Gigative · Experiences
Etna Volcano: South Side Guided Summit Hike
About this experience
Each excursion is carried out in compliance with the levels of volcanic risk. After the meeting and departure from Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza (Etna Sud), with the cable car and 4x4 jeep you reach an altitude of 2,800 meters and from here in about 2 hours of walking through lava flows and environments looking lunar, you reach the Etna Summit Craters at 3340mt. Here we will walk on the spectacular rim of the Central Crater, we will face the dizzying Northeast Crater and we will see at our side the famous Southeast Crater, author of the most recent and impressive eruptions. In addition to the vastness of the summit craters, you will admire a unique volcanic environment, with gas emissions, volcanic bombs and the sparkling colors of the ground thanks to the sublimation of various elements, including sulfur in particular. During the descent we will visit the craters of Barbagallo and cross a lava channel. Once again at 2500 m with the Etna cable car we will return to the starting point.
What to expect
Trekking carried out by a certified company of mountain and volcano guide who will be happy to accompany you with professionalism and safety up to the top of Etna. Take breaks along the way and capture unique photos of the summit craters as you admire the stunning natural beauty all around you. After meeting and departing from Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza (Etna South), with the cable car and jeep 4x4 you reach an altitude of 2,800 meters and from here in about 2 hours of walking through lava flows and lunar-looking environments, we will reach the Etna Summit Craters. Here we will walk on the spectacular rim of the Central Crater, we will face the vertiginous Northeast Crater and we will see at our side the famous Southeast Crater, author of the most recent and impressive eruptions. In addition to the vastness of the summit craters, you will admire a unique volcanic environment, with gas emissions, volcanic bombs, and the sparkling colors of the ground due to the sublimation of various elements, including sulfur in particular. During the descent we will visit Barbagallo craters and cross a lava flow channel. Once again at 2500 masl with the Etna cable car we will return to the starting point. Remember that we are always talking about an active volcano so there may be variations of itinerary if necessary
What’s included
- Trekking boots
- Trekking sticks
- Helmet
- Insurance and Volcanological Guides
Not included
- Bottle of water
- Snack and food
- Cable car and 4x4 jeep tickets (65€ per person) to be paid locally
- Pick up transfer service from Catania or around
- Wind jacket
Tour & ticket options
Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.
Etna Summit craters
Duration: 6 hours
Meeting & pickup
- Departure from Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza at our Ashàra's Info point located close to Terrazza dell'Etna Restaurant
End point
- Departure from Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza at our Ashàra's Info point located close to Terrazza dell'Etna Restaurant
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- People have to be in a perfect physical conditions. The level is medium-high
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.