Trekking to the Summit Craters with Departure from Etna South – Nicolosi

Authorized Volcanological Guide

Accident insurance

€50 to be paid at the ticket office for transport: Cable car (round trip) from 1900m to 2500m + 4×4 jeep (one way) up to 2900m. [This option may not be available due to recent eruptions of the volcano that have changed the morphology of the land].

Hiking equipment 

Trekking poles

Trekking shoes

helmets

Jackets

Extra socks

Authorized Volcanological Guide

Accident insurance

€50 to be paid at the ticket office for transport: Cable car (round trip) from 1900m to 2500m + 4×4 jeep (one way) up to 2900m. [This option may not be available due to recent eruptions of the volcano that have changed the morphology of the land].

Hiking equipment 

Trekking poles

Trekking shoes

helmets

Jackets

Extra socks

Our adventure will begin from 1900 meters at 9.00 am, after one initial briefing we’ll take the cable till a height of 2500 mt. where it will start the trekking along the path that from Torre del Filosofo leads to the Summit Craters of the Etna, through the lavic fields, issued by the recent activities of the South East Crater.

After traveling for about 5 km, at a height of 3250 mt, we will reach the western portion of the summit crater terrace, where it will be possible to admire the stateliness of the Central Crater of the volcano and to understand fully the associated phenomenology. This place, rich in charm, put together the man’s curiosity and the mysterious face of the volcano.

The trekking will continue along the crater wall, before starting the downhill on the steep, but funny trip back path, constituted by ash and volcanic scoria, along the  southern portion of the summit cone, that will allow us to walk back till a height of 2500 mt for a total of 11,5 km (round-trip). Then You will come back from 2500 mt till Rifugio Sapienza (1900 mt) with the cable.

Not recommended for those who do not perform motor activities regularly.

The trekking requires a discrete preparation on a physical level. Being a path that develops at high altitude, it will be easy to accuse symptoms of fatigue. It is required attention, since it is a volcanic active area, subjected to constant gaseous exhalations and composed by a soil constituted by inconsistent and unstable rocks.

The excursion could be subjected to variations at the discretion of the Guides, or it could be interrupted in case of changes of the environmental, climatic or volcanic conditions, so as to undermine the safety of the entire group.

Because the continuous and unpredictable evolution of the volcanic activity, the excursions could undergo variations, or, in extreme cases, be cancelled, at the discretion of the guide for safety reasons.

The guides are entitled to stop the excursion for any reason that could compromise the safety and therefore the physical integrity of an individual or of the entire group.

The total time of the trekking trail will depends on the general pace.

The excursion will be carried out according to the limits laid down by the ordinance in force.

The route is also suitable for children aged 12 and over who are used to walking.

The route consists of the ascent and the walking along the crater edges, this may cause dizziness to susceptible individuals.

This type of itinerary, in relation to the type, is suited to people in good physical health, not suffering from particular diseases (cardio-vascular ones, breathing ones, or hypertension).

We recommend not to use contact lens, because of  the exhaled volcanic gases and of ash. This last one could easily cause problems, if pushed.

Pregnant women who have passed the third month of pregnancy are not allowed to take part to any excursion activity.

For the success of the excursion and for its correct carrying out, it’s good to know perfectly your health conditions and, if necessary, let the Guide know about them, in order to reduce the occurrence of any problems and to avoid any risks.

When preparing for a hike, it is essential to have the right gear to ensure safety and comfort.

Here are some helpful tips, with a focus on the top five essentials.

 Layered Clothing

Layering is key. Start with a short-sleeved shirt, followed by a long-sleeved thermal shirt, and finish with a fleece or sweatshirt. This allows you to quickly adapt to temperature changes, keeping you warm and dry.

 Trekking Shoes

Investing in a good pair of hiking shoes is essential. These shoes offer support and grip on rough terrain, reducing the risk of injury and improving your overall experience.

 Gloves and Hat

Don’t underestimate the importance of gloves and a hat, especially in the colder months. These accessories help maintain body temperature and protect against the elements.

 Windbreaker or Down Jacket

At high altitudes, wind can be a constant. A good quality windbreaker or down jacket will protect you from cold gusts, ensuring you stay warm during your adventure.

 Long Pants

Opt for long pants, preferably mountain pants, that offer protection against the elements and insects. The right choice can make a difference in your comfort during the hike.

Other Important Elements

In addition to the five essentials, don’t forget to bring with you:

Water : Make sure you have at least 1 liter of water per person to stay hydrated.

Packed Lunch : A good meal will give you the energy you need to face the day.

Snack : To keep your energy levels high during the trek.

Backpack : A 25/30 litre backpack is ideal for carrying all your essentials.

Be well prepared and enjoy your excursion safely!

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, after communicating your reservation to our number: +39 345 5741330 you will pay directly the guide who will be with you the day of the excursion.

There is no prepayment of the reservation (except for agencies, groups or private services). The guide will take you inside the office of the Funivia dell’Etna for the payment of the return tickets, just before the departure.

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.