Booking Center
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts – Full refund guaranteed.
- Minimum age: 12 years – The hike is not suitable for children under 12 or for people with heart conditions, asthma, or joint problems.
- Good physical condition required – Participants must be fit and able to hike on difficult terrain, at high altitudes, and in the presence of volcanic gases.
- Optional transfer service – Available between Catania and Taormina, with hotel pick-up on request.
- Available from April to October
What's included
✅ Transfer service (if selected) – Pick-up & drop-off available between Catania and Taormina.
✅ Packed lunch (if selected) – Includes sandwich, fruit, water, and snacks to fuel your hike.
✅ UNIMOG 4×4 ticket – Ride up and down to 2,800 meters on a powerful off-road vehicle.
✅ Certified alpine or volcanological guide – Local experts will lead you safely while sharing Etna’s geology and legends.
✅ VAT and insurance – All taxes and insurance are covered for a worry-free experience.
Tour Tips & Info
Q: How difficult is the Etna Summit Hike?
A: This is a demanding full-day excursion for experienced hikers. You’ll trek up to 3,300 meters of altitude on loose volcanic terrain, often under sun and wind exposure. A good level of fitness and sure-footedness is essential.
Q: Can children or elderly people join the hike?
A: Due to the high altitude and physical demands, the tour is not suitable for children under 12 or for elderly participants. Consider our Hiking Etna Tour as a softer alternative.
Q: What should I wear and bring?
A: You’ll need hiking boots, a windproof and warm jacket, layers, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and at least 1.5 liters of water. Trekking poles and a small backpack are highly recommended. Weather on the summit can be very different from the base.
Q: Is the tour safe in case of volcanic activity?
A: Yes. We operate only under safe conditions, following constant updates from INGV (the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology). In case of increased volcanic risk, the itinerary will be adapted or the hike rescheduled.
Q: Will we reach the summit craters?
A: Yes, if weather and safety conditions allow. We aim to reach the edge of the active summit craters at around 3,300 meters, accompanied by an authorized alpine or volcanological guide.
Q: How long is the hike?
A: The tour lasts about 5–6 hours including stops. The hiking section is approximately 5–6 km with an elevation gain of +330 meters and descent of -470 meters. The tour includes a 4x4 off-road ascent to 2,800 m to shorten the approach.
Q: Is lunch included?
A: No, lunch is not included. Please bring your own packed lunch and snacks. We'll stop for a scenic break during the hike.
Q: What if the 4x4 transport is unavailable?
A: In rare cases (e.g. weather or technical issues), the off-road transport may not operate. If this happens, we’ll offer an alternative trekking route or reschedule the experience.
Q: Is this tour available all year?
A: The summit hike is usually offered from June to October. Outside this period, snow and weather conditions limit access to high altitudes. In winter, we offer snowshoeing or ski mountaineering alternatives.
Q: What language does the guide speak?
A: Our professional guides speak fluent English, French and Italian. Other languages can be arranged upon request, depending on availability.
Etna Summit Hike
Reach the summit of Etna with an expert guide among craters with large fumaroles, sulfur and ash. Walk among the most recent lava flows, lava gorge and the immense Valle del Bove.
Etna summit hike
✔ 4x4 Ascent up to 2800 meters – Reach high altitudes quickly aboard a rugged off-road vehicle.
✔ Hike to the Summit Craters – Trek to the edge of the active craters at around 3300 meters.
✔ Breathtaking Volcanic Landscapes – Walk through lava fields, active fumaroles, and lunar terrain.
✔ Expert Guided Experience – Led by licensed alpine or volcanological guides.
✔ Small, Select Groups – Enjoy a safer, more personal experience with limited participants.
Etna Summit Hike Adventure
Conquer Europe's Highest Active Volcano via the Wild Northern Route
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. This full-day guided trek from the northern side offers a unique blend of off-road adventure and challenging hiking, leading you through dramatic volcanic landscapes to the awe-inspiring summit craters. Ideal for seasoned hikers and adventure enthusiasts, this experience promises both thrill and natural beauty.
✅ Off-Road Ascent to 2800 Meters
Your adventure begins at Piano Provenzana (1,800 meters), where you'll board a robust 4x4 Unimog vehicle. Traverse ancient lava flows and rugged terrains as you ascend to an altitude of 2,800 meters, reaching the Pizzi Deneri Volcanological Observatory. This off-road journey offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, setting the stage for the hike ahead.
✅ Challenging Trek to the Summit Craters
From the 2,800-meter mark, commence a demanding hike to the summit craters, including the Central Crater and Bocca Nuova, situated at approximately 3,300 meters. Navigate through steep ascents, volcanic ash, and rocky paths, all under the guidance of a certified volcanological guide. The effort is rewarded with unparalleled views of the volcanic landscape and the Sicilian coastline.
✅ Explore the Majestic Valle del Bove
During your descent, take in the breathtaking vistas of the Valle del Bove, a vast volcanic depression showcasing Etna's dynamic geological history. This natural amphitheater offers a unique perspective on the volcano's past eruptions and formations.
✅ Expert Guidance and Safety
Throughout the excursion, benefit from the knowledge and expertise of licensed alpine and volcanological guides. They ensure your safety while enriching your understanding of Mount Etna's geology, history, and ongoing activity. All necessary equipment, including helmets and trekking poles, is provided.
✅ Comprehensive Package
The tour includes round-trip transportation via 4x4 Unimog, guided trekking to the summit craters, and necessary safety equipment. Participants should be in good physical condition and prepared for a strenuous hike. Please note that this excursion is not recommended for individuals with heart conditions, respiratory issues, or those unaccustomed to high-altitude trekking.
👉 Book your Etna Summit Hike now and experience the raw power and beauty of Mount Etna from its most adventurous side!
Meeting Point
Piano Provenzana - Etna nord, via Provenzana, 95015 Linguaglossa CT
