive a beautiful and very useful gift at the meeting point. A multi-purpose "bandana" neck warmer and hair band that can be used to mitigate the breathing of volcanic gases during our excursions. The value of this bandana is €15 but by booking online on this website it is free for each participant!
*The image is illustrative only and the style of the bandana may be different
ToTo Know Before the visit
Our suggestions and terms to enjoy Etna
Etna is a big volcano, but also a very high mountain. Visitors need to know some important information before attempting the ascent to the summit craters
EVERY DAY
Would you like a private tour or another time start? Contact us!
