What to do and see on Etna: excursions and essential information
Etna is not only an active volcano but also a vast natural park where geology, landscapes, and culture come together in truly unique ways. If you’re planning a trip to eastern Sicily, you may be wondering how to make the most of your time on Etna, whether you have a single day or several, which trails to hike, and how high you can safely climb. The mountain offers a range of itineraries: from challenging treks for experienced hikers to accessible routes perfect for beginners. Along the way, you’ll encounter conifer forests, recent lava flows, ash fields, side craters, and breathtaking views of the Ionian coast. To enjoy the adventure to the fullest, it’s important to understand access regulations, the role of expert volcanic guides, and the best ways to pair your volcano visit with moments of seaside relaxation.
What to do on Etna: hiking, cable car rides, jeep tours, and crater adventures
Etna excursions can be adapted to suit every schedule and fitness level. On the southern side, starting from the Sapienza Refuge, it’s easy to reach the Silvestri Craters, fascinating remnants of a 19th-century eruption set in a lunar landscape. From here, the cable car and 4x4 vehicles take visitors up to 2,500–2,900 meters, where, when permitted, guided hikes set off toward the spectacular summit craters. The north side, accessible from Piano Provenzana, is perfect for nature lovers, with routes like the Sartorius Mountains and the dramatic lava flows from the 2002 eruption, ideal for immersive walks through forests and ancient lava fields. Whichever side you choose, you can enrich your adventure with visits to lava caves, which are best explored with a helmet, flashlight, and the guidance of an expert.
What to see on Etna: contrasting north and south, and staying safe at high altitude
If you’re wondering what to see on Etna, you’ll discover the volcano’s two distinct personalities. The south side is the most visited and offers stunning panoramas, like the Schiena dell’Asino trail, which leads to a natural terrace with jaw-dropping views over the Valle del Bove, a vast amphitheatre shaped by recent lava flows. The north side is more untamed, with sprawling forests, rare Etna birch trees, and accessible lateral craters, all in a quieter setting. At higher altitudes, visits to the summit craters are strictly regulated by the Civil Protection Department: entry to the most hazardous areas is permitted only with authorized volcano guides, who are up to date with the latest ordinances and experts in monitoring volcanic activity and changing weather conditions.
Where to stay: between the sea and Mount Etna: VOIhotels hospitality for couples and families
If you’d like to pair your Etna excursions in Sicily with relaxing days by the sea, VOIhotels in southeastern Sicily make a perfect home base. The VOI Marsa Siclà Essentia Resort, set amid six hectares of Mediterranean scrub near the charming seaside village of Sampieri, feels like a cozy fishing village with its whitewashed cottages, expansive pool, serene spa, and a long golden beach reached by shuttle, an intimate haven ideal for couple getaways, seeking relaxation and wellness. For families or those seeking a mix of adventure and leisure, the VOI Arenella Resort, just outside Syracuse and set on over 60 hectares of nature, offers the best of both worlds. You can alternate hiking days with time on the well-equipped beach, explore Ortygia and the nearby coastal reserves, and discover quieter stretches of sand away from the crowds.
