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Level
Expert
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Age
10+
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Distance
18km
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Altitude
+1600mt -1600mt
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Start
On Request (The exact time will be confirmed the evening before)
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Duration
8 hours
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Meeting point
Rifugio Citelli 1730m

Our most challenging tour, for true lovers of the mountains and significant differences in altitude, to climb the highest active volcano in Europe in small groups, on foot and without using a 4×4 or cable car.

The full walking tour starts from Rifugio Citelli (1740m), from here along a small path through beautiful specimens of Betulla Aetnensis we will visit the Serracozzo cave, one of the most scenic caves of Etna and from here we will arrive at the eastern edge of the Valle del Bove at an altitude of 2200m.

After a short break to admire the immense volcanic depression of the Bove Valley we will continue along steep paths of volcanic sand with the view of the South-East crater in front of us and the Gulf of Taormina behind us.

Once reached Piano delle Concazze (2800m) the tour will continue towards the western area of Etna. At an altitude of 3000m, after a short break to admire the western area of Etna, we will arrive on the edge of Bocca Nuova, the most imposing crater in the summit area with a deep depression and colorful sulfur sublimates.

Our tour will continue along the edge of Bocca Nuova to admire the South-East crater and the southern slope of Etna from a safe distance.

Along the edge of the summit craters we will visit the central crater and after a short but steep climb we will arrive at the top of the north-east crater at 3330m.

From here we will have a view of the eastern side of the Valle del Bove and on clear days a 360° view of the whole of Sicily.

From the top of Etna we will go down steep but easy and fun volcanic sand gullies passing through the suggestive desert area of Pizzi Deneri and always on fun sand gullies we will arrive at the starting point in Rifugio Citelli.

N.B: The tour can also be done in Trail Running mode.

Inclusions

  • Guide
  • Shoes
  • Helmet
  • Windbreaker jacket
  • Trekking poles
  • Insurance

Exclusions

  • Food
  • Water

Extras

  • Pick-up on request

Important Info

The tour may be subject to change due to bad weather conditions or an increase in volcanic activity.

This tour is intended for groups from 3 to 6 participants.

Not suitable for

Asthmatics Heart patients People with joint problems

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Getting ready for the tour

Clothing and Footwear

  • Hiking boots with good grip
  • Layered clothing to adapt to temperature changes
  • Windbreaker or K-way (provided if needed)
  • Gloves and hat (especially in colder months)

Recommended Gear

  • Trekking poles (provided if needed)
  • Lightweight backpack for personal belongings
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen for UV protection
  • Headlamp (if the tour includes cave exploration)

Food and Hydration

  • At least 1.5L of water per person
  • Energy snacks or packed lunch (if required for the tour)

Optional Accessories

  • Camera or smartphone to capture breathtaking views
  • Binoculars for observing the landscape and local wildlife

All equipment provided by the organization, such as hiking boots, trekking poles, and helmets, is included in the tour when specified.