Etna: the Path Among the Lavas. Trekking on Mount Etna at 3000 M

Trekking on Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano, is a thrilling adventure that promises breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the raw power of nature. From a scenic cable car ride to a guided trek through volcanic terrain, this six-hour excursion at an altitude of 3000 m offers a unique opportunity for moderately fit adventurers aged 12 and up. Under the guidance of licensed Volcanological Guides, you’ll discover the captivating world of lava fields and craters, leaving you with an unforgettable experience that will have you eager to uncover more.

Contents show

Key Points

A trekking excursion on Mount Etna, an active volcano, exploring lunar-like landscapes at elevations up to 3000 meters.
The tour includes a cable car ride to 2500 m and a guided trek to the Barbagallo crater.
Suitable for moderately fit adventurers aged 12 and up, with proper equipment and safety briefing provided.
The trek covers lava fields, eruptive fractures, and key sights like the Barbagallo crater and Valle del Bove.
Guides are licensed Volcanological Guides, and the tour may be altered or terminated due to weather or volcanic activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The trekking excursion on Mount Etna offers an opportunity to explore the lunar-like landscapes of this active volcano.

Discover the lunar-like landscapes of Mount Etna’s active volcano on a trekking excursion.

Priced from $54.61 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a cable car ride to 2500 m and an exhilarating trek up to 3000 m.

With a multilingual guide, you’ll discover secondary craters, eruptive fractures, and volcanic deserts.

The excursion is suitable for moderately fit adventurers aged 12 and up.

Hikers must bring the right gear and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and memorable experience.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, allowing flexibility.

Love being outdoors? Check out these other hiking spots we've covered in Catania

Itinerary and Route

The tour begins at the Etna shop souvenir and Visitor center, where a 15-minute safety briefing kicks things off. Next, guests hop on a cable car for a 20-minute ride up to 2500 m. The real adventure begins as they trek 1.5 hours on foot to the Barbagallo crater, taking in the lunar landscape, secondary craters, and eruptive fractures. After a 45-minute break at the viewpoint for photos and a guided tour, it’s time to head back – 1.5 hours on foot and 20 minutes by cable car to the starting point.

| — | — | — | — |

| Break | Return |

| — | — |

| 45 minutes at viewpoint | 20 minutes by cable car |

Trekking Experience

Though the path leads adventurers through lava fields and eruptive fractures, where they can touch hot lavas from recent eruptions, the guides are licensed Volcanological Guides, authorized and registered to ensure safety.

They’ll trek up to 3000 m, starting at a base of 1910 m. Along the way, they’ll see the Barbagallo crater from the 2002 eruption, the Southeast crater, and the Valle del Bove.

The moderate fitness required is worth it for the lunar landscape, secondary craters, and volcanic desert. With the proper gear and precautions, trekkers can safely explore the wonders of Mount Etna.

Safety and Requirements

Trekking on Mount Etna isn’t suitable for everyone. It requires a moderate fitness level to navigate the uneven terrain and reach the 3000 m altitude.

Children under 12, those with mobility issues, heart problems, respiratory conditions, or high blood pressure are advised against this trek. Similarly, individuals prone to altitude sickness or who’ve recently dived shouldn’t attempt it.

Proper equipment like a protective helmet and hiking poles are provided, but sturdy shoes are a must.

The tour operator reserves the right to alter or terminate the hike if weather or volcanic activity compromises safety. Minimum participation is required to run the excursion.

More Great Tours Nearby

Recommended Gear and Attire

When embarking on the trek up Mount Etna, it’s crucial to pack the proper gear and attire. Sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes are a must for the uneven terrain.

Sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes are a must for the uneven terrain when embarking on the trek up Mount Etna.

Wearing layers, including a warm jacket, is advised as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect against the elements.

Bring plenty of water and snacks to fuel your exploration. The trek requires moderate fitness, so packing hiking poles can provide extra stability and support.

Following the guide’s recommendations ensures you’re prepared to safely enjoy the stunning volcanic landscape.

There's plenty more to explore in Catania

Guide Expertise and Discretion

To ensure a safe and enriching experience, the excursion is led by licensed Volcanological Guides who are authorized and registered.

They’ve extensive knowledge of Mount Etna’s geology and can adapt the hike based on weather conditions or volcanic activity. The guides have the discretion to terminate the trek if they deem the safety of the group is compromised.

This flexibility allows them to provide an unforgettable adventure while prioritizing the wellbeing of participants.

With their expert guidance, trekkers can explore the lunar landscape, secondary craters, and eruptive fractures of this dynamic and awe-inspiring volcano.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking this excursion is straightforward, as it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives you flexibility in case your plans change.

The price starts from $54.61 per person, and availability can be checked for starting times. The tour’s duration is 6 hours, including a safety briefing, cable car ride, and 3 hours of trekking.

While the hike is suitable for moderately fit individuals, it’s not recommended for children under 12 or those with certain medical conditions.

The guided tour is available in French and Italian, ensuring an informative and safe experience.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers who’ve experienced the Trekking on Mount Etna excursion have been overwhelmingly positive in their feedback.

With an overall rating of 5/5 based on one review, the tour has been praised for its exceptional guide, Nino Scandura.

Reviewers have highlighted the tour’s highlights, including the lunar landscape, secondary craters, and eruptive fractures, as well as the opportunity to touch hot lavas from recent eruptions.

The guided tour at the viewpoint has also been noted as a standout feature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

The tour has an age limit of 12 years old or above. Children under 12 are not allowed to participate due to the strenuous nature of the hike and potential safety concerns at the high altitude.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the trek. The tour information states that only service animals are permitted, as the uneven terrain and safety requirements make it unsuitable for bringing pets along.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible as it requires trekking on uneven terrain up to an altitude of 3000 meters. Individuals with mobility impairments are specifically listed as unsuitable for this activity.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Get Sick?

If you get sick, you can cancel the tour for free up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. The tour has a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate unexpected health issues.

Can I Choose the Language of the Tour Guide?

The tour provides live guides in both French and Italian. So you can choose the language of the tour guide that best suits your preferences when booking the excursion.

The Sum Up

Trekking on Mount Etna is an unforgettable adventure that promises stunning vistas and a glimpse into the raw power of nature. The guided excursion takes you through a captivating volcanic landscape, including lava fields and craters, at an awe-inspiring altitude of 3000 m. With its scenic cable car ride and licensed Volcanological Guides, this six-hour trek is a must-do for moderately fit adventurers seeking an exhilarating and safe exploration of one of Italy’s natural wonders.