Break at a viewpoint onto the Valle del Bove

Prices, Info & Booking

Variant 3: Etna's summit craters - up and down (ETN_C03)
ca. 8-10 hrs total / moderate-challenging

Program:

A good day's day hike: start near La Sapienza mountain station from ca. 1800 m elevation and walk a very scenic route along the dramatic west rim of the Valle del Bove up to ca. 2900 m elevation (3-4 hrs). From there, climb to the summit crater(s) (ca. 1-1.5 hrs climbing, 200-400 m difference). The exact route of ascend and which of the summit craters can be visited will depend on weather, fitness, activity etc. Spend ca. 1-2 hrs in the summit region, descend to the point of departure; short break in the 2900 m elevation area, then visit the impressive newly formed craters of the eruption in 2002-2003. Descend towards the new crater formed in the 2001 eruption and all the way back to La Sapienza along a soft sandy slope (great fun!), cross recent lava flows and craters and peer into a deep cave on the way back.

Included:

• Certified VolcanoDiscovery mountain guide

Physical requirements:

• Excellent overall fitness
• Hiking experience in mountains
• Climbing and descending of up 1500 m (ca. 5000 ft)
• Walking up and long walks downhill on partially steep, loose sandy surfaces
• No fear of heights
• No breathing or serious respiratory problems

Equipment:

• Sturdy walking or mountain boots
• Sufficiently warm clothes (especially during winter)
• Sun-, wind- and rain-protection
• Snacks and water
• Optional: walking poles (recommended!), gaiters

Optional add-ons (on request):

• Transfers from Catania, Taormina, or other locations on Sicily: price on request based on distance and nr. of pax
• Accommodation at La Sapienza: dep. on season, ca. 80-120 EUR p. double room