The excursion begins at the port of Vulcano, the perfect starting point to begin this unforgettable adventure. Your guide will welcome you with all the information you need to make the best of the route. We walk towards the crater, passing through the town of Vulcano and then arriving at the foot of the Great Crater of Vulcano. As we climb, the view becomes more and more spectacular: on one side, the view of the Aeolian archipelago; on the other, the intense contrast of the volcanic rocks and the crystal clear sea. Once we reach the crater, we stop to observe the striking fumaroles and discover details of the local geology narrated by the guide. Here, at the crater rim, you can admire the beating heart of Vulcan, with smoke rising and heat emanating from the ground. The descent takes us back through the outward path that gives new perspectives on the island, immersed in nature and surrounded by the wild beauty of the volcano. We end the hike at the harbor, where you can relax and enjoy Vulcan’s unique charm.


The excursion departs from the heart of Vulcan at the harbor, with a meeting scheduled at least 20 minutes before the departure time to check equipment, receive instructions from the volcanological guide, and have time to prepare. Departure is scheduled in the morning or late afternoon, depending on weather conditions and season, to ensure an optimal experience. The hike takes about 3-4 hours in total, including the ascent, time to explore the crater, the guide’s explanation, and the descent. The trek involves an elevation gain of about 390 meters uphill and the same amount downhill, with a trail length of about 4 km round trip. The trail crosses volcanic terrain, with sandy and rocky sections, offering breathtaking views of the Aeolian archipelago. The hike is suitable for those who are reasonably fit and want to experience an immersive adventure between nature and volcano.
Meeting point: Port of Vulcan
Duration: About 3-4 hours
Meeting time: upon request
Departure time: upon request
Difficulty: Suitable for all
Height difference: About 390m
Walking distance About 4 km
Return time: About 3-4 hours after departure
Duration trekking: Approximately 3-4 hours with stops
Trekking to the Great Crater of Vulcano: the heart of the Aeolian Islands costs €45.00 per person. Included in the price is the volcanological guide who accompanies you. Children from 5 to 12 years old pay € 25.00 per person. A minimum number of 6 participants (adults) is required for this excursion.
- Adults: €45.00 per person
- Children 5-12 years old: €25.00 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 November, but only by reservation.
- Official volcanological guide
- Accident insurance
- Food and drink
- Hiking shoe rental
- Jacket rental
- Backpack rental
- Hiking poles
- Tip for the guide (not mandatory)
For a good hiking trip, proper preparation is essential. We always recommend dressing in layers. How many and what layers depend on the season. As the sun sets, temperatures drop. In addition, wind can often make the weather seem even colder. A windbreaker and a hat are therefore not a luxury. It is possible to rent hiking shoes and a jacket by contacting your guide or the rental store in Stromboli. 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. 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
If weather conditions do not allow the hike to be conducted safely, the activity will be cancelled or postponed. In case of cancellation, you will be offered a new date. It will be the guide's responsibility to contact you in case of bad weather.
Yes, children can participate, but it depends on their age and their experience and physical endurance. It is advisable to contact us to evaluate the most suitable tour together.
Yes, reservations are required. This allows us to better organize excursions, ensure availability, and update you on any changes related to weather or volcanic activity.
Trekking to Vulcan requires moderate physical exertion, with elevation gains that can be challenging. It is essential to consult your doctor before booking. In addition, another important factor is the altitude and gases emitted. Changes in pressure could cause damage.
For safety reasons, it is not possible to leave participants alone along the route. In case of difficulty, the guide will try to find the best solution for you, such as an early return of the group or in the company of an assistant.
In general, dogs are allowed on easier hikes as long as they are on a leash and do not bother other people. Important is that the dog is used to walking on particularly abrasive terrain.
Yes, the hike is suitable for everyone, as long as you have good health and enjoy walking.
Absolutely! We have hikes suitable for beginners and those with no hiking experience.
Yes, there are always stops to admire the view, take photos and listen to the guide's explanations.
We ask you to inform us as soon as possible in case you want to cancel, so we can accommodate other people. We don't ask for a deposit, because we work on a trust basis. And we believe in karma for people who betray our trust.
It can be reached by Liberty lines hydrofoil from Milazzo or the other Aeolian islands.
https://www.libertylines.it/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/eolie_tascabile_1novembre.pdf
This is not necessary. All accommodations in Stromboli are in close proximity to the meeting point. However, a pick-up and/or drop-off service is not included.
Arriving on time is a show of respect. Not only for the guide, but also for the other people on the hike. If you are going to be late, please contact us as soon as possible so that we can agree on what to do.
Yes, usually groups are limited to about 25 participants per guide to ensure safety and a better experience.
The best months are from April to October, when the weather is more stable and pleasant. In summer, however, it may be more crowded, so it is advisable to leave early.
Vulcan's thermal pools are closed for environmental safety reasons, but it is possible to bathe in the warm sea water near the coastal fumaroles.
The sulfur gases in the crater can be irritating, especially for people with respiratory problems or allergies. It is recommended to wear a mask and always follow the guide's directions.
Vulcano is famous for its active fumaroles, the deep yellow color of the sulfur-rich soil, and its historical importance, being considered the home of the god Vulcan in Roman mythology.
Of course! After the excursion, you can explore the black beaches, visit the spa resorts, or taste typical products such as capers and malvasia cakes.