Meeting point
La Baita 3L Ski-Lab, at Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza (Nicolosi).
Trekking · South Etna
An easy 2-hour trek across the 2001 lava flow, extinct craters and lava channels. Equipment included.
Etna · Summit craters · 3,300 m
An easy trek suitable for everyone, lasting about 2 hours: you start at 1,900 metres and climb to 2,100, with commentary on the history of Etna along the way.
We cross the 2001 lava flow — where the eruption destroyed and redrew entire slopes — passing extinct craters and lava channels, reading the volcano's power up close.
The pace is relaxed and stops are frequent: the guide pauses at the most interesting spots to explain what you are looking at — a spent cone, ropy lava, a lava channel — and to leave time for photos. No mountain experience is needed: comfortable shoes and a bit of curiosity about the volcano are enough.
It is the right route for families and for anyone visiting Etna for the first time: children who are used to walking manage it easily, and the moderate altitude makes it pleasant in every season — cooler than the coast in summer, while in winter the black lava turns white with snow and feels like another planet.
The starting point is the Rifugio Sapienza square, the heart of South Etna: the trek includes entrance to the Silvestri Craters, born in the 1892 eruption and right next to the square, which otherwise costs €5 per person; before or after you can also take the cable car towards the higher slopes. Many combine the trek with the quad tour on the same day: two different experiences that complement each other well.
The price includes all the necessary equipment: just turn up in comfortable shoes and clothing.
La Baita 3L Ski-Lab, at Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza (Nicolosi).
~2 hours · 1,900 → 2,100 m. Difficulty: easy.
Briefing with the guide, equipment check and an update from the INGV Catania volcanological bulletin.
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Want to climb all the way up?
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