With its height of 3,329 meters above sea level, Etna towers proudly over the Mediterranean Sea. This more than 500,000-year-old volcano is powerful, magnificent and awe-inspiring.
Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Eruptions are a source of interest and challenge for scientists, tourists and locals alike. Although the volcano is constantly active, its eruptions usually pose little danger. There is no cause for concern, as the eruptions are concentrated at the top of the volcano and do not usually cause harm or danger to visitors or locals.
🌋 VISITING ETNA
Rifugio Sapienza (1900 meters) - highest point accessible by car
Rifugio Sapienza is an excellent starting point for exploring Etna. This tourist complex is located at an altitude of almost 1,900 meters, and it is the highest point that can be reached by CAR.
By car: directons to this location https://goo.gl/maps/DHyF8btyFEzdfZcq7
Ample parking is available, but during the peak tourist season, it's worth arriving early to secure your spot.
2. By public transport: For those who rely on public transport, buses depart from the city of Catania to Rifugio Sapienza at 8:15 in the morning, the trip is about 2 hours by bus and it is worth buying a ticket in advance, because there is a lot of interest in the summer..
Silvestri Craters
After parking, it's definitely worth climbing the Silverstri craters (you can't miss them, because they're next to the parking lot). Two impressive volcanic craters on the side of Etna. These twin craters, known as Silvestri Superiore and Silvestri Inferiore, allow visitors to view the volcanic power up close, the impressive rock formations and the stunning panorama of the surrounding landscape.
Reaching the summit of Etna:
Although a visit to Rifugio Sapienza is a fantastic experience, the true wonder of Etna lies at its peak. To achieve this, there are two options:
Cable car + off-road vehicles: From the Rifugio Sapienza, you can take the cable car to a height of 2,500 meters.
From there you can transfer to specialized off-road vehicles, usually operated by the cable car company. These vehicles are suitable for climbing the steep terrain of the mountain, they can take you closer to the peak up to 2750 meters.
Official info & prices here: https://www.funiviaetna.com/en/excursion-info-prices/
2. Guided climbing tours: those who like a challenge and are in good shape, can climb Etna's peak. This is an experience of a lifetime, but it definitely requires preparation, as the tour is a whole day and must be booked in advance. The summit can only be reached with experienced and licensed mountain guides (it is forbidden to climb to the summit by yourself, as the volcanic gases and the terrain are also dangerous).
Valle del Bove lookout point https://goo.gl/maps/9cFSrPghpjuLqQtX7
If you are looking for a nice view that is easily accessible by car, then this is an easy drive after Rifugio Sapienza. From here you get a great view of the ‘Valle del Bove’ valley, where the lava has flowed for centuries - it is essentially a cooled lava river.
IMPORTANT: google maps will take you to the northern entrance, but do not enter there, because the middle section of the road is closed. Drive in here from the southern point of the road: https://goo.gl/maps/Kh8d8XFzKs4wrNrs7
🥾 HIKING ON ETNA
Moderate climbing with a beautiful view - Schiena dell'asino https://goo.gl/maps/aSEjgzYnkRC1uxok8
If you don't want to climb to the top of Etna, but you want to hike a bit and are looking for a nice view, you will really like this 3 km hike. From here you can see the smoking peak of Etna. Overall, the hike is of medium difficulty, but the beginning will be a bit steep, so don't hate me :) I promise, after the first half, it's not steep anymore and the view is worth it. If you're already visiting an active volcano, don't miss a bit of mountain climbing.
Difficult climb with breathtaking views - Serracozzo https://goo.gl/maps/YHgif2shcLFk1oCY6
In all honesty, I only recommend this tour to those who regularly climb mountains or in a good physical shape. This is an 8 km (4 km there - 4 km back) long hike and 500 meters of elevation gain. However, the view is breathtaking...
This hiking trail can only be climbed between April and October. Make sure to be careful and bring water and food with you.
We use the Alltrails application for most of our hikes. Important: download and search for everything before going up the mountain because there is no cellular signal on Etna.
Serracozzo kilátó pont
When should we visit Etna?
Etna is a wonderful all year round and can be visited in all seasons.
Moderate weather is typical in spring and autumn, the average temperature ranges between 5°C in the higher altitudes, and the summit is covered with snow.
In summer, the temperature at the foot of the mountain can be up to 20-25°C, while in the higher parts it is around 10°C.
In winter, however, the weather is cold and very windy, and the temperature drops to negative degrees in the higher altitudes, so the peak cannot be climbed in winter, and it is recommended to use snow chains on cars when driving to the Rifugio. Winter offers skiing opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts.
Important Tips:
Etna's weather can change quickly, so be prepared for hot and cold weather conditions. Wear layered clothing and durable hiking shoes. Applying sunscreen is always recommended, even if the weather is cloudy, because you are closer to the sun at an altitude of 2,000 meters and it is easy to get sunburned.
It is recommended to check the current volcanic activity and safety conditions before planning a visit. If the volcano shows increased activity, some areas may be off limits to tourists.
Respect the environment and follow the guidelines set by the authorities to preserve Etna's natural beauty for future generations.
