attribute_pa_level
Level
Intermediate / Expert
attribute_pa_age
Age
10+
attribute_pa_distance
Distance
16km
attribute_pa_altitude
Altitude
+800mt -800mt
attribute_pa_start
Start
08:00 (The exact time will be confirmed the evening before)
attribute_pa_duration
Duration
7 hours
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Meeting point
Piano Provenzana – AITNE Mobile Office

The excursion to “Grotta del Gelo” lasts about 7/9 hours; although it is not an excursion that requires technical skills, it is reserved for those who have a good physical condition and suitable equipment. It is recommended for those who want to spend a whole day into Etna’s big silences.

“Grotta del Gelo” (Ice Cave) is the most famous cave (lava tube) of Etna, so called because permanent ice can be found inside.

Situated at an altitude of 2030 m, it is located in Randazzo village territory. Since the early seventies it’s conical entrance is a destination not only for hikers and tourists but also for experts and scientists. Previously it was used by shepards to water the flocks. The landscapes crossed during the excursion are of rare beauty: from fresh beech forest to wonderful natural sculptures of the endless pahoehoe lava field of 1614-24 eruption.

Different routes are available, every one of them can be faced up as a loop hike.

Inclusions

  • Guide
  • Shoes
  • Helmet
  • Windbreaker jacket
  • Backpack
  • 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.

The price refers to groups of at least 5 persons; otherwise ask for a quotation.

Not suitable for

Asthmatics Heart patients People with joint problems

Media Gallery

Grotta del Gelo
Grotta del Gelo
Grotta del Gelo
Grotta del Gelo
Grotta del Gelo
Grotta del Gelo
Grotta del Gelo
Grotta del Gelo

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.