We meet at La Terrazza dell’Etna (Meeting Point), a bar, restaurant, and self-service area, where we’ll get organized before departure.
From 1,900 meters, we take the cable car up to 2,500 meters, where the trekking begins on foot.
The first section leads us towards Montagnola, formed during the 1763 eruption. Ancient lava beneath our feet, and a panorama that gradually opens up.
Shortly after, we reach the effusive vent of the Lago Crater, formed during the 2001 eruption. It’s one of those places where Etna seems to clearly tell its own story.
Continuing on, we arrive at the Cisternazza, a large volcanic depression formed in 1792.
A few more steps and we reach the Belvedere at 2,700 meters.
In front of us lies the Valle del Bove: a caldera where layers of ancient volcanic structures are clearly visible. One of those views that makes everyone stop for a moment.
We continue ascending up to 2,950 meters (the highest point of the day), towards the Torre del Filosofo area, one of the best spots to observe the volcano’s activity up close.
We then walk along the edge of the craters formed during the 2002/03 eruption (known as Barbagallo and Tazieff).
In this area, depending on conditions, we will take a lunch break.
After the break, we begin the descent: we’ll go down along the western flank of the crater, crossing the lava fields from the 2002/03 eruption.
Following the trail, we reach a clearly visible lava channel, with a short stop in a warm area where the ground still reveals how alive this mountain is.
Final stretch… and we return to the cable car terminal.
The descent back down the mountain marks the end of the excursion, but with one certainty:
Etna, when experienced on foot, is a completely different story.
INCLUDED:
• Volcanological and/or Alpine Guide
• Full safety equipment (if required)
• Trekking boots, poles, helmet
• Insurance
NOT INCLUDED (EXTRA COSTS):
• Cable car and/or 4×4 ticket
– Cable car (round trip) 54.00 EUR
– Cable car (round trip) + 4×4 (ascent) 65.00 EUR
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
• Long trousers
• Windproof jacket
• Trekking shoes / long socks
• Sunglasses / sunscreen
• Backpack
• At least 1.5 L of water (summer season)
• Snacks
SERVICES AVAILABLE:
• Free parking (white lines)
• Paid parking (blue lines)
• Bar – Restaurant – Souvenir shop
The excursion is strongly not recommended for people with asthma, heart or circulatory conditions, or diabetes.
We meet at La Terrazza dell’Etna (meeting point), a bar–restaurant–self-service area, where we’ll get ready before departure.
The hike begins at an altitude of 1,900 meters, along the 2002/03 eruption trail, with views over the Etna South tourist station.
We continue along the 1537 eruptive fracture and then head up toward the 1892 crater.
Next, we reach the 2001 eruptive cone: we climb to the top and… yes, this is where a stop is a must. The view from up there is absolutely worth it.
From here, the trail leads us toward the Schiena dell’Asino, crossing pioneer vegetation that is slowly reclaiming the volcanic terrain.
We arrive at the viewpoint overlooking the spectacular Valle del Bove, at around 2,200 meters: in front of us, the remains of ancient volcanic structures.
This is where we stop for lunch—and trust us, everything tastes better with this view.
After the break, we begin our descent: we walk down a sandy channel toward the Pitagora Cave, a fascinating volcanic dyke carved into the rock.
The final stretch gently leads us back through a conifer forest… and then back to the starting point.
A hike of great natural value that will allow you to rediscover the eruptive activity that shaped today’s landscape.
The “Private” excursion option can be requested at the time of booking.
It includes only you and the guide, with no other participants.
You can choose one of our existing excursions, or—if you already have a specific place in mind—we’ll be happy to plan a custom experience just for you.
FOR MORE INFO AND PRICING, CONTACT US.
The lava flow excursion, although it is the most sought-after and magical experience, is a service that cannot be guaranteed.
Etna, despite being one of the most active volcanoes in the world, does not have constant effusive activity.
Please note that eruptions can occur at the summit (from the summit craters) and/or along the flanks (on the volcanic edifice).
For this reason, the “Lava Flow Excursion” cannot be defined in advance, neither in terms of timing nor location.
We, at GuideEtnaSud, will offer it as a “last minute” experience whenever conditions allow.
