Conquering the volcano by walking!
For those who are very fit and want to climb to the summit areas of the volcano without using cable cars or 4x4 vehicles, it is possible to organize a special experience with a dedicated volcanology guide. There are different possible itineraries, from the southern, northern or western side of Etna, depending on the best conditions for the climb in the chosen period. Starting from an altitude of about 1900 meters, it is possible to reach two different objectives depending on your preparation. The standard excursion includes a 1000 meter difference in altitude in 5/6 hours total between ascent and descent. For the more experienced and trained, after checking safety conditions, it will be possible to book the ascent to the summit (1500 meters and 8/9 hours of total excursion). From these altitudes you will admire the surreal panorama inside the summit craters. The edge of the Bocca Nuova is characterized by the multicolored 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. In addition, you will find yourself on the highest point of the island and can therefore enjoy a breathtaking view of a large part of Sicily: the Ionian Sea, Taormina and then beyond the mountains surrounding Etna, the Nebrodi and Madonie, the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands. IMPORTANT : In the event of access restrictions due to volcanic risk, the maximum authorized altitude will be reached on the chosen day .
NOTE!: This is an experience EXCLUSIVELY for excellent hikers/mountaineers, who have recently done excursions with similar difficulty. If you are not trained, we recommend the 4x4 and trekking tour. The excursion may be subject to changes based on weather conditions or civil protection forecasts at the sole discretion of the organization and/or guide.
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 guide
- Top Hiker Certificate
- Rent shoes - Jackets - Hiking poles
- Packed lunch
Tour Map
For this excursion the meeting point is defined based on the itinerary decided by the guide and agreed with the clients. The place and time of the meeting point are then communicated after booking.
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
You will be notified of the location of the meeting point after agreeing the itinerary with our guides. At the meeting point we will have a briefing to meet your volcanological guide, to check the equipment and for the last details before leaving. We recommend maximum punctuality because transport carriers must leave at the scheduled times. Otherwise you may miss the excursion.
This excursion includes climbing to the summit areas from paths to be covered exclusively on foot. No means of transport such as cable cars or 4×4 vehicles will be used. The guide will decide the difficulty of the route based on your abilities and needs. The standard excursion includes a 1000 meter difference in altitude in 5/6 hours total between ascent and descent. For the more experienced and trained, after checking safety conditions, it will be possible to book the ascent to the summit (1500 meters and 8/9 hours of total excursion).
The guide will take you 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.
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.
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
