Etna North Summit Craters Excursion with 4×4 Vehicles (Round Trip)

Authorized Volcanological Guide

Accident insurance

4×4 vehicle ticket ( round trip  from 1800m to 2960m and from 2825m to 1800m)

Hiking equipment needed

Trekking poles

Helmets

Trekking shoes

Padded jackets

Extra socks

Departures scheduled by Piano Provenzana every day by reservation at 8:00AM and at 13:00PM (if weather conditions allow).

On board special 4×4 vehicles you will climb along the panoramic road of the north side of Etna through ancient craters and recent lava flows up to an altitude of 2960 meters.

Subsequently the ascent of 3km on foot will begin on a path made up of bombs and volcanic slag. The difference in altitude to be covered uphill will be 330 meters until you reach the real Central Crater of Etna, at an altitude of 3300 meters, during the climb you will take breaks (for explanations and refreshments).

Once at the summit, we stop to admire the grandeur and uniqueness of the volcanic environment, the processes connected to it and the spectacular view from the roof of Sicily (visibility may vary depending on the weather or volcanic conditions).

The 2km descent will take place along the same route taken uphill, only the last stretch will take place inside small channels made up of soft and friable volcanic slag, on which it is possible to walk easily without major problems by adopting the necessary precautions.

Returning to an altitude of 2825 meters you will board the 4×4 vehicles for the return to Piano Provenzana.

Departures scheduled when a minimum of 4 people are reached

Trekking is not recommended for those who do not regularly perform physical activity.

The excursion requires good physical preparation, as it is a route that develops at high altitude, it will be easy to experience symptoms of fatigue.

Caution is required as the soil is volcanic and often loose and unstable.

The excursion may be subject to changes at the discretion of the Guides or be interrupted if environmental, atmospheric or volcanic conditions change, which could compromise the safety of the entire group.

The total duration of the trek will depend on your pace.

The excursion will take place within the limits set by the ordinances in force.

Also suitable for children aged 13 and over.

The route includes climbing and passing along the crater rims, which could cause vertigo problems for sensitive individuals.

This itinerary, in relation to the type and altitude, is suitable for people in good physical health, who do not suffer from particular pathologies ( strongly not recommended for those who suffer from problems  : cardiovascular, respiratory or hypertension).

Activity not suitable for people suffering from obesity.

Not recommended for those suffering from mental illnesses (psychiatric or psychological) with emotional and/or behavioral disorders.

We do not recommend the use of contact lenses because of the gases released by the volcano and the ash which, if blown, could easily cause problems.

Pregnant women who are past the third month of pregnancy are not permitted to engage in any type of hiking activity.

To ensure the success of the excursion and the correct performance of the activity, it is good practice to know your health conditions perfectly and to make them known to the Guide, if necessary, all this to reduce the onset of any problems and avoid running risks.

Tips for a Perfect Hike

When preparing for a hike, it is essential to have the right equipment to ensure comfort and safety. Here is a list of essentials to consider:

Clothing

Layering  : Wear a short-sleeved shirt paired with a thermal or long-sleeved shirt, depending on the season. This allows you to easily adapt to changes in temperature.

Long trousers  : Choose durable and comfortable trousers, ideal for trekking.

Windbreaker or down jacket  : essential to protect you from the cold and wind.

Accessories

Gloves and hat  : Essential, especially in spring and autumn, to maintain warmth.

Sunglasses  : Protect your eyes from UV rays during sunny hikes.

Sunscreen and cocoa butter  : essential for protecting your skin and lips from sun damage.

Equipment

Hiking shoes  : Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes that are suitable for trails.

Trekking poles  : These can help you maintain balance and reduce fatigue.

K-way (waterproof jacket)  : Useful in case of sudden rain.

Supplies

Breakfast and Snack  : Bring a nutritious breakfast and energy snack to recharge your batteries along the way.

Water  : Make sure you have at least 1.5 liters of water per person to stay hydrated.

Spare socks and a spare t-shirt  : useful in case of sweat or rain.

Backpack

25/30 L Backpack  : Choose a roomy but lightweight backpack that can hold everything you need without weighing you down.

Extra

Handkerchiefs or bandanas  : Useful to protect yourself from dust or volcanic gases in some areas.

By following these tips, you will be ready to face your adventure with safety and comfort.

Contact us if you have any other doubts

• In the event of adverse weather conditions, we will advise you in order to communicate the cancellation or postponement of your excursion, at the earliest possible date.
• There is no advance payment for the reservation (except for agencies, groups or private services), after communicating your reservation to our number: +39 345 5741330 you will pay directly the guide who will be with you on the day of the excursion.
• In case of many requests, the participants will be divided into smaller groups with different guides, according to the languages in order to avoid the formation of large groups of people.