Variant 4: Etna's summit craters & short mountain traverse (ETN_C04) ca. 8-9 hrs total / moderate
Program:
Transfer from Etna's south side (where your accommodation is likely to be) to Etna's north side, where a jeep brings you to around 2900 m elevation near the base of the north-east crater. Climb the summit craters from there (ca. 300 m climbing). Spend ca. 1-2 hrs in the summit region, descend on the south side to about 2900 m elevation; short break in the 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 walk to a phantastic viewpoint on the rim of the Valle del Bove. Descend 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.
Book this tour / Request more info
Included:
Certified VolcanoDiscovery mountain guide
Jeep transfer to the start of the trail at about 2900 m elevation on the north flank
Transfer from La Sapienza, Nicolosi or nearby places to north side of Etna
- alternatively, transfer back to your point of departure on the north side of etna (near Linguaglossa)
Physical requirements:
Good overall fitness
At least some hiking experience in mountains
Climbing of about 300 m and descending of up 1400 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 functional clothes (especially during winter)
Daypack
Flashlight
Sun-, wind- and rain-protection
Snacks and water
Recommended: extra shirt to change, 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
