Description
DIFFICULTY: •••/5 | SHARED TOUR | €59 GUIDE + €60 4X4 BUS TRANSPORT
Our excursion to the summit craters is organized on the north side of the volcano, less touristy than the south side and one of the most scenic places on Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The main stages of the excursion
Meeting Point in Piano Provenzana – Etna North
At the meeting point, we'll have a briefing to meet your volcanologist guide, check your equipment, and finalize your departure details. We recommend maximum punctuality because transporters must depart on schedule. Otherwise, you may miss the excursion.
Transport with special 4×4 vehicles
From here, the first leg of the ascent to the summit begins in special 4x4 vehicles along a dirt road that will allow you to enjoy the unique volcanic landscapes of this side of the mountain. We'll reach an altitude of 2900 meters using special 4x4 vehicles. The cost of this service, offered by a transport company, is €60 and is NOT included in the participation fee.
Trekking ascent to the summit craters
After leaving the 4x4 vehicle, we'll begin the ascent on foot from 2900 meters to enjoy the spectacular scenery offered by this majestic volcano. In about 1,30 minutes, we'll reach one of the crater rims at approximately 3300 meters. You'll be close to the colors, smells, and sounds of the main crater. From this altitude, the view is surreal and extends across almost all of Sicily.
Descent with 4×4 vehicles or on foot
The descent will be in the same vehicles used for the ascent or on foot to return to an altitude of 1800 meters (parking lot). It will be an adrenaline-filled experience among volcanic sand channels, lava flows, extinct craters, and much more. Return is scheduled between approximately 13 and 14 PM. Depending on weather conditions and the group's fatigue, the guide may use the 4x4 vehicles again for the descent.
Coupons for tasting typical products
The offer also includes a coupon for a tasting of typical products and a glass of Etna wine at MontataGrande in Trecastagni, available on the same day or later. The location is 25 minutes from Etna South and 50 minutes from Etna North.
IMPORTANT NOTES: 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. Due to the high altitude and physical effort required, the excursion is absolutely NOT permitted to people with heart problems or any other physical condition not suitable for hiking. For people over 50 years of age, a preventive cardiology visit is recommended.
Special sunset excursion
From August to mid-September, this excursion can be done in the afternoon on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
This time slot allows you to enjoy the unique views and visit the summit craters almost alone. The program is similar to the one published above, but we'll watch the sunset, after visiting the craters, from an altitude of 2900 meters. The excursion is only organized in optimal weather conditions.
You can find this option in the booking by selecting even days in the calendar.
Extra Services
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+ EQUIPMENT RENTAL
Appropriate equipment is required for our tours. For those who need to rent hiking boots, windbreakers, and more, we have a well-stocked rental shop at MontataGrande. However, we recommend pre-ordering everything you need when booking online.
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+ SHUTTLE SERVICE
You can request a shuttle service from our meeting point in Catania (Piazza Borgo) or from your accommodation in Catania Province/Mount Etna Villages, ACIREALE, GIARRE, GIARDINI NAXOS, or TAORMINA. Starting from €30 per person. This service can be requested on the online booking form, where you will also find a detailed estimate.
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+ DRIVING/PRIVATE VEHICLES
The rates shown are for a standard tour, which involves sharing a guide and vehicle with other people. Fixed departure times are also available. If you have special requirements, we can offer a private tour, with your own vehicle and guide. This provides greater flexibility in scheduling and accommodates personal needs, such as small children or elderly guests.
Details
- ReferencesFrom April to October
- TypeHiking
- Departure CityProvenzana Plan. Etna North.
- end city8,30 -10,00 - 15,00
- Contact nameMedia. For healthy people
- Cancellation policy2900 m approx.
- Durations 5 hours
- LanguagesEnglish, Italian
Rates
- Adult fee €59 guide fee + €60 4x4 transport service offered by another company.
- Boys 8/13 years old €49 guide cost + €60 4x4 transport service
- Private guide (No sharing with other participants): +300€
Promotions
Tour Includes
- Coupon for tasting Etna specialties
- Volcanological Guide
General FAQs
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What should I bring?
Trekking shoes are mandatory for this excursion. Also recommended are: poles, sunglasses, windbreaker/sweatshirt, water. If you need them, you can use our rental where you will find shoes, jackets, poles and more.
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What can I rent?
At the Capannetta rental, our meeting point for this tour, you can rent suitable shoes and jackets.
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Can I bring my dog?
On this excursion it is not possible to bring your 4-legged friend. We recommend that you consider other tours in our catalog where it is possible to bring your dog.
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In case of bad weather?
It depends. If the conditions are not prohibitive, that is, it is cloudy or raining but there is a fair amount of visibility, the tours are usually carried out without any difficulty. In any case, the guide makes an assessment based on his/her experience and if the conditions are not right, he/she can decide to move or cancel the excursion in agreement with our guests. In case of cancellation due to bad weather, the membership fees paid will be refunded.
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Booking Notes
Book now the volcanological guide only. Remember that on site you will pay for the tickets for the expected transport, provided by another partner company.
