Climbing to the top of the Etna volcano is not technically complicated, especially in summer; the most important thing is never to underestimate the volcanic conditions. It is necessary to ensure that the volcano is in a state of calm and to be aware of the various access methods to the summit area regulated by the union ordinances in force. The situation changes if you wish to climb during the winter period or rather in the winter months (usually from December to April). In this case, the difficulties are manifold, and the following points must be taken into account:

The ascent to the Summit Craters in the winter period is performed with limited groups of maximum 4 people, through a private Alpine or Volcanological Guide service. All this to ensure optimal service and decrease exposure to risks associated with the volcanic environment.

Departures are mainly planned from the south slope, where you can take advantage of the Cableway transport from an altitude of 1900 meters to 2500 meters. From 2500 meters to 3300 meters, it is about 6 km uphill for 800 meters of positive elevation gain. The route involves crossing recent lava flows produced by the Southeast Crater, then ascending the summit cone usually covered in ice (depending on temperatures) for the last 300 meters of elevation gain. After visiting the peak with its Craters, a return walk of about 10 km on foot to the cableway at 2500 meters is planned, useful for the final return to the starting point (parking lot at 1900 m).