Attention

This excursion is available in exceptional cases when it is not possible to ascend to high altitudes with 4x4 vehicles. During normal periods, please refer to the alternative excursions listed at the bottom of the page.

Visit to the great 2002 craters with off-road vehicle + trekking

Trekking to the 2002 craters at Piano Provenzana

Prices

Adults €50 per person
Children (under 12 years) €40 per person

Info & Bookings

Description

Discover one of the most fascinating landscapes of Europe’s highest active volcano with an excursion on Mount Etna North, combining the thrill of 4x4 transport with a suggestive trek among craters and lava flows.

Departures are scheduled every day from Piano Provenzana, between 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM, with accompaniment to the areas affected by the great 2002 eruption, one of the most significant events of recent decades.

During the first stop, it will be possible to observe the ruins of the Hotel delle Betulle, the only still-visible testimony among the structures destroyed by the October 2002 lava flow.

Excursions with 4x4 jeep from Piano Provenzana

Upon reaching an altitude of 1900 meters, the guided trek among lava flows and explosive deposits will begin, featuring a loop trail that allows walking along the edges of the lateral craters, characterized by the typical "button-row" morphology, proper to Etna's flank eruptions.

During the winter period, the trail may be snowy or icy and subject to variations based on weather and volcanic conditions.

⚠️ Important: The descent on foot to Piano Provenzana is not available in winter, for safety reasons related to the presence of snow, ice, and possible variations in the volcanic terrain.

Program and Details

10:00 AM – Meeting at Piano Provenzana
10:30 AM – Departure with 4x4 vehicles (altitude 1800 m)
Transfer and panoramic stops
Start of guided trek among eruptive fractures and craters up to approx. 2040 m
Short stretch on volcanic sand / Not available in case of deep snow
Return by 4x4 vehicle to the starting point

Minimum altitude 1900 m
Maximum altitude 2050 m
Elevation gain/loss 150 m
Total duration 1h:30 / 2h
Total distance 2.5 Km
Difficulty T (Tourist)

Equipment

➡️ It is mandatory to wear:

• Suitable trekking shoes (preferably waterproof)
• Technical layered clothing
• Windbreaker or down jacket
• Water – minimum 1.5 L

Possibility to rent boots/jacket on site.

Warnings

Volcanic terrain is often inconsistent and requires attention. Not recommended for those who do little physical activity.
The excursion may undergo variations at the discretion of the Guides for safety reasons.
Not recommended for those suffering from vertigo, cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, or hypertension.
The use of contact lenses is not recommended due to gas and ash.
Not allowed for pregnant women beyond the third month.
Suitable for children over 6 years of age.

Excursions during normal periods

Discover our recommended alternatives when the ascent to high altitudes is not subject to exceptional variations.

2002 Craters and Button-row Etna North

Trekking to discover the 2002 button-row, the hornitos, and the spectacular eruptive fractures of 1911 and 1923.

Find out more

Etna North Excursion altitude 3000

An exciting tourist experience on the northern slope of the volcano to reach the impressive altitude of 3000 meters.