Etna North
An adventure among craters, lava caves, and lunar landscapes
Duration: Half day
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Departure: From your accommodation or agreed-upon meeting point
Price: 65€ per person, min. 2 pax.
Are you thinking of organizing your next holiday in Taormina and perhaps want to experience a fantastic adventure? Without a doubt the excursion to Etna is one of the most beautiful nature experiences you can have on this splendid island.
Near Giardini Naxos and Taormina, the highest active volcano in Europe stands out at 3300 meters high on the eastern coast of the island. A hilltop that accompanies the journey of those who venture into the eastern part, between the Ionian Sea and the Sicilian hinterland.
This unmissable tour of Etna will take us to discover the most fascinating and evocative landscapes of the entire volcano. During this adventure we will discover woods, lava flows as far as the eye can see and indispensable volcanic caves where we will enter with helmets and torches to discover their history and their formation.
Of all the excursion offers on Etna departing from Taormina, this tour is ideal for families, couples and finally for groups of friends who want to experience an unforgettable adventure.
Tour program
– Transfer to Etna North
We set off towards the volcano’s north face, passing through ever-changing scenery: from the dry-stone walls of the Etna countryside to the high-altitude pine forests, with views of Etna’s majestic profile.
– First stop – Caruccio Cave
We reach one of the most characteristic lava flow caves in the area. After a brief geological introduction, we enter the cave on foot to observe the unique shapes created by the flowing lava up close. We’ll discover how these underground tunnels form during eruptions, in a cool, quiet environment that reveals the volcano’s history.
– Second stop – Stop at the Ragabo Refuge
A short stop at the Ragabo Refuge, nestled in a splendid pine forest. Here, you can relax for a few minutes, use the restrooms, take photos, or purchase some typical products from the small nearby kiosks (weather permitting).
– Third Stage – 2002 Lava Flow
We continue towards the lava flow that destroyed the ancient tourist resort of Piano Provenzana in 2002. We’ll walk along the edge of the solidified lava, among black rocks, ash, and plants that are slowly reclaiming the land. The guide will explain the impact of the eruption and the incredible regenerative power of the volcano.
– Panoramic Trek to the Sartorius Mountains (about 1.5 hours)
We embark on one of the most scenic trails in the Etna Park. The Sartorius Mountains are seven small lateral craters formed during the 1865 eruption. The circular trail winds through groves of Etna birch trees (a unique species), lava formations, lichens, and spectacular views of the Ionian Sea. The elevation gain is minimal, making it suitable even for those with little experience.
– Lunch break in Piano Provenzana
At the end of the trek, we stop in Piano Provenzana, a tourist resort located at 1,800 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy a packed lunch brought from home or purchase hot sandwiches, granitas, and local products at local kiosks (at your expense). Free time to relax in the shade of the pine trees or explore the surrounding area.
– Return to the hotel
In the early afternoon, we return to the starting point, with our minds filled with volcanic images and unforgettable views.
✅ What's included
- Round-trip transportation from your hotel or meeting point
- Expert nature guide
- Insurance
🧭 What to bring
- Scarpe da trekking o da ginnastica robuste
- Abbigliamento a strati (in quota può fare fresco anche in estate)
- Acqua (almeno 1 litro a persona)
- Pranzo al sacco o contanti per i chioschi
- Cappello, occhiali da sole e crema solare
Availability and excursion times
- This tour runs all year round
- Everyday
- Departure to be agreed together between 8.30/9.00 am - return 3.00/3.30 pm.
Details
How we meet
- The guide will come to pick you up by jeep or nine-seater minibus directly from your accommodation or in another agreed location (Taormina and surrounding areas).
- Etna distance from Taormina: 43 km
- Etna distance from Giardini Naxos: 33 km
