Mount Etna is one of Italy’s most iconic, and destructive, peaks. If you are enjoying a stay in one of our villas in Sicily, it will be a looming presence for the entirety of your time on the gorgeous island, always visible above the stunning landscape. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and the highest in Europe, Mount Etna is located on the east coast of the island and is called mongibello (beautiful mountain) by the people of Sicily. Rising above the city of Catania and the surrounding greenery, the mountain paints a striking picture of white snow against black bands of lava, burning red fires, and smoke rising overhead. Impressive, awe-inspiring, iconic, and boasting amazing views over the island and the coast, it is possible to scale this famous volcano for yourself. So, if you’re staying in one of our vacation rentals in Sicily and you are thinking about an excursion up the Beautiful Mountain, then read on:
1. Going With A Guide Is Necessary
Due to the toxic gases that the volcano often spits, limits to how high you can climb issued regularly by the Etna Park Authority, and many other elements unique to climbing Mount Etna, it is highly recommended that those looking to scale the mountain do so with a guide. Various companies in the area offer guides but Alpine Guides and Vulcanological Guides are the only ones that can take you to the summit of Mount Etna by law as they are specially trained for the potential risks involved and they collaborate with the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology). To remain safe and enjoy the experience to the fullest, don’t take any risks!
2. You May Not Always Be Able To Go
Even if you have your guide sorted and are ready for the excursion, weather conditions and volcanic activity can mean that your chosen path may be altered or the whole trip might be cancelled or postponed to another date. Try to keep this in mind so that you won’t be too disappointed if your plans are changed or totally abandoned.
3. Some People Aren’t Eligible For The Climb
It is also worth keeping in mind that the climb isn’t suitable for everyone. It is not recommended that those with heart conditions or asthma attempt the trek.
4. What You Will Need
Be sure to come prepared. To climb Mount Etna you will need: water, if not hiking boots then sneakers that go highish up the ankle, sunscreen, sunglasses, lunch and any snacks you might need for the day, long trousers, warm clothes (year around), and a backpack to contain all of the items that you might need but may not be using at every moment. Hiking poles are also useful as the softness of ash and sand under your feet can become challenging after time. Your guide will most likely also equip you with a safety helmet.
5. What The Journey Entails
If you’re approaching from the southern side, there are cable cars that will take you up to 2,500m, then there is a 4x4 bus to take you up to 2900m, where you can go on to trek to the summit, if possible, for about an hour and a half. From the northern side, you take a jeep up to 2,825m and then it’s a two hour hike from there. You can hike more of the route should you wish but as it is, with the cable car and driving portions you’re still looking at 4 to 6 hours of trekking. If you decide to forgo using the transport options, it is an intense day of hiking that likely will only interest the most committed hikers who have booked a holiday rental in Sicily. Furthermore, even if you’re not up for trekking all the way to the summit, sections of this mountain alone will give you amazing views over the island.
6. Is It A Difficult Hike?
Mount Etna is considered medium difficulty but the time of year, conditions on the day, your fitness level, and more can effect this. If you’re prepared, with your guide, in reasonable good health and fitness, then you shouldn’t have too many problems.
7. When Should I Go?
Hiking the mountain all throughout the year is possible and offers different adventures but also different challenges. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to go, summer is the busiest, and winter is the most challenging. Just book your villa in Sicily and start planning and figuring out what kind of adventure you are after...