Nicolosi

Jeep & 4WD Tours

Ascend to the summit of the craters of Mount Etna, one of the most coveted excursions a hiker can make. Hike in full safety with an authorized alpine and volcano guide, and marvel at the beauty and wonder of the highest active volcano in Europe.   Depart from Sapienza Refuge in Nicolosi, and ascend 2,504 meters by cable car. Then, ride in a 4x4 Jeep up to 2,900 meters, to begin your hike. You’ll hike 1.5 hours uphill, passing many craters and taking long pauses to take pictures and rest. Experience the incredible feeling of being on top of the world in this rocky, beautiful landscape with the giant sky above you. After reaching the summit, descend for 2 hours back to the cable car, which will take you to your departure point.

Put your walking shoes on and head off on a sights-filled trekking adventure around Mount Etna for experienced hikers. Discover the history and symbolism of the area and immerse yourself in its striking natural scenery. Ascent with special off-road vehicles along the panoramic street on the northern side of the volcano to a height of 2,825 mt. From this point, you'll start the ascent by walking for 4 kilometers on a path surrounded by volcanic scoria and bombs. The total climb uphill is 470 mt until you arrive at the edge of the Central Crater of Etna at a height of 3,300 mt. Once there, stop to admire the greatness, uniqueness, and processes of the volcanic environment. Enjoy the view from the roof of Sicily (visibility can change according to the weather or volcanic conditions). Then, start the downhill journey on soft scoria and volcanic ashes, passing through Piano delle Concazze (at 2,750 mt, the base of the Volcanological Observatory). Continue inside of one of the sandy, big channels, characteristic of the north-east side of the volcano and surrounded by endemic plants and seasonal torrents. Reach the downhill path and the beech forest up to Piano Provenzana, the arrival point of the excursion. The total time of the trekking trail is 6-7 hours and the total kilometers (round-trip) is 11.2 km or about 7 miles (may vary). The difficulty level is E (experienced hikers). The maximum altitude reached is 3,300 mt and the minimum altitude reached is 1,800 mt. The difference in height is 470 mt (may vary) and the difference in downhill is 1,500 mt (may vary).

This day trip begins with a drive up to Rifugio Sapienza, with stops at viewpoints en route. The guide will provide commentary on the volcano's history and point out sites of previous eruptions. Trek along one of the nature paths up to 2,000 meters or take the Etna high altitude option. For the high altitude option, ride a cable car and special 4x4 minibus to Torre del Filosofo, at 2,900 meters. Afterwards, explore a lava cave, equipped with a helmet and flashlight. The final stop will be at one of the area’s top wineries, with a tasting session that includes a sparkling wine and 4 still wines. During the tasting session, enjoy local cold cuts, cheeses, pate and olive oil.

From the meeting point at Funivia dell'Etna, you’ll start the day by catching the cable car and bus to the trailhead. After trekking for about 2 kilometers, you will reach the western portion of the summit crater terrace where it is possible to admire the stateliness of the Central Crater. The trekking will continue along the crater wall before starting downhill on the steep path constituted by ash and volcanic scoria along the southern portion of the summit. Complete the extraordinary journey back to Rifugio Sapienza by cable car.

Learn about the biology and geology of the Etna Volcano on this guided 8-hour tour. Wander around and explore the area's pathways surrounded by nature which has grown upon several dormant craters. The fauna and flora of Etna provides a stunning backdrop for this tour as you discover the fascinating surroundings including an exciting cave exploration. Then, relax with a wine tasting session and enjoy the flavors of the volcano as you try the region's liqueurs, honey and more. With Etna behind you, it's time to explore the beautiful Alcantara Gorges which were formed from lava and are among the most famous in the world. Next, cross the river, which is lined with basalt walls as high as 50 meters, and enter the wonderful natural setting of the Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park.

Enjoy a hike along one of the lesser-followed trails on Mount Etna and discover the region's spectacular wildlife. After getting picked up from your hotel in Catania, head to the trailhead and begin your trek. See everything from lush woods to volcanic deserts. Admire some of the local flora (such as poplars, beeches, birches, chestnuts, oaks and pine trees) and fauna (such as buzzards, hawks, eagles, foxes, wild rabbits) of the volcano. During the hike, stop for a short picnic lunch composed of local products. Finish your trek with a visit to a lava cave and explore the cave with the torches and helmets provided.