Viator Rating : 5 (82 reviews)
Sicily
Etna North Slope Hike: Easy Family Adventure
300
Overview
Easy North Etna Hike offers a fantastic half-day adventure on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. This excursion is perfect for families, beginners, and anyone wanting an exciting yet accessible experience on Etna. It's an easy hike suitable for adults and children, even young ones.
Accompanied by a volcanologist guide who speaks French, the group (limited to 8 people) will explore the fascinating northern slope within the protected area of Etna Park. The hike includes exploring ancient craters, lava flows from different eras, and even a lava tunnel. One can witness the largest birch forest of Etna and hike the 1865 lava flows toward the 8 Sartorius craters.
Key highlights include hiking among a series of aligned craters, visiting a lava tunnel equipped with helmets and torches, and enjoying panoramic views of Etna, the Ionian Sea, the coast from Riposto to Naxos, and Calabria. The approximately 3-hour hike has a modest elevation gain of 100m (+/-). 
Highlights
Hike Etna's North Side: Enjoy an easy hike on the northern slope of Mount Etna, perfect for all fitness levels.
Explore Sartorius Craters: Hike with a French-speaking guide through a set of 8 craters in line.
Discover a Lava Tunnel: Explore a 50-meter lava tunnel with provided helmets and torches.
See Breathtaking Views: Witness panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, the coast, and Calabria.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors love the knowledgeable and passionate guides.
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Many enjoyed the beautiful views and diverse landscapes.
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Customers highlight the easy and manageable hike for all fitness levels.
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Families appreciate that it is kid-friendly and fun for all ages.
Some reviewers mentioned that the provided equipment could be improved.
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A few people felt the tour was slightly shorter than expected.
The Journey
North Slope of Etna
The northern slope of Etna, within the protected area of Etna Park, is known for its diverse landscapes, including the largest birch forest on Etna. It provides a gentler hiking experience suitable for all ages.
Sartorius Craters
A set of 8 aligned craters formed during the 1865 eruption. Hiking to these craters offers insights into Etna's volcanic history and stunning panoramic views.
Etna Lava Tunnel
A 50-meter long lava tunnel formed by ancient lava flows. Visiting this tunnel with helmets and torches provides a unique underground exploration experience.
1865 Lava Flows
The solidified lava flows from the 1865 eruption offer a stark and fascinating landscape to hike across, providing a close-up view of the volcano's power and geological processes.
Know Before You Go
This Easy North Etna Hike includes hiking sticks, a helmet, a backpack, and k-ways. Lunch and breakfast are not included. Participants will meet at a designated location on the north side of Etna. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear like hiking shoes.
Hot Tip
Reviewers recommend wearing layers, as the weather on Etna can change quickly. Also, bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea, even though the hike is not overly strenuous.
Review Summary
People find this Hiking Etna North tour highly enjoyable and educational, praising the knowledgeable and passionate French-speaking guides who provide detailed explanations of Etna’s geology and history. The small group size is appreciated for creating a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention. Positive highlights include the unique experience of exploring quiet lateral craters and lava tunnels, making it ideal for families with children aged six and above. Some reviewers note the physical demands as moderate and warn that weather conditions on the volcano can be unpredictable, recommending appropriate clothing. There are occasional mentions of the extra costs for equipment or transport like 4x4 vehicles, which are not included in the base price but are necessary for full access. Overall, it is recommended for those seeking an immersive and less crowded Etna hiking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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