Description
The Lava Tour excursion is organized when there are active eruptions that can be visited safely. Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, despite this it alternates large eruptive phases with more or less long periods of rest, in which the only visible volcanic phenomena are the degassing activities on the summit craters. Etna can erupt from the top (terminal eruptions) or from its sides (lateral or flank eruptions). In the case of the first type of eruption the phenomena are usually more explosive, while in lateral eruptions the phenomena are usually more effusive and the lava flows can descend on the sides of the volcano for several kilometers. With our lava tour you will be taken to see the lava from the best possible position and if the safety conditions exist it will be possible to get close to the lava flow. Since it is not possible to know in advance the place where the eruptions develop, the proposed itineraries may undergo changes even on a daily basis. The itineraries may include medium or high difficulty trekking in the event that the eruption is far from the access routes to the volcano, therefore adequate preparation is required for the chosen solution.
2 MAR 2025 – THE ERUPTION BEGAN ON 8 FEBRUARY, and is currently undergoing a phase of strong slowdown.
At the moment, activities with private guides are offered at high altitude (between 2800 and 3000 m) to see the still-fed lava channels. The excursion is conducted by EtnaExcursion Volcanological Guides and starts with a minimum of 4 participants. Given the conditions of the period, layered winter clothing + protection for the cold (tights, gloves, hat) is necessary. Length approximately 11 km round trip. Difficulty: medium. Excursion for people in good health. Not suitable for children. Bring at least 1 liter of water and a packed lunch.
Extra Services
-
VOLCANIC ACTIVITY BULLETIN 13 FEB 2025
At the moment there is an effusive activity that starts from an altitude of 3000 meters at the base of the summit craters. This type of activity does not constitute any danger for the population or for tourists as there is explosive activity only in the summit area. The area of the lava front can be enjoyed at an altitude accessible on foot (about 2000 meters).
Gallery
Details
- ReferencesOnly in case of active eruptions.
- TypeHiking
- Departure Citytrecastagni
- end cityVariable
- Contact nameMedium/high. Experienced walkers
- Cancellation policyFrom 1500 to 2500 m.
- Durations 5 hours
- LanguagesEnglish, French, German, Italian, Spanish
Rates
- Evening excursion 15.30/21 approx. €60 per person.
Promotions
Tour Includes
- Volcanological Guide
General FAQs
-
What should I bring?
For this excursion, trekking shoes, a packed lunch (not included) and water (at least 2 liters) are mandatory. We also recommend: walking sticks, sunglasses, windbreaker/sweatshirt. If you need them, you can use our rental.
-
What can I rent?
At our meeting point in Trecastagni, you can rent trekking shoes, insulating jackets, trekking poles, backpacks and request child seats for children up to 3 years old. You can book the equipment in the online booking form.
-
Can I bring my dog?
On this excursion it is not possible to bring your 4-legged friend, also for safety reasons for the animal. We recommend considering other tours in our catalog where it is possible to bring the dog.
-
Are you alone or in a couple?
The promotional rate is applicable in the presence of a group of at least 4 adults. Or if you do not reach this number you can book a private solution by purchasing 4 rates.
-
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 the event of cancellation due to bad weather, decided between the parties, any advance membership fees paid will be refunded.
Video
Related tours
Trekking in the Etna Park
5 hours
DIFFICULTY: Variable | HALF-DAY OR FULL-DAY EXCURSIONS | ONLINE FROM €59 Trekking is the most popular activity[...]
➜ Go to the tour
Volcanic Cave Tour
4 hours
ADVENTUROUS EXCURSION | FROM €59 PER PERSON | TASTING COUPON INCLUDED During Etna's eruptions, it is very[...]
➜ Go to the tour
Etna 3000 from the south with cable car and trekking
4 hours
DIFFICULTY: •••/5 | SHARED TOUR | €59 GUIDE + €52 CABLE CAR TICKET (RESIDENCE IN SICILY €15) This excursion[...]
➜ Go to the tour
Booking Notes
Rates may vary based on the type of itinerary and number of participants.



