Etna Alcantara tour: the majestic lava landscape
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Etna Alcantara tour is the experience to discover two totally different types of lava landscapes. The first part of the day will take you to the northern side of Mt. Etna at 6500 ft above sea level. Here you will learn about the stages that led to the origin of Mt. Etna and the different types of volcanic activities all hiking up to the edge of some of the extinct craters formed by ancient eruptions.
In the second part of the Etna Alcantara tour, you will visit the Alcantara Valley where the Alcantara River has shaped the famous basaltic lava canyon formed by prehistoric lava flows of Mount Etna. Here you will spend some times by the River, having the possibility to go in the cold water, admiring outstanding geological formations.
Don't forget to bring with you: sunscreen, hat, hiking shoes. Water shoes, swimsuits and towels will be useful if you plan to go in the water (in the summertime).
Available options
Shared group tour
Pickup included
Small group (min 8 -max 16)
Pickup included
Private tour
Pickup included
What's included
Taxes
Round trip transfer by private A/C van
Entrance ticket to the Alcantara Gorges
Walking tours/ hikes
Liability Insurance
Discover Messina Travel Assistance
Live comments on board
Professional tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
The stele was raised by the will of Archbishop Angelo Paino
2
Stop 2
Pass by
The fountain of Neptune is the second fountain created in Messina by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli
3
It is an impressive temple, the second in size for the churches of Messina
4
Norther part of Etna Volcano
5
the Alcantara river Park, established in 2001, is a protected area the cold Alcantara river originates in the Nebrodi Mountains and flows into the middle of a spectacular lava canyon. In the Alcantara area became a River Park.
6
Stop 6
Is the highest active volcano in Europe with it 10.900 ft. The newest mountain of Sicily, it started its eruptions 500.000 years ago and since then has never stopped!
What's not included
Gratuities
Private expenses
Anything which is not specified in the “Inclusions”
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
8 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
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
About Messina
Messina, located on the northeastern coast of Sicily, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and strategic location. It serves as a major hub for ferries to mainland Italy and offers a unique blend of cultural influences from various eras.
Top Attractions
Messina Cathedral
This beautiful cathedral, rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, features a stunning façade and houses the famous silver statue of the Virgin Mary.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Messina
This museum showcases a rich collection of art and artifacts, including works by renowned artists like Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina.
Museum
2-3 hours
€8
Messina Harbour
One of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, Messina Harbour offers a glimpse into the city's maritime history and modern-day significance.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pasta alla Norma
A classic Sicilian dish made with pasta, tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Arancini
Fried rice balls filled with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking Mount Etna
Scuba diving
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Boat tours
Swimming
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Messina for warm weather and outdoor activities. The sea is warm, and the city is lively with festivals and events.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, Sicilian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Messina is generally safe, but visitors should take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Reggio Calabria Airport • 30 km
By train
Messina Centrale
By bus
Messina Centrale Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The AMT bus system covers most of the city and is affordable and efficient. Buses are the primary mode of public transport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Harbour Area
Day trips
Taormina
50 km • Half day to full day
Taormina is a charming hilltop town known for its ancient Greek theater, stunning views, and luxurious resorts.
Mount Etna
80 km • Full day
Mount Etna is an active volcano and one of the most famous natural attractions in Sicily. Visitors can hike, take guided tours, and enjoy the stunning views.
Festivals
Feast of the Assumption • August 15th
Pro tips
- Visit the fish market in the morning for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere.
- Take a ferry to the nearby town of Reggio Calabria for a day trip.
- Explore the historic city center on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops.
- Try local specialties like granita and brioche for a classic Sicilian breakfast.
- Check the schedule for the Feast of the Assumption if visiting in August for a unique cultural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
