Description
An Etna summit trek from the north side begins at Piano Provenzana, the rugged, lesser-known face of the mountain, away from the standard excursions. After a briefing and an equipment check, a special 4x4 off-road vehicle takes you up to 2,900 metres, where the walking starts. The group is limited to ten people.
From there you cross lava fields toward the summit area of Europe's highest active volcano. On the way up, the view reaches across the north and east of Sicily, out to the Aeolian archipelago and over to the coast of Calabria. How long you stay at the top depends on the volcano's activity and the weather.
The descent follows sandy gullies toward Pizzi Deneri, where a wide view of the Bove Valley opens up. The 4x4 then brings you back to Piano Provenzana. The trek can be modified according to the volcano's activity, in line with the rules for the summit area.
- volcano or alpine guide and insurance
- trekking boots, jacket and helmet
The whole outing takes about four and a half hours. The 4x4 ride is paid on the spot, and food, drinks and hotel pick-up are not included.