Etna - Trekking to the summit craters (only guide service) experienced hikers

4.87(265)

Trekking in small groups! Ascent with off-road vehicles along the panoramic path on the northern side of the volcano, till a height of 2825 mt. From this point we start the ascent on foot on a path surrounded by volcanic scoria and bombs. After doing 470mt positive level difference, we will reach the edge of the Central Crater (main crater of the volcano), at an altitude of 3300 mt. There we will stop to admire the uniqueness and the processes of the volcanic environment. the descent is planned on foot from 3300 to 1800 meters for about 7 kilometers, passing through large gullies full of soft volcanic sand to the starting point of the excursion. Total kilometers (round-trip):12 km Max altitude reached:3300 mt Min altitude reached:1800 mt Total climb uphill:470 mt Total climb downhill:1500 mt - The long descent could be harder than the climb, as you descend 1500 meters of negative altitude. Difficulty: Absolutely suitable for experienced hikers.

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
This type of itinerary, in relation to the type, is suited to people in good physical health, not suffering from particular diseases (breathing ones, or hypertension).
The excursion could be subjected to variations at the discretion of the Guides, or it could be interrupted in case of changes of the environmental, climatic or volcanic conditions, so as to undermine the safety of the entire group.
For the success of the excursion and for its correct carrying out, it’s good to know perfectly your health conditions and, if necessary, let the Guide know about them, in order to reduce the occurrence of any problems and to avoid any risks.
The excursion will be carried out according to the limits established by the ordinance in force published by the competent authorities in case of volcanic explosions, the volcano guides must respect it. In this case the guides must stop where it is still safe to arrive for the safety of the entire group.
The route consists of the ascent and the walking along the crater edges, this may cause dizziness to susceptible individuals.
We recommend not to use contact lens, because of the exhaled volcanic gases and of ash. This last one could easily cause problems, if pushed.
The trekking requires a discrete preparation on a physical level. Being a path that develops at high altitude, it will be easy to accuse symptoms of fatigue. It is required attention, since it is a volcanic active area, subjected to constant gaseous exhalations and composed by a soil constituted by inconsistent and unstable rocks.
Without adequate shoes you are not covered by insurance.
Pregnant women who have passed the third month of pregnancy are not allowed to take part to any excursion activity.
Because of the continuous and unpredictable evolution of the volcanic activity, the excursions could undergo variations, or, in extreme cases, be cancelled, at the discretion of the guide for safety reasons.
The excursion is not suitable for children under 12 years old

Licensed Volcano Guide
Entry/Admission to Mount Etna
Trekking poles, trekking shoes, helmets, warm jacket, extra socks, extra backpack
Insurance in case of accidents

Transport service from your accommodation
Hat and gloves (during autumn, winter and spring)
Parking ticket (3€ for the whole day) - You can pay it on the spot after the excursion
Off road vehicle (one way only) from1800m up to 2825m (50€per person to be paid on the spot)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.