Etna summit craters 3400m trekking with 4×4 bus

The trekking itinerary

We meet at Piano Provenzana. After the guide checks the equipment and gives a briefing, we board the comfortable 4×4 buses that take us to about 2900m altitude.
Here we disembark and begin the trek to the summit of Etna volcano at about 3400m altitude. We walk along solidified lava paths that offer beautiful panoramic views of the unique lava landscape. In good weather, we can also see the Aeolian Islands.
The hike to the summit takes about 1.5 hours. Once at the top, if activities and restrictions allow, we will walk partly around the mouth of the crater. Of course there is also time for photos and the Volcanological Guide will explain everything in detail.
Then it is time for the descent. Whenever possible, the descent will be through lava channels. This is loose lava sand (very small lava rocks) along which you walk. A unique experience! On the way back, we overlook the Bove Valley and arrive at Piano delle Concazze. Here the 4×4 bus is waiting for us again to take us back to Piano Provenzana, the starting point of the hike.

Details Etna Craters Summits 3400m trekking with 4x4 bus

The excursion starts from Piano Provenzana. Departure is in the morning at 08:00 or 09:00 or in the afternoon at 13:30. The meeting is always at least 20 minutes before departure, so you can check your equipment, get used to the altitude, have time to go to the bathroom and take 2 photos. The hike takes about 5 hours in total, between the trekking, the ascent and descent by 4×4 bus, and the guide’s explanation during the hike. The walking trek takes about 3.5 hours in total: about 2 hours uphill, about a half hour at the top (if the activity allows) and then about 1 hour downhill. There is an elevation gain of about 500m. Good stamina and physical and mental condition is required for this hike. Especially because of the altitude at which we hike.

• Starting point: Provenzana Plan
• Total duration: about 5 hours
• Departure time: 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
• Height difference: about 500m
• Meeting time: 07.40 and 14.10 hours
• Distance: about ? km uphill + ? km downhill
• Return time: 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
• Difficulty: Path for walkers
• Duration by 4x4 bus: About 45 + 35 minutes
• Duration walking trek: About 3.5 hours

Price and availability excursion

Etna Crateri Sommitali 3400m trekking with 4×4 bus costs € 120.00 per person. Included in the price is the accompanying guide and also the 4×4 bus round trip. Children 10.5 to 12 years old pay € 100.00 per person.

• Adults: € 120.00 per person
• Children 10,5-12 years old: € 100,00 per person

For customized tour is private, price is on request. For groups (10+ people) and/or school groups, the price is upon request.

Payment

We work on the basis of trust. This means that we do not ask for any advance payment. You can pay the same day directly to the guide. It is possible to pay by cash, ATM or credit card.

Availability

The excursion is available from April to October, and always by reservation only. In case of restrictions and/or volcanic activity, the itinerary may vary. In this case the guide will inform you before leaving.

Including and excluding

Clothing, shoes & what to bring

For a good hiking trip, proper preparation is essential. We always recommend dressing in layers. How many and what layers depend on the season. But the higher you climb Mount Etna volcano, the colder it gets. In addition, wind can often make the weather seem even colder. A windbreaker and a hat are therefore not a luxury. We recommend bringing a backpack with at least 1.5 L of water per person. It is also recommended to bring some sweet and/or salty snacks and if desired a sack lunch. In total the hike takes about 5 hours, so always bring something extra to eat! Also don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses! In brief:

With the reservation we send you our packing list, with the things we recommend you to bring!

FAQ