Etna & Alcantara Gorges Tour

Exploring the stunning natural wonders of Sicily’s Etna and Alcantara Gorges is a must-do for any adventurous traveler. This full-day tour offers an in-depth experience, from scaling the slopes of Mount Etna to immersing oneself in the serene beauty of the Alcantara Gorges. With knowledgeable guides, authentic Sicilian cuisine, and ample opportunities to hike and swim, it’s a well-rounded excursion that promises to leave a lasting impression. But what exactly can one expect from this captivating tour?

Key Points

• A full-day excursion priced at $97.93 per person, offering a guided tour of Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges with live guides in Italian and English.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at strategic locations, ensuring a seamless start and end to the tour.
• Exploration of Mount Etna, including a guided tour, photo stops at the Sartorius Mountains, and hiking to the Grotta delle Nevi (Thieves Cave).
• A two-hour lunch break at a local restaurant, featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine and an opportunity to savor local specialties.
• Free time to explore the 200-foot-deep Alcantara Gorges, with scenic views, opportunities for swimming, and the chance to admire the striking basalt rock formations and natural pools.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Etna & Alcantara Gorges Tour is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on an adventure through the stunning natural landscapes of Sicily.

A full-day excursion exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Sicily through the Etna & Alcantara Gorges.

Priced from $97.93 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and offers live guides in Italian and English, plus audio guides in German, French, Spanish, and English.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup and drop-off are included from strategic locations.

The itinerary highlights include a van ride to Mount Etna, a guided hike, exploring the Alcantara Gorges, and enjoying a local lunch.

Equipment like helmets and hiking poles are provided.

Pickup Locations

Where are the pickup locations for the Etna & Alcantara Gorges Tour?

The tour offers 7 convenient pickup locations: Giarre-Riposto, Via Francesco Messina, Taormina, and Recanati Bus Terminal.

Direct pickup is included from these points, though strategic meeting spots are available if direct pickup isn’t possible.

The tour also provides 7 drop-off locations at the end of the day, returning guests to the same places they were picked up.

With multiple pickup and drop-off options, the tour ensures a seamless start and end to a memorable day exploring Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges.

Mount Etna Exploration

After pickup, the tour takes guests on a 1-hour van ride to Mount Etna, the iconic and active volcano that dominates the landscape.

At the Sartorius Mountains, travelers enjoy a guided tour and photo stops. They then hike to the Grotta delle Nevi, exploring the "Thieves Cave" with helmets and flashlights provided.

Throughout the Mount Etna portion, travelers marvel at the volcanic terrain and learn about the region’s geological history from their knowledgeable guide.

This active segment sets the stage for the relaxing visit to the Alcantara Gorges later in the tour.

Monti Sartorius Guided Tour

One of the highlights of the Etna & Alcantara Gorges Tour is the guided tour and photo stop at the Monti Sartorius. Travelers will spend an hour exploring the volcanic craters and marveling at the unique geological formations. The tour guide will provide insight into the area’s history and natural features. Guests can capture stunning panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape. The tour is an excellent opportunity to witness the power and beauty of Mount Etna up close.

| Witness | Explore | Capture |

| — | — | — |

| The volcanic craters | Unique geological formations | Panoramic shots |

| The power of Mount Etna | The area’s history and natural features | The stunning landscape |

| The guide’s expertise | The guided tour experience | Memories to last a lifetime |

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Grotta Delle Nevi Hiking

As part of the Etna & Alcantara Gorges Tour, visitors embark on a thrilling 1-hour hike to the Grotta delle Nevi, or "Cave of Snows".

The guided trek leads them through the stunning volcanic landscape, where they’ll:

• Explore the fascinating ice cave, equipped with helmets and flashlights provided by the tour.

• Admire the unique geological formations and remnants of ancient glaciers inside the cave.

• Enjoy the scenic vistas and tranquility of the surrounding area during the hike.

The Grotta delle Nevi experience offers a glimpse into the remarkable natural wonders of Mount Etna, adding an exciting and educational element to the broader tour.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Following the hike to the Grotta delle Nevi, the tour takes a well-deserved break for a 2-hour lunch at a local restaurant.

Travelers enjoy a meal featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine, showcasing the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The lunch provides an opportunity to savor local specialties and take in the culinary traditions of Mount Etna.

During this time, guests can relax, refuel, and engage with the guide to learn more about the area’s culture and history.

This lunch stop is an integral part of the overall tour experience, allowing participants to fully appreciate the local flavors and hospitality.

Alcantara Gorges Visit

After the leisurely lunch, the tour heads to the breathtaking Alcantara Gorges.

Visitors can expect:

• Free time to explore the dramatic, 200-foot-deep gorges carved by the Alcantara River, offering scenic views and opportunities for swimming.

• Admiring the striking basalt rock formations and natural pools that have been shaped by the river over centuries.

• Relaxing by the cool, crystal-clear waters and soaking in the serene, natural atmosphere of this picturesque destination.

The Alcantara Gorges visit provides a chance to unwind and appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Sicily’s landscape.

Tour Features and What to Bring

The tour provides several noteworthy features that enhance the overall experience.

Guests can enjoy a guided hike to the Sartorius Mountains craters, where they’ll don helmets and flashlights to explore the Thieves Cave.

Venture into the Sartorius Mountains craters and explore the captivating Thieves Cave, equipped with helmets and flashlights.

Lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of authentic regional cuisine.

At the Alcantara Gorges, visitors can admire the scenic views and even take a refreshing swim.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as hiking poles and a free hat.

To ensure a comfortable and safe day, guests should wear suitable footwear, bring sun protection, and leave alcohol at home.

The Sum Up

The Etna & Alcantara Gorges Tour offers an unforgettable full-day adventure exploring Sicily’s natural wonders. Visitors can discover the geological marvels of Mount Etna, savor authentic Sicilian cuisine, and marvel at the stunning Alcantara Gorges. This well-rounded excursion provides an excellent opportunity to take in the region’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: