North Craters 12km

Summit Craters of Etna North 12 Km

An intense and adrenaline-filled excursion into the heart of Europe’s highest active volcano. The 12km Etna North Summit Craters trail takes you to Etna’s summit area and offers a long and thrilling descent along the famous sandy gullies.
This experience is perfect for those who enjoy a challenge and want to tackle a true high-altitude trek, immersed in spectacular views and accompanied by an expert volcanologist guide .

Details of the Etna North Summit Craters Excursion 12 km:

Included in the excursion price

Authorized volcanological guide
Accident insurance
Ascent by 4×4 vehicle (one way) from 1800 m to 2825 m
Trekking poles
Protective helmets
Trekking shoes
Jackets
Extra socks

Etna North Summit Craters itinerary 12 km

The route

The initial ascent takes place aboard special 4×4 vehicles , following the panoramic road on the volcano’s north side up to an altitude of 2,825 meters. From here, the ascent on foot begins: approximately 5 km of walking on a volcanic trail, among bombs and lava scoria, with an elevation gain of approximately 490 meters.

Once we reach the rim of Etna’s Central Crater , at an altitude of 3,315 metres, a stop is planned to observe the volcanic environment and enjoy the panorama from the roof of Sicily, weather conditions and gas emissions permitting.

Warning: The descent is the most challenging part of the hike. It involves approximately 1,500 meters of elevation gain, from 3,300 meters to 1,800 meters, and is strongly discouraged for those with joint problems, especially knee problems.

The return journey follows soft volcanic scoria and ash, crossing Piano delle Concazze, the base of the Volcanological Observatory, and one of the large sandy gullies on the northeast slope, surrounded by endemic vegetation and seasonal streams.
Arrival is expected near the beech forest above Piano Provenzana, the hike’s final destination.

IMPORTANT WARNINGS

What you need to know before you go:

This activity is not recommended for those who do not regularly practice physical activity.
Route in an unstable volcanic environment, caution is required
The excursion may be subject to changes or interrupted for safety reasons.
Duration varies depending on the pace of the group
Activities carried out in compliance with current ordinances
Children aged 13 and over are admitted.
Possible dizziness along the crater rims

Attention:

Strongly discouraged for people with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, hypertension, obesity, or psychological disorders.

Contact lenses are not recommended for gas and volcanic ash.

Not permitted for pregnant women after the third month of pregnancy.

Plan a safe and comfortable excursion

Layered clothing
Trekking shoes
Windbreaker or down jacket
Gloves and hat
Snack or packed lunch
At least 1.5 liters of water
Trekking poles
K-way or waterproof jacket
25/30 litre backpack
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Spare socks and shirt
Long trousers
Handkerchiefs or bandanas for dust and gas

You should know that…

In case of adverse weather conditions, you will be promptly notified
You must leave a valid contact information when booking.
No advance payment (except groups or agencies)
Payment will be made directly to the guide on the day of the excursion
In case of many requests, participants will be divided into subgroups, each accompanied by a qualified volcanological guide, also based on the languages spoken.

Book your excursion to the summit craters

If you’d like to experience one of the most intense experiences on Mount Etna, fill out the contact form and request availability for the Etna North Summit Craters 12 km excursion .
We’ll provide you with all the information you need to best organize your high-altitude trek with a volcanological guide .

Request information

If you’d like to join one of the guided excursions or receive more details, please fill out the form.
I’ll help you choose the experience that best suits your needs.