Hiking tour to Etna’s summit craters

Etna hiking tour to the summit craters
to discover the main ones of Etna

Explore one of the most fascinating areas on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. This excursion is an excellent alternative when access to the summit craters is restricted for safety reasons, while still offering an immersive volcanic experience and a deeper understanding of Etna’s geological history.

This experience will begin from square of the cable cab station of Rifugio Sapienza Etna Sud (Coord: 37.7006235 – 14.9983696).

This excursion does not include the pick up and drop at your place, but if necessary you can request it at booking stage.

After a short preparatory meeting, you will be provided with the equipment useful for the excursion up to 3000 meters asl.

Cratere di Nord-Est

Northeast Crater

Throughout the tour, you’ll discover ancient lava flows, eruptive fractures, impressive volcanic cones and natural lava caves, while learning about the evolution and activity of the volcano through detailed explanations from your guide.

The experience follows an approximately 7 km route. Meeting point is at Piano Provenzana at 7:30 AM. From here, a dedicated 4×4 vehicle will take the group from 1800 metres up to around 2900 metres above sea level. After a short walk near the volcanological observatory area, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the Valle del Bove and Etna’s summit area from a safe panoramic position.


The excursion then continues by off-road vehicle to approximately 2600 metres, where the hiking section begins. From there, you’ll descend along volcanic trails back to the starting altitude of 1800 metres. The overall duration of the experience is about 4.5 hours, with an elevation change of approximately 250 metres.

Hiking tour info

  • Meeting point:
    Square of the cable cab
    of Rifugio Sapienza Etna Sud
    Coord: 37.7006235 – 14.9983696

  • Departure time:
    8.00 – 9.00 am

  • Duration:
    5/6 hours approximately

  • Expected return:
    Same starting address

  • Availability:
    Every day from April to November

  • Trekking route:
    about 2 hours with 2 breaks in between

  • Altitude loss: about 400 mt

  • Difficulty:
    Difficulty: mediumMedium

Further information?

Do not hesitate to contact us for any information. We answer the phone from 8-13 and from 15-20 or write to info@etnaexclusive.com (answer within 12/24 hours) or whatsapp at the following number: (+39) 333 6815630

Other hiking tour
on Etna

PRICE LIST HIKING TOUR

Hiking tour to Etna’s summit craters

13000For person
  • medium / long socks
  • long pants
  • t-shirt
  • fleece
  • windbreaker
  • hat
  • torch
  • sunglasses
  • sunscreen
  • backpack with water 2 LT
  • packed lunch
  • gloves and scarf in the autumn and winter
  • Volcanologic guide
  • Languages: English, Italian
  • Protective helmet (if necessary)
  • Cable cab ticket
  • Insurance
  • Transportation to / from your hotel
  • Cost of lunch

Please send us your Etna enquiry with no obligation