Enjoy the Lava Experience
Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and its eruptions are often visible from more or less close positions. The Etna Guides, after a careful assessment of the volcanic risk, accompany hikers to visit the lava fields to live an unforgettable, highly adrenaline-filled experience. Given the variability of factors for carrying out this excursion, first of all the presence of an active eruption and therefore the place where the lava field develops, we therefore propose from time to time the best hiking activity to offer a fun experience and with more appropriate risk mitigation. If these conditions do not exist, even in the presence of spectacular activities, we may reserve the right not to organize guided tours.
IMPORTANT NOTES: The excursion may undergo variations depending on weather conditions or civil protection provisions at the sole discretion of the organization and/or guide. Due to the high altitude and the physical effort required, this excursion is absolutely NOT permitted for people with heart conditions or any other physical condition unsuitable for hiking. For people over 50, a preventive cardiological examination 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. Also look at the equipment checklist
- Official authorized Etna Guide (Mandatory)
- Helmet (Mandatory)
- A voucher for a free etnean food tasting
- Rent shoes - Jackets - Hiking poles
- Packed lunch
- Any bus/cableway tickets
Tour Map
Our meeting point for the excursion is in Piano Provenzana - Ticket office for Special Bus 4x4 excursions
Itinerary
The excursion to visit the lava front varies based on the type of eruption. The activity will be offered exclusively in case of low risk conditions. For this reason, a standard itinerary is not presented, but the best itinerary for each event will be proposed.
On 31 Lug 26, a new eruptive fissure opened at 2027 meters above sea level, releasing a lava flow in the upper Valle del Bove, moderately fed. At the moment, evening guided activities are offered from a safe distance of about 800 meters, allowing a good view of the eruptive area and summit craters.Â
PROGRAM – Meeting point from Piano Provenzana at 8,00 Am (Morning) or 5:00 PM (Evening). Starting with a 4×4 bus ride up to 2800 meters. An intermediate hike to visit some side craters. Arrival at twilight at Piano delle Concazze where we will watch the eruption. 5 hours in total. The excursion is led by Volcanological Guides and departs with a minimum of 4 participants. Cost: €70 for the guide + €50 for 4×4 transport.Â
Difficulty: medium. Excursion for people in good health. Bring at least 1 liter of water and a packed lunch. Important: due to the altitude, temperatures are low, so dress appropriately.
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
