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Mount Etna Tours & Tickets
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- Book a half-day guided tour around the majestic Mount Etna in Sicily and suit your travel itinerary by opting between a morning and sunset tour or transfers from Catania or Taormina.
- Explore a dark cave that was once carved out of lava with helmets and torches, you can even choose to hike up to the cave.
- Stop at an organic farm to sample honey, wine, and other typical Sicilian products.
- Enjoy a gorgeous panoramic view of the Valle del Bove, Etna’s eastern flank.
- If you opt for the morning tour, you’ll see Hornitos, an area of ancient explosive activity.
- Book a half-day guided tour around the majestic Mount Etna in Sicily and suit your travel itinerary by opting between a morning and sunset tour or transfers from Catania or Taormina.
- Explore a dark cave that was once carved out of lava with helmets and torches, you can even choose to hike up to the cave.
- Stop at an organic farm to sample honey, wine, and other typical Sicilian products.
- Enjoy a gorgeous panoramic view of the Valle del Bove, Etna’s eastern flank.
- If you opt for the morning tour, you’ll see Hornitos, an area of ancient explosive activity.
Inclusions
- Tour around Etna Park
- Multilingual escort / GAE guide
- Hotel or meeting point transfers (optional)
- Lava cave exploration
- 3km hike to lava cave (optional)
- Sicilian products and local wine-tasting (optional)
- Safety equipment inside the cave
- Trekking shoes (on request)
- Tip: In the winter months, from December to March, heavy clothing is recommended, with jackets, gloves, hats and scarves.
- This experience is suitable for pram/stroller users.
- Heeled shoes, sandals, and flip-flops are not allowed for this experience as it involves walking on rugged terrain.
- Do not carry suitcases or trolleys on this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Mount Etna is one of the most ambitious destinations for trekkers. Start your adventure at “Rifugio Sapienza” at 1900 mt. (Etna South).
- If you want, hop on a cable car and reach 2500 mt. From there, take the 4x4 bus and ascend to 2900 mt.
- Trek your way up to the Summit Craters at 3340 mt.
- Admire the lunar-looking lava fields along the way that will lead you under the summit craters.
- Browse through the different options we offer and choose the one that suits you best!
- Mount Etna is one of the most ambitious destinations for trekkers. Start your adventure at “Rifugio Sapienza” at 1900 mt. (Etna South).
- If you want, hop on a cable car and reach 2500 mt. From there, take the 4x4 bus and ascend to 2900 mt.
- Trek your way up to the Summit Craters at 3340 mt.
- Admire the lunar-looking lava fields along the way that will lead you under the summit craters.
- Browse through the different options we offer and choose the one that suits you best!
Inclusions
- Trek at Mount Etna
- English & Italian-speaking guide
- Protective helmet
- Brunch/aperitivo/refreshments (optional)
- Tasting (optional)
- Round-trip cable car tickets (optional)
- Tip: We advise a good pair of trekking shoes, an anti-wind and anti-rain jacket, a hat, and telescopic sticks in order to help yourself in the walk (only if you already have those), and in general dress appropriately for the various temperatures that are possible to find during the excursion.
- The price of the cable car (for the "Trekking to the Summit" option) needs to be paid in cash on the day of the experience.
- You can avail round-trip ascent and descent by a 4x4 vehicle at an extra cost on-site.
- This tour is restricted to those with heart problems and asthma.
- The excursion is subject to changes in case of volcanic activity and/or adverse weather conditions, so as not to compromise the safety of the participants.
- Please check your final voucher for meeting point information.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Book a guided tour around the smokey Mount Etna and learn about its geological origins.
- Walk upon lunar landscapes and paths less traveled and discover the raw beauty of nature.
- Journey into the depths of a cave formed by lava with helmets and torches for guidance.
- Have lunch 2000m above sea level and enjoy local delicacies, wines, liqueurs, and more.
- Choose from several options available, such as a full-day or half-day tour that best suits your needs.
- Book a guided tour around the smokey Mount Etna and learn about its geological origins.
- Walk upon lunar landscapes and paths less traveled and discover the raw beauty of nature.
- Journey into the depths of a cave formed by lava with helmets and torches for guidance.
- Have lunch 2000m above sea level and enjoy local delicacies, wines, liqueurs, and more.
- Choose from several options available, such as a full-day or half-day tour that best suits your needs.
Inclusions
- Tour around Mount Etna
- Multilingual escort / GAE guide
- Lunch
- Trekking shoes (on request)
- Safety equipment inside the cave
Exclusions
- Hotel transfers
- Tip: April to September is the best time for hiking Mount Etna as you'll have clear, blue skies.
- The minimum number of participants for this tour is 2.
- This tour is stroller accessible.
- Please bring your own snacks, water, and backpack for the trip.
- Dress Code: Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Heeled shoes, sandals, flip-flops, suitcases, and trolleys are not allowed.
- Seats inside the cabin will be assigned at random.
- The timetable can vary by 30 minutes as it is subject to technical, traffic, authority restrictions, adverse weather, and force majeure conditions.
- On request, it is possible to rent trekking shoes for free. It is also possible to rent a car seat at a cost of 20 euros (to be paid on-site).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Trek a beautiful path along the slopes of Mount Etna on this half-day guided tour with an expert English, French, or Italian-speaking guide.
- Soak in the sprawling vegetation around you, juxtaposed against the black lava that has settled on the ground.
- Explore volcanic cones and lava flows on the highest volcano in Italy, along with its frosty snow caves, all combined to give you a unique diorama.
- On your adventure you will also get to see the calderas and lava caves of the Valle del Bove.
- Trek a beautiful path along the slopes of Mount Etna on this half-day guided tour with an expert English, French, or Italian-speaking guide.
- Soak in the sprawling vegetation around you, juxtaposed against the black lava that has settled on the ground.
- Explore volcanic cones and lava flows on the highest volcano in Italy, along with its frosty snow caves, all combined to give you a unique diorama.
- On your adventure you will also get to see the calderas and lava caves of the Valle del Bove.
Inclusions
- Half-day trek on Mount Etna
- Expert English, French, or Italian-speaking guide
- Helmets for use in Snow Cave
- Tip: Lunch is not included on this tour, but you are allowed to bring your own food. We recommend packing a light meal to enjoy a scenic picnic!
- It is recommended to wear trekking shoes, a hat, and a jacket.
- This experience is not suitable for guests aged 8 and under.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Set off on a scenic walk at Mount Etna with an English or Italian-speaking guide and taste delectable Sicilian staples of olive oil and wine.
- Walk along and descend into the Silvestri Craters, before ascending to Sapienza Refuge and its volcanic cave.
- Learn about the harvesting and pressing process of olive oil at an Etnean oil mill and sip on wine at a traditional winery.
- Capture breathtaking panoramas of Catania Plain's unique landscape as you trek to the highest active volcano in Europe.
- Set off on a scenic walk at Mount Etna with an English or Italian-speaking guide and taste delectable Sicilian staples of olive oil and wine.
- Walk along and descend into the Silvestri Craters, before ascending to Sapienza Refuge and its volcanic cave.
- Learn about the harvesting and pressing process of olive oil at an Etnean oil mill and sip on wine at a traditional winery.
- Capture breathtaking panoramas of Catania Plain's unique landscape as you trek to the highest active volcano in Europe.
Inclusions
- Full-day guided walk at Mount Etna
- English & Italian-speaking guide
- Guided tour of oil mill & tasting
- Guided tour of winery & tasting
Exclusions
- Lunch
- Tip: Lunch is not included with this tour but it's a good idea to bring your own snacks for a quick refuel.
- Please note that the itinerary may be modified based on weather conditions to ensure the safety of customers.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Embark on an unforgettable journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mt. Etna, the most active volcano in Europe, with a convenient hotel pickup and guided tour.
- Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mt. Etna's north side, featuring pine forests, cycling trails, and stunning hikes.
- Witness the aftermath of the 2002 eruption, including the awe-inspiring lava front, lava cave, and unique side craters with seven eruptive cones in a row.
- Treat your taste buds to a feast of local cuisine, featuring starters, pasta, and desserts, accompanied by local wine and mineral water at a rustic restaurant, before returning to your Taormina hotel.
- Embark on an unforgettable journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mt. Etna, the most active volcano in Europe, with a convenient hotel pickup and guided tour.
- Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mt. Etna's north side, featuring pine forests, cycling trails, and stunning hikes.
- Witness the aftermath of the 2002 eruption, including the awe-inspiring lava front, lava cave, and unique side craters with seven eruptive cones in a row.
- Treat your taste buds to a feast of local cuisine, featuring starters, pasta, and desserts, accompanied by local wine and mineral water at a rustic restaurant, before returning to your Taormina hotel.
Inclusions
- English and Italian speaking guides
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Air conditioned 4x4 vehicle
- Short hike in the old craters
- Rustic lunch with wine included
Exclusions
- Gratuities/Tips
- Tip: Take a break from the volcano and visit the nearby Alcantara Gorge for a refreshing swim in the cool waters.
- It's recommended to wear a jacket in case of wind conditions.
- Minimum drinking age is 18 years.
- Children must be accompanied by 1 adult
- Not recommended for pregnant women.
- A moderate amount of walking is involved.
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, people with back problems.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Seated comfortably in a helicopter, soar at a thrilling height of 3,500 meters, and enjoy unparalleled views of Mount Etna and Sicily for 30 minutes.
- Spot landmarks like the Valley of Temples and marvel at Greek temples standing proud amidst the resilient landscape of Sicily.
- Soak in the impact of the 1992 eruption as you learn of the near extinction of Zafferana Etnea, surveying the transformed terrain.
- Witness an ever-changing landscape, from vineyards to smoking craters and rugged slopes, unfold beneath the helicopter's wings.
- Seated comfortably in a helicopter, soar at a thrilling height of 3,500 meters, and enjoy unparalleled views of Mount Etna and Sicily for 30 minutes.
- Spot landmarks like the Valley of Temples and marvel at Greek temples standing proud amidst the resilient landscape of Sicily.
- Soak in the impact of the 1992 eruption as you learn of the near extinction of Zafferana Etnea, surveying the transformed terrain.
- Witness an ever-changing landscape, from vineyards to smoking craters and rugged slopes, unfold beneath the helicopter's wings.
Inclusions
- 30-minute shared helicopter ride
- Coffee, tea or soft drinks
- Bottled water
- Tip: If you have a sensitive stomach or are apprehensive of heights, bring along the necessary medications.
- This experience is suitable for wheelchair users and pram/stroller users.
- This experience is not suitable for pregnant women and people with cardiovascular heart disease.
- This experience is not suitable for people weighing over 105kg.
- Children aged 4 and below are not allowed for this experience.
- This experience relies on good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather conditions a new date will be offered to you.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
CataniaMount Etna Tours
Top things to do in Catania
Mount Etna | Sicily’s majestic inferno
Fearsome and fire-breathing, Mount Etna in Sicily is a sight to behold. Its caved-in appearance is owed to the numerous eruptions it has witnessed over millennia. This renowned (and notorious) mammoth is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and the highest in the Mediterranean region. Its ever-changing landscape of smoldering craters, flowing black lava, and ancient forests offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all travelers.
If you’re travelling to Sicily, your trip isn’t complete without visiting Mount Etna. This guide explains all the different Etna tours on offer and helps find the perfect experience for you.
Why visit Mount Etna?
Soaring above Sicily, this colossal titan of fire and earth offers a kaleidoscope of experiences beckoning the adventurous, and the curious, alike. Still not convinced? Here are a few reasons why Mount Etna deserves a coveted spot on your travel bucket list:
- Geological marvel: Having existed for over 500,000 years, Mount Etna has lived (and continues to live) a rich life. It’s only over the last 2,700 years that volcanic activity has been recorded. So merely stepping foot on this ancient landscape is enough to give you goosebumps.
- Old caves, new uses: Did you know that some of Etna’s lava-formed caves have now been repurposed to store meat and wine? Caves are conducive storage spaces as they are cool yet humid, preserving flavors and preventing spoilage, and you’re sure to see a few of them on your visit.
- Trek through time, not just terrain: Weave past ancient Greek and Roman ruins nestled amidst the volcanic landscapes. Imagine Greek philosophers contemplating Etna's fury and Roman soldiers guarding its slopes as you lace up your boots and embark on a historical trek.
- Beep beep on a jeep: On a 4x4 jeep, travel to Mount Etna and traverse undulating landscapes. Stop at ancient craters and peer into their smoldering depths, marvel at towering lava fountains frozen in time.
- Volcanic vistas: Take in barren lunar-like vistas near the summit to lush forests and vineyards at its base. Overall, Mount Etna promises terrific panoramic views of the Sicilian landscape.
- Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts: All roads lead to Etna, whether you’re hitching a ride on a jeep or hiking up top. Embrace the outdoors and Etna’s beauty by appreciating the summit through different means and perspectives.
- Entrenched in Sicilian folklore: Etna is identified as the workshop of Hephaestus (Vulcan to the Romans), the god of fire and metalworking. It is also known as the residence of the nymph Aetna. It is even referred to as the home of the Cyclops Polyphemus in Homer's Odyssey.
All your Mount Etna tours explained
Treks
Ideal for: Outdoorsy adventure enthusiasts
Duration: 2-8 hours
Guide: Available
- If you want to feel fire and fury beneath your feet, choose a trekking or hiking tour. Climb to the summit and linger at caves as you wind your way through Mount Etna’s awe-inspiring terrain.
- See the craters left behind by the 2002 eruption and learn about them in detail. View snow caves, gain insights from a knowledgeable guide and more.
Recommended tickets
Jeep tours
Ideal for: Motor and adventure enthusiasts
Duration: 5-8 hours
Guide: Available
- Off-roading on volcanic terrain is a far cry from off-roading in forests or hills. On your trip, see canyons and gorges formed from lava.
- Seat yourself comfortably as you learn about Etna’s geographical and historic past. Try local wines and delicacies en route.
Recommended tickets
Transfers
Ideal for: Travelers seeking convenience
Duration: 6-8 hours
Guide: Available
- Travelling from Taormina or Catania? Guided tours from these destinations ensure you can go to and from Mount Etna in comfort and luxury.
- Sample delectable local fare, including wine, at almost 2000 m above sea level.
Recommended tickets
Wine and food tours
Ideal for: Foodies and wine connoisseurs
Duration: 6-8 hours
Guide: Available
- Sample wine that’s grown from the grapes of volcanic soil.
- Besides wine, also savor local cuisines and delicacies, liqueurs and more.
Recommended tickets
Explore Mount Etna
Valle del Bove
Silvestri Craters
Lava caves
Valle del Bove is a vast, moon-like caldron carved by ancient eruptions. Amidst a desolate landscape are fields of black ash, volcanic bombs, and bizarre lava formations. Forget the moon – feel like the first explorer on a newly discovered alien world.
These twin craters, dating back to 1892, offer close-up views of volcanic vents and fumaroles (steam vents). Hike to the rim for breathtaking panoramas and a glimpse into the volcano's fiery heart.
Descend into Etna's labyrinthine lava caves, natural wonders formed by flowing molten rock. Witness the intricate formations and feel the coolness of the volcanic earth. Meats and wines are often stored in these caves.
Things to do on Mount Etna
Climb it, of course
The vast majority of climbers utilize Rifugio Sapienza (1910 meters) as their starting point for guided hiking and trekking tours. This mountain hut on the south side of the volcano offers easy access to transportation, various tour options, and basic amenities ensuring you have a smooth climb.
Ride the cable car
When heading towards the summit, a portion of your Mount Etna tour will be spent in a cable car. The quickest way to traverse the long and sloped part of Mount Etna, your cable car ride will take you to the starting point of the trek to the summit.
Go skiing in the winter
Experience the unique thrill of skiing down Etna's snow-capped slopes in winter. Carve tracks through volcanic ash and powder, with breathtaking views of the smoldering peak as your backdrop.
Take a jeep tour
If you’re the type to admire and enjoy beauty from a distance, then the Etna jeep tours are for you. See volcanic formations, pass by craters and stop to savor local delicacies from the comfort of a 4x4 jeep.
Enjoy food and drink
Try honey produced by bees foraging on Etna's wild flowers, or indulge in "Salame di Sant'Angelo," a local salami aged in lava caves. Refuel at Rifugio Sapienza or other mountain huts serving hearty pasta dishes, grilled meats, and warm soups. Look for wines made with local grape varietals like Nerello Mascalese and Carricante.
Plan your visit to Mount Etna
Timings
Location
Tips and guidelines
Dress code
Accessibility
Safety
Eat
Stay
While there is no fixed schedule, tours to the summit typically begin at 8:30 AM and last for 5-8 hours. You can opt for a Mount Etna tour or visit certain parts of the mountain on your own.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Mount Etna includes the months of May and late September and October. Even during these shoulder months, you can expect a decent number of tourists at the location given the popularity of the attraction.
Address: 95031 Adrano, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy
Getting there
By bus: 2-5, 431N, 439, 530, 534
Nearest stop: VI Aprile Sangiuliano (1 minute away from the meeting point)
By car: You can drive down to Rifugio Sapienza. Park here and then get a ticket to a 20-seater off-road vehicle that takes you up to 8,500 feet. From here, a qualified guide can take you higher or if you choose, you can even use their services to ascend to the summit.
- Try and reach Rifugio Sapienza (the starting point and located on Etna’s southern side) by around 8:30 in the morning. While the cable car officially starts at 9 AM, the first lift sometimes begins 15 minutes earlier. If you get here on time, you’ll be able to avoid the massive crowds that generally start arriving around or after 10 AM.
- That said, maximize your exploration by taking advantage of the cable car and off-road vehicles available for ascending Mount Etna. The cable car offers a smooth ascent, and the off-road vehicles navigate the challenging terrain.
- Take the opportunity to savor the unique flavors of Mount Etna. Indulge in local delicacies, such as honey, wine, and pistachios, known for their distinct volcanic tang.
- Don’t let the fiery breath of Mount Etna fool you into thinking it’s summer year round–once you ascend the peaks, it gets quite chilly. Carrying a jacket and a hat is advisable to beat the sudden cold.
- Always stick to the paths defined by the tour guides, especially when you’re walking up or hiking. This is because the landscape is constantly changing, so going off on a detour can be dangerous.
- Goes without saying, but wearing sturdy shoes or hiking boots are a must while visiting Etna. Save those flip flops for the beach!
Due to uneven terrain and undulating lava fields, Mount Etna is not the most accessible destination on the planet. That said, there are limited provisions for wheelchair users to enjoy the volcano either on a 4x4 drive or by taking the Ferrovio Circumetnea train which circles the volcano. The Circumetnea departs from Catania and ends at Riposto.
Is it safe to visit Mount Etna? On most occasions, yes. The meteorological department is actively tracking Etna's state and will issue warnings if an eruption is about to occur. Moreover, Etna's eruptions tend to be relatively predictable, often occurring from its summit craters or new vents that open on its flanks. This means that most areas around the volcano are considered safe zones. Areas that are deemed too dangerous due to recent eruptions or volcanic activity are typically closed off to the public. However, before you visit, it is best to check whether it is advisable to visit Mount Etna during that period.
- Dolceria Salemi: Enjoy cakes, coffee, and lovely Italian food at Dolceria Salemi, about 18.4 km from Mount Etna.
- Etna Quota Mille: This rustic restaurants offers Souther Italian, Sicilian, and Mediterranean cuisine and is about 56.6 km away.
- Trattoria N'Da Calata: Whether you are looking for traditional Sicilian food, vegan or vegetarian dishes, or even a health meal, Trattoria N'Da Calata is for you and is 21 km away.
- Budget: Hotel Trieste (34 km away), 5 Balconi (35.9 km away)
- Midrange: Sciaraviva Farm Holiday (20.9 km away), Palace Catania (34.2 km away)
- Luxury: Palazzo Marletta (35.8 km away), Quattro Canti Suites (34.3 km away)
Beyond Mount Etna
Alcantara Gorge
The Alcantara Gorges, also known as Gole dell'Alcantara, are a stunning natural wonder in eastern Sicily, formed by the Alcantara River cutting through ancient lava flows from Mount Etna. The most striking feature is the towering vertical columns of black basalt rock, resembling a giant's organ pipes.
Valley of the Temples
The Valley of the Temples, or Valle dei Templi in Italian, is an extensive archaeological site in Agrigento, Sicily, boasting some of the best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece itself. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered one of Sicily's most significant cultural treasures.
Palermo Botanical Garden
The Palermo Botanical Garden is a stunning and educational oasis in the heart of the vibrant city of Palermo, Sicily. It's not just a collection of beautiful plants; it's a historical landmark, a research institution, and a haven for nature lovers seeking tranquility and knowledge.
All Your Questions About Mount Etna Tours Answered
What is Mount Etna and why is it so famous?
Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is the highest in Europe. It’s known for its unique geological formations, craters, lava caves and more.
Where can I buy Mount Etna tours?
You can purchase Mount Etna tours online. You can choose from a variety of tickets like guided tours, intercity transfers, jeep tours and more.
Why should I book Mount Etna tours online?
Buying Mount Etna tours online affords you the following advantages:
1. Guarantee: You can rest easy as your experience is assured – whether you’re choosing to go on a hike, jeep tour or wine tasting tour.
2. Variety of options: From trekking to offroading to riding a cable car, purchasing tickets online gives you a plethora of options to choose from.
3. Discounts: Grab the best deals and offers on Mount Etna tours when you book them online.
What can I do on Mount Etna?
You can choose to climb the summit, explore its craters, sit inside a comfortable jeep as you take in the terrain, go wine tasting and savor local delicacies… there’s something for everyone on Mount Etna.
Can I cancel my Mount Etna tour?
Yes, you can get a full refund on canceling your Mount Etna tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.
Who can avail discounted Mount Etna tours?
Children aged 2 and below can avail free tours. Children between the ages of 3 and 12 get discounted tickets.
Can I climb the summit Mount Etna's summit?
Yes, you can visit the Mount Etna summit but only via a guided tour.
What is the best way to reach Mount Etna?
- Traveling from Taormina or Catania are popular ways to arrive at Mount Etna. From these cities, you can either drive to Rifugio Sapienza, the southern starting point or take public transportation.
When was the last Mount Etna eruption?
The last eruption of Mount Etna happened In November 2023.