Etna 3000 m · High-altitude trek

The following programme applies when weather, volcanic activity and access restrictions allow it.

4x4 ride up to 2,900 metres

Our journey starts at 8:30 at Piano Provenzana (1,800 metres), meeting at the Chiosco bar Etna Nord. From here we board special 4x4 vehicles, crossing breathtaking volcanic landscapes up to 2,900 metres, near the Volcanological Observatory.

Trek to the summit craters

From this point the adventure on foot begins: a trek of about 1.5 / 2 hours up to the majestic rim of Etna's summit craters. At the top, among volcanic fumes and unforgettable views over the sea and Sicily, we'll stop to explore the area and listen to the guide's stories and scientific explanations.

Descent and return to Piano Provenzana

After enjoying the volcanic spectacle of Etna's summit, we hike down to 2,800 metres, where the 4x4 vehicles will be waiting to take us back to Piano Provenzana. In total the trek covers about 5 km with a moderate elevation gain of about 300-400 metres. The overall duration of the tour is about 4.5 – 5 hours.

Safety requirements and restrictions

Being a high-altitude excursion, this tour is suitable for people in good physical health. It is not allowed for people with heart conditions, high blood pressure or respiratory problems, pregnant women, and children under 8 years of age. The itinerary passes along the crater rims, which may cause problems for those who suffer from vertigo. The organisation accepts no responsibility for health problems or injuries resulting from failure to observe the medical restrictions indicated.

Recommended clothing

Layered clothing: a breathable T-shirt combined with a second thermal layer or fleece, so you can adapt to the temperature changes between the start and the summit. Long trousers, preferably trekking ones, comfortable and sturdy. Windproof jacket or down jacket: essential at altitude to protect you from the cold and the biting wind of the volcano. Waterproof jacket (K-Way): useful to keep in your backpack in case of sudden rain.

Footwear and equipment

Trekking boots: mandatory; if you don't have them, you can rent them for an extra €5 per pair. Backpack: compact and light, ideal to carry your equipment without weighing you down.

Recommended accessories

Hat and gloves: essential at altitude to protect against cold and wind. Sunglasses and sunscreen: UV rays at high altitude are very intense. Bandana or neck warmer: useful against cold and wind; it does not protect against volcanic gases.

Food and spare clothes

Water: at least 1 litre per person, for proper hydration. Packed lunch and snacks: bring a light lunch and energy snacks (dried fruit, bars, chocolate) to recharge during the stops. Spare clothes in your backpack: optional, a T-shirt and a pair of spare socks for when the trek is over.

Weather, regulations and route safety

For safety reasons, the route may be modified or suspended at the Guide's discretion, depending on weather conditions and volcanic activity. The excursion will be carried out within the limits set by any regulations in force. In case of adverse weather conditions, we will notify you promptly to reschedule or cancel the excursion.

How long is the tour and how hard is it?

The overall duration is about 4.5 – 5 hours (departure 08:30, return 13:30). The trek is about 5 km with a moderate elevation gain of 300-400 metres: you need to be in good physical health.

How does payment work?

The price is €120 per person: €40 to be paid as a deposit through our website to confirm the booking + €80 to be paid in person on the day of the tour.

Who can take part?

The excursion is suitable for people in good physical health. It is not allowed for people with heart conditions, high blood pressure or respiratory problems, pregnant women, and children under 8. The walk along the crater rims may be an issue for those who suffer from vertigo.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is not included. You can bring your own packed lunch. We recommend bringing at least 1 litre of water per person and energy snacks.

What happens in case of bad weather or volcanic activity?

For safety reasons the route may be modified or suspended at the Guide's discretion, depending on the weather and the volcano's activity, and within the limits of any regulations in force. In case of adverse conditions we will notify you promptly to reschedule or cancel the excursion.

Do I need trekking boots?

Yes, they are mandatory. If you don't have them, you can rent them for an extra €5 per pair.

• Only €40 deposit
• Meeting at Piano Provenzana
• Certified local guides