Description
The Mount Etna summit crater trek is led by a volcanologist guide. You meet at the local partner's office, across from the southern Etna cableway station. At the top of the cable car a 4x4 drives over moon-like ground to Torre del Filosofo, 2,850 m, and the walking starts there.
The path leads to the edge of Bocca Nuova, at 3,300 m, a crater that appeared in 1968. On the rim you get a full 360-degree panorama, and with good weather you can see the Aeolian Islands and most of northern Sicily.
Coming down, you pass the craters left by the 2002 eruption and slide along a stretch of volcanic sand toward the Valle del Bove, a caldera measuring 8 km by 4 km. A lava tunnel is also on the programme. The cable car takes you back to where you began.
- Guide, boots, walking sticks, wind jacket and helmet
- Insurance, plus free parking while spaces last
Dress warmly with long trousers, since the weather can turn fast. Hotel pickup is not included, so come by car or ask the organizer about a transfer. Volcanic risk or weather can alter the route. The trek is not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, people with a low level of fitness, or anyone with heart or breathing problems.