Mount Etna: Volcano Craters Hiking Tour

Mount Etna’s volcano craters are a captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This guided hiking tour provides an opportunity to explore the mountain’s dramatic landscape, from steaming lava flows to impressive fumaroles. Trekkers can ascend to the Southeast Crater, taking in breathtaking panoramic views that showcase the power and beauty of this active volcano. With essential equipment and safety measures in place, the tour offers a thrilling adventure for those seeking to experience the wonder of Etna firsthand. But there’s more to discover…

Key Points

• This 5-hour volcano tour offers guided treks to the Barbagallo Crater, with panoramic views of the Southeast Crater and 2002 craters at an elevation of 3,000 meters.
• The tour is available in Italian, French, and English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Included in the package are trekking poles, helmets, accident insurance, and the Etna entry fee, while additional on-site fees apply for volcanological guide service, cable car tickets, and snowshoe rental.
• Participants must be at least 11 years old and free from mobility, heart, or respiratory issues, as well as recent surgeries or low fitness levels.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 136 reviews, with positive feedback regarding the guide’s engagement, professionalism, and the adventurous nature of the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Mount Etna Volcano Craters Hiking Tour is priced from $27.31 per person and lasts approximately 5 hours.

It’s offered in Italian, French, and English. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also features a "reserve now, pay later" option, allowing customers to secure their spot without upfront payment.

Key highlights include walking past steaming lava flows, discovering fumaroles, exploring a lunar landscape, and climbing to 3,000 meters for panoramic views of the volcano’s Southeast Crater and 2002 craters.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a 20-minute transfer to the Barbagallo Crater, where the guided portion of the experience commences.

The tour starts with a 20-minute transfer to the Barbagallo Crater, where the guided portion of the experience begins.

Over the next 2.33 hours, hikers will:

1. Walk past steaming lava flows and volcanic rocks.

2. Discover fumaroles emitting hot gases.

3. Explore a lunar landscape and recent eruption effects.

4. Climb to 3,000 meters for panoramic views of the Southeast Crater and 2002 craters.

After the guided tour, there’s a 40-minute photo stop and a 30-minute break to explore the area further.

Equipment and Inclusions

The tour package includes trekking poles, helmets, and accident insurance, as well as the Etna entry fee, warm jackets, trekking shoes, and a backpack. However, there are additional fees to be paid on-site, such as the volcanological guide service (€30 per person), round-trip cable car tickets (€52 per person), and snowshoe rental (€15 per person for deep snow).

| What to Bring | |

| — | — |

| Windbreaker | Sunglasses |

| Change of clothes | Snacks and drinks |

| Hiking shoes | Sunscreen |

| Comfortable clothing | |

Proper footwear is mandatory for insurance coverage, and the tour is not suitable for certain individuals, including children under 11 and those with mobility, health, or fitness issues.

Safety and Restrictions

Proper safety precautions are paramount for this Mount Etna Hiking Tour. The tour isn’t suitable for:

1. Children under 11 years

2. People with mobility, heart, or respiratory issues

3. Those with epilepsy, recent surgeries, or low fitness levels

4. Participants below the minimum group size of 8 required for the trek to proceed.

Weather conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Proper footwear is mandatory for insurance coverage. Travelers must be prepared for the challenges of hiking an active volcano and follow the guide’s instructions closely to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 136 reviews, the Mount Etna Hiking Tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from travelers.

The Mount Etna Hiking Tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 136 reviews.

Guides were praised for their engagement and professionalism, while the tour itself was described as fascinating and adventurous.

Travelers emphasized the importance of wearing suitable clothing for the hike. Notable comments highlighted positive experiences with guide Vincenzo, who was kind and attentive.

The tour is recommended for those seeking a unique hiking experience on an active volcano.

Exploring the Barbagallo Crater

How does the tour explore the Barbagallo Crater?

After a 20-minute transfer, the 2.33-hour guided trek takes visitors to the Barbagallo Crater.

Explorers will:

1. Walk past steaming lava flows and volcanic rocks, observing the dynamic geology.

2. Discover fumaroles, openings in the Earth’s surface that emit steam and volcanic gases.

3. Climb to an elevation of 3,000 meters for panoramic views over the lunar landscape.

4. Witness the effects of recent eruptions, gaining insights into the volcano’s powerful forces.

This immersive experience allows travelers to explore the heart of Mount Etna’s geological wonders.

Discovering Fumaroles and Volcanic Landscapes

As the hiking tour progresses, visitors are treated to a captivating display of Mount Etna’s volcanic wonders.

The group traverses past steaming lava flows and volcanic rocks, marveling at the fumaroles – vents emitting hot gases. The landscape transforms into a lunar-like scene, showcasing the effects of recent eruptions.

Reaching an elevation of 3,000 meters, the hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the volcano’s craters, including the Southeast Crater and the 2002 craters.

This unique opportunity to explore an active volcano’s inner workings leaves a lasting impression on all who embark on this unforgettable adventure.

Reaching the Summit for Panoramic Views

After traversing the rugged terrain, the hikers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views from the summit.

At an elevation of 3,000 meters, they can:

1. Gaze upon the volcanic landscape, dotted with craters and steaming fumaroles.

2. Spot the shimmering Mediterranean Sea in the distance.

3. Admire the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains.

4. Witness the power of Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

This vantage point offers a unique perspective on the dynamic, ever-changing nature of this geological wonder.

Common Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Mount Etna?

The best time to visit Mount Etna is typically during the spring and fall when the weather’s mild. Summers can be hot, while winters may bring snow that can limit access to the volcano’s higher elevations.

Can I Extend the Tour to Explore More of the Volcano?

You can extend the tour to explore more of the volcano, but it’ll cost extra. The tour operator offers additional options like longer hikes, cable car rides, and guided visits to different craters for a higher price.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Licenses to Hike on Mount Etna?

No, you don’t need any special permits or licenses to hike on Mount Etna. The tour operator handles all necessary permissions and requirements, so you can focus on enjoying the volcanic adventure.

Are There Any Nearby Attractions I Can Visit Before or After the Tour?

There are several nearby attractions visitors can explore before or after the Mount Etna Volcano Craters Hiking Tour, such as the historic town of Taormina, the Aeolian Islands, and various wineries in the Etna region. Travelers can easily incorporate these sights into their itinerary.

Can I Customize the Tour to Suit My Fitness Level and Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your fitness level and interests. The operator offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust the pace and activities based on your needs and preferences for a more personalized experience.

The Sum Up

The Volcano Craters Hiking Tour on Mount Etna offers an exhilarating opportunity to explore volcanic landscapes up close. With a guided trek, essential equipment, and stunning views from the summit, this tour provides a fascinating outdoor experience for adventurous travelers. While restrictions apply, the tour’s reasonable price and positive customer feedback make it a compelling choice for those seeking an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most iconic natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: