Etna - Trekking to the summit craters (only guide service) experienced hikers

Sicily , Italy

Etna - Trekking to the summit craters (only guide service) experienced hikers

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(285 reviews)

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About this experience

Trekking in small groups

Ascent by off-road vehicles along the panoramic northern slope up to 2,825 meters. From there, the hike continues on foot through volcanic scoria and lava bombs, with a 500-meter elevation gain, reaching the rim of the Central Crater at 3,380 meters.
After a stop at the summit to observe the volcanic landscape, the descent is on foot down to 1,800 meters (approx. 7 km), crossing large gullies filled with soft volcanic sand.

Main data:
• Total distance (round trip): 12 km
• Maximum altitude: 3,380 m
• Minimum altitude: 1,800 m
• Ascent: +500 m
• Descent: -1,580 m (the long downhill section may be more demanding than the climb)
• Difficulty: Suitable only for experienced hikers

Note:
Participants who decide during the excursion to return by bus from 2,850 m to 1,800 m must pay €70 instead of €50.

Available options

Only guide service

What's included

Licensed Volcano Guide

Entry/Admission to Mount Etna

Trekking poles, trekking shoes, helmets, warm jacket, extra socks, extra backpack

Insurance in case of accidents

Detailed itinerary

This is the Etna Nord tourist area at Piano Provenzana—less crowded than the southern slope, more authentic, and closely connected to the volcanic landscape.
Here you meet the guides for your excursion. Before departure, you can use the restrooms, stop at the café for breakfast, enjoy a coffee or tea, and a pastry.

Next, you’ll have a short briefing with the guides, who provide all the equipment and information needed for the hike.

This meeting point lies within the 2002 lava flow. The tourist area of Piano Provenzana was destroyed by that eruption on October 27, 2002. The access road is fully drivable, so you can reach the starting point with your own vehicle. In winter, carry snow chains or use winter tires.

From here you board 4×4 vehicles with the guides for a panoramic drive up the northern flank of Mount Etna. The route crosses lava fields and lateral craters, climbing to 2,960 m, where your trek to the summit begins.

Meet the guides at 7:45 a.m. at Piano Provenzana, departing 8:00–8:15 a.m. An afternoon start at 1:00 p.m. runs from May to October.
Travel by authorized 4×4 vehicles along a 9.5 km panoramic track on Etna’s wild, less touristy north slope, where groups are smaller for a more personal experience. The route climbs from 1,800 m to 2,960 m, crossing forests, recent lava flows, a lava-flow channel, eruptive fractures and lateral craters over 40 m deep. Guides accompany you throughout, during both drive and hike.
The unpaved road offers views of northern Sicily, the Aeolian Islands, Strait of Messina, Calabria, the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, and, in rare clarity, the Madonie range, Gulf of Catania, Syracuse, Augusta, and the vast Valle del Bove.
This itinerary reveals Etna’s landscapes—from green woodland and dramatic craters to the stark high-altitude desert—ending near 3,000 m, where the trek to the summit begins.

Stop 3

From 2,960 m, reached by authorized 4×4, begins the guided summit hike of Mount Etna. The trek climbs 5 km with 550 m ascent to the summit area and its four main craters: North-East, Voragine, Bocca Nuova, and South-East.
Because activity varies daily, guides choose the safest route toward the most active yet secure crater, adjusting if gas, heat, or fractures require.
Altitude ranges 2,960–3,323 m, so good fitness is essential and mild altitude effects are possible.
The return is a long descent on foot from 3,300 to 1,800 m, about 7 km and 1,500 m negative gain, suited to experienced hikers with strong knees, as it can feel harder than the climb.
The path follows soft scoria and sandy gullies through recent lava and the wide Piano delle Concalze, then crosses 2.5 km of ski slopes with rougher, stony ground before reaching the start.
Total distance is about 12–13 km, with small route changes possible and an overall duration of roughly 6 hours.

Piano Provenzana, on Mount Etna’s north side, is easy to reach by private or rental car along fully paved public roads.
Surrounded by pine forest and dramatic lava fields, the area was reshaped by the October 2002 eruption, which destroyed the original facilities and left a striking volcanic landscape of historic interest.
You’ll find souvenir shops, cafés and bars for breakfast, lunch or coffee, plus spots to refill water bottles. In winter it serves as a ski resort; in summer it becomes the starting point for guided hikes and excursions.
Blue-lined parking areas welcome cars and camper vans. If you’ve booked a tour, meet your volcanological guide directly on-site meeting points.
Less crowded than other Etna stations, Piano Provenzana offers a quiet, authentic way to experience Europe’s highest active volcano.

What's not included

Transport service from your accommodation

Hat and gloves (during autumn, winter and spring)

Parking ticket (3€ for the whole day) - You can pay it on the spot after the excursion

Off road vehicle (one way only) from1800m up to 2825m (50€per person to be paid on the spot)

Those who choose to return by bus from 2,850 m to 1,800 m must pay €70 instead of €50

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

35 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

250 reviews

5★

230

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

This type of itinerary, in relation to the type, is suited to people in good physical health, not suffering from particular diseases (breathing ones, or hypertension).

The excursion could be subjected to variations at the discretion of the Guides, or it could be interrupted in case of changes of the environmental, climatic or volcanic conditions, so as to undermine the safety of the entire group.

For the success of the excursion and for its correct carrying out, it’s good to know perfectly your health conditions and, if necessary, let the Guide know about them, in order to reduce the occurrence of any problems and to avoid any risks.

The excursion will be carried out according to the limits established by the ordinance in force published by the competent authorities in case of volcanic explosions, the volcano guides must respect it. In this case the guides must stop where it is still safe to arrive for the safety of the entire group.

The route consists of the ascent and the walking along the crater edges, this may cause dizziness to susceptible individuals.

We recommend not to use contact lens, because of the exhaled volcanic gases and of ash. This last one could easily cause problems, if pushed.

The trekking requires a discrete preparation on a physical level. Being a path that develops at high altitude, it will be easy to accuse symptoms of fatigue. It is required attention, since it is a volcanic active area, subjected to constant gaseous exhalations and composed by a soil constituted by inconsistent and unstable rocks.

Without adequate shoes you are not covered by insurance.

Pregnant women who have passed the third month of pregnancy are not allowed to take part to any excursion activity.

Because of the continuous and unpredictable evolution of the volcanic activity, the excursions could undergo variations, or, in extreme cases, be cancelled, at the discretion of the guide for safety reasons.

The excursion is not suitable for children under 12 years old

Meeting point

The meeting point is located in the parking lot near the active chairlift at Eta Nord in winter. The bar is the second house of the 4 present in the parking lot. Please note that our meeting point is the "Chiosco Bar Mareneve" not the "Chiosco Bar Etna Nord".

About Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich Greek and Roman heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors with its diverse attractions and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions

Valley of the Temples

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring some of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. The site is a testament to Sicily's rich Greek heritage and offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past.

Historical 2-3 hours €10

Mount Etna

Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Mount Etna is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Nature Half day to full day €30-€100 (depending on the tour and activities)

Palermo Cathedral

A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a masterpiece of religious art and history. The cathedral's interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and tombs of notable historical figures.

Architectural 1-2 hours €7

Taormina

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the iconic Greek Theatre. Taormina is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, €10 for the Greek Theatre

Cefalù

A picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming medieval streets. Cefalù is a popular destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration.

Beach Half day to full day Free to explore, €5 for La Rocca

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arancini

Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, often shaped like small oranges.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with pistachios or chocolate chips.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with a sauce made from tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Granita

A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors, typically served with a brioche for breakfast.

Dessert Vegan and gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Madonie Regional Park Volcano trekking on Mount Etna Beach lounging in Cefalù Spa treatments in Taormina Visiting the Valley of the Temples Exploring the historic center of Palermo Snorkeling and diving in the Aeolian Islands Boat tours along the coast

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for exploring Sicily's attractions. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the countryside is lush and green.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: Sicilian, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution

Sicily is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur in tourist areas, and some regions may have higher crime rates.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions, distractions, or overly friendly advances.

Getting there

By air

Palermo Airport • 32 km (20 miles) from Palermo city center
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 7 km (4.3 miles) from Catania city center

By train

Palermo Centrale, Catania Centrale

By bus

Palermo Bus Terminal, Catania Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Sicily, with regular services connecting major cities and towns. The network can be complex, but it is affordable and convenient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Palermo Centro Storico Taormina Catania Centro Agrigento

Day trips

Aeolian Islands

25-50 km (16-31 miles) from Milazzo • Full day to overnight

A group of seven volcanic islands known for their stunning landscapes, hot springs, and unique geological features. The islands offer a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and relaxing in natural hot springs.

Erice

100 km (62 miles) from Palermo • Half day to full day

A medieval hilltop town known for its stunning views, historic landmarks, and charming streets. Erice is a popular destination for those interested in history, culture, and panoramic views.

Noto

90 km (56 miles) from Syracuse • Half day to full day

A picturesque Baroque town known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Noto is a popular destination for those interested in art, history, and culture.

Festivals

Infiorata di Noto • May Taormina Film Fest • June Sagra del Miele • September

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Italian or Sicilian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Visit local markets and try street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
Explore the island's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Aeolian Islands, the Madonie Regional Park, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas, but be prepared for narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and limited parking.
Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (April-June, September-October) for better prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.