Linguaglossa: Mt Etna Summit Crater Hike with Optional 4×4

Discover Mount Etna’s Northern Summit Craters with a Guided Hike from Linguaglossa

This 5-hour tour offers an immersive experience on Sicily’s Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. Priced at $71 per person, the tour is led by an expert Aitne Med Etna Excursions guide and includes trekking gear and insurance. The highlight is reaching the rim of the Central Crater and the Bocca Nuova, with an optional 4×4 ride available for an additional $50 that takes you from Piano Provenzana to Piano delle Concazza.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a moderately challenging trek in a remote volcanic landscape, with stunning panoramic views from the north side of Mount Etna. It’s worth noting that the hike involves significant altitude change and steep gullies, making it better suited for active participants. It’s not recommended for children under 8 or individuals with certain health conditions, but seasoned hikers will find it rewarding and exhilarating.

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Key Points

• Price: $71 per person, with the optional 4×4 ride costing an extra $50
• Duration: approximately 5 hours including transfer and stops
• Departure point: Piano Provenzana, meeting in front of Chiosco Bar Mareneve
• Transfers: Jeep/SUV ride from Piano Provenzana (30 mins each way)
• Highlights: Summit craters, Valle del Bove, volcanic landscapes, panoramic views
• Difficulty: Medium-high, suitable for fit hiking enthusiasts
• Group size: Small groups limited to 8 participants
• Languages: Tour guides speak English, French, Italian
• Weather-dependent: The tour may change based on volcanic activity or bad weather

Starting Point at Piano Provenzana

The tour begins at Piano Provenzana, in front of the Chiosco Bar Mareneve. This is where the guide meets the group, and where the jeep or SUV transfer departs for the ascent. The meeting spot is easy to find thanks to the Aitne Volcano Guide logo. The initial transfer takes about 30 minutes to reach Piano delle Concazza at 2800 meters altitude.

The Jeep Ride to the Summit Base at Piano delle Concazza

The 4×4 vehicle ride sets the tone for the adventure, providing a fun and bumpy ascent that saves energy for the actual hike. At 2800 meters, the group begins the trek into the volcanic desert, surrounded by craters, sulphur sublimates, and volcanic formations that showcase Mount Etna’s raw power.

Hiking the Northern Slope of Mount Etna

The 1.5-hour trek takes place over rough volcanic terrain, with a desert-like landscape that features steep gullies and glistening sulphur deposits. From the rim of the Central Crater, travelers can feel the mountain’s breath and observe its deep depression and colourful sulphur sublimates up close.

This section of the hike offers spectacular views stretching from the Aeolian Islands to the Gulf of Taormina, making it a truly memorable experience. The guides provide insights into Etna’s geological activity and volcanic features, enriching the walk with expert commentary.

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Exploring Bocca Nuova, the South-East, and North-East Craters

The tour continues with scenic stops at Bocca Nuova, the South-East crater, and the North-East crater. These summit craters are viewed from a safe distance, but close enough to appreciate their size and activity. Photographers and nature lovers will appreciate the stunning crater shapes and colourful sulphur deposits that adorn the landscape.

The guides are skilled at explaining Etna’s volcanic behavior, making these stops both educational and awe-inspiring. Safety is prioritized, with proper distances maintained from active craters.

The Volcanic Valleys and Pizzi Deneri Overlook

After reaching the craters, the group descends along steep gullies of volcanic sand, leading to the Pizzi Deneri viewpoint. Here, travelers can observe the massive Valle del Bove, a spectacular caldera measuring 8 km long and 4 km wide. The outdoor scenery provides a dramatic backdrop of lava flows and volcanic formations, perfect for photos and appreciating the mountain’s geological scale.

This part of the trip combines adventure and education, as guides explain how the landscape has been shaped by frequent eruptions.

Lunch and the Downhill Trek along the Quarantore Gullys

Following a lunch break, the group sets out downhill along the Quarantore gullies. This section offers splendid views of the 2002 eruptive fracture and a flora-rich path featuring endemic plant species. The descent is less demanding physically but offers a varied landscape that contrasts sharply with the volcanic desert above.

The trek ends back at Piano Provenzana, concluding the 5-hour adventure. The entire experience balances challenging terrain with beautiful scenery and informative stops.

Practical Details: Clothing, Gear, and Reservations

Participants should wear trekking shoes and bring windproof jackets, long trousers, gloves, hats, and neck warmers to protect from gas emissions and volcanic sand. A packed lunch and at least 1.5 liters of water per person are recommended to stay hydrated and energized.

Tour groups are small, with a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention. The tour is not suitable for children under 8, or for individuals with heart problems, vertigo, or low fitness levels. It is advised for those prepared for moderate to high physical effort.

The Role of Guides and Safety Measures

The guides are known for their expertise, providing detailed explanations and ensuring safety at all times. One guide, Vincenzo, is praised for clear communication and friendly demeanor, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. Safety precautions include helmet use and trekking poles, especially given the steep terrain and volcanic activity.

Guides also inform participants about weather possibilities and potential changes in the itinerary due to volcanic activity or bad weather.

Comparing the Optional 4×4 Ride to the Trek

The $50 4×4 roundtrip adds a spectacular element to the journey, providing a fun, adventurous ascent that saves energy for the hike. Many participants find the ride an exciting highlight, though some note that it adds to the overall cost. Regardless, it offers a more comfortable way to reach the high elevations and enjoy the volcanic scenery.

Final Thoughts on the Mount Etna Summit Crater Hike

This guided tour from Linguaglossa offers an authentic and educational experience of Mount Etna’s northern craters. The combination of jeep transfer, challenging hike, and spectacular views makes it a memorable outing for active travelers who enjoy volcano landscapes.

The small group size and multilingual guides add an element of personal attention, enhancing the overall experience. While the cost of the optional 4×4 is extra, many find it well worth the additional expense for the views and comfort.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see Mount Etna’s summit craters up close, learn about volcanic activity, and enjoy breathtaking scenery. It’s a well-organized, moderately demanding adventure that balances physical challenge with spectacular natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $71 per person, with the optional 4×4 ride available for an extra $50.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is around 5 hours, including transfer, stops, and hiking.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Piano Provenzana, in front of Chiosco Bar Mareneve.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The hike is not recommended for children under 8 years old.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a volcano guide, trekking shoes, helmet, trekking poles, wind jacket, insurance, and scenic stops.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drink are not included, but a lunch break is part of the itinerary.

Is the tour weather dependent?
Yes, the itinerary can change due to bad weather or volcanic activity.

What is the difficulty level?
The difficulty is medium-high, suitable for fit hikers comfortable with steep terrain.

Can I participate if I have health issues?
It is not recommended for those with heart problems, vertigo, or low fitness.

How do I reserve my spot?
Reservations can be made online, with a minimum of 5 participants required, and full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

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