Set on the eastern coast of Sicily, Mt. Etna (Monte Etna) is among Europe’s tallest (and the world’s most active) volcanoes. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013, the volcano has shaped Sicilian history and continues to impact life on the island today. Visitors can explore the mountain’s smoldering volcanic craters and lava fields.
Guilia was our guide and she made the experience a fabulous one. She is very personable and knowledgeable. She also took all safety measures. Explained what we were seeing and provided a history of Mt Etna which enhanced my experience. Experiencing the cave, craters and walking on the lace areas is a memory I will have for life. I highly recommend this tour.
The first female tour guide so that finally I can ask to take me the cleanest toilet during the tour (the first time in Italy that I could use clean toilet) she is very friendly and deep knowledge around the area. We had a great time in both Etna and Taormina. I strongly recommend this tour. If you want to experience Etona, take a cable car!! You won’t regret!
Luka was a fantastic guide. His knowledge of Etna and the local region was very entertaining and appreciated. My teens had a blast. Sights were breathtaking and the off the beaten path locations were very cool to see.
Tour says Jeep, but it probably should say SUV. Vehicle was clean and roomy. Made for a nice drive up the mountain.
Taking photos on the crater in 50 km/h wind gusts was an experience along with climbing down into a lava tube. Mother Nature didn’t cooperate so we couldn’t go up in the cable cars or jeeps. Tasting experience was good but as with any tour that has a tasting involved they are just hoping to sell their products. Natasha our guide was fantastic!
I went on a cold rainy day in November and on the summit of Etna it was snowing quite heavily. It was a great adventure to be on the mountain and the guide was brilliant. Full of passion for the mountain and very knowledgable. Two days before it had been sunny and warm, but being in the snow felt very special! The walk is moderate and the company has some equipment to borrow, but it’s best to bring your own in this weather if you want to be comfortable. Its not jeans weather!
Mount Etna erupted just as we arrived at 2500 meters and that was spectacular.
Our guide, Natasha, was friendly, relaxed and knowledgable.
Met some very nice people from 5 countries as part of our group.
Our tour guide Denise was incredibly knowledgeable and personable. We learned not only about Sicilian wines and food but also about the rich history! The views were breathtaking and the food/wine was delicious. It was the perfect start to our trip.
My husband and I had a unique lifetime experience visiting Mount Etna. Iorga our driver and guide was wonderful. He took the time to explain and guide us through history and climbing of this amazing landmark. Will keep this memory forever. Thanks again Iorga you are the best!!!!
Mario was a great tour guide. He was very friendly and accommodating to the weather. We saw the Amalfi coast and did a 2 hour private tour of Pompeii. It was a great day.
Frequently Asked QuestionsQ:What's the best way to experience Mt. Etna (Monte Etna)?
A:
The best ways to experience Mt. Etna (Monte Etna) are:
People Also AskQ:Do you need a tour guide for Mount Etna?
A:While you can still explore much of Mt. Etna on your own and hike without a guide, tour guides can promise a safer experience and take you to the highest craters at about 10,800 feet (3,300 meters) above sea level. Without a guide, you can only reach about 9,500 feet (2,900 meters).
Q:What do you wear on top of Mount Etna?
A:During the winter and fall on Mt. Etna, you should wear heavier clothing for cold, and possibly wet, weather: a jacket, gloves, and a hat. In the spring and summer, wear comfortable walking clothing and a light jacket. No matter when you visit, always wear shoes you feel comfortable hiking in.
Q:Are there toilets on Mount Etna?
A:Yes, there are public bathrooms with toilets at Mt. Etna. You can find them at either end of the cable-car line (Funivia dell'Etna) running from the Rifugio Sapienza to the craters, at the gift shop at Montagnola, and in cafes and restaurants on the road up the mountain.
Q:Do you need hiking boots for Mount Etna?
A:Hiking boots are highly recommended for Mt. Etna as the terrain is often steep and passes over layers of volcanic sand. You can ride the cable car (Funivia dell'Etna) from Rifugio Sapienza to the lower craters and walk the paved paths without hiking boots, but taking on any trails requires sturdy shoes.
Q:How long does it take to walk up Mount Etna?
A:How long it takes to walk Mt. Etna depends on where you start. From the end of the cable car line, the hike to the summit takes about six hours round-trip, but from Piano Provenzano on the north side of the mountain, the round-trip hike to the summit can take 8–10 hours.
Q:Is Mount Etna worth it?
A:Yes, visiting Mt. Etna is worth it. It's one of Europe's tallest volcanoes, one of Italy's most unique natural attractions, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hiking to the crater is among the most popular activities in Sicily and offers unmatched views of volcanic landscapes, forests, and vineyards.