Excursion to Summit Craters With Lunch and Wine Tour

Scaling the heights of an active volcano is an exhilarating prospect for many adventure-seekers. This excursion to the summit craters of Mount Etna promises an unforgettable experience, blending stunning natural vistas with delectable regional cuisine and wine tastings. From the scenic cable car ride to the thrilling Jeep journey and guided hike, every step of this 7-hour tour is carefully curated to immerse participants in the grandeur of this iconic Sicilian landmark. With a focus on safety and an experienced team of guides, this excursion caters to nature enthusiasts and food lovers alike, offering a unique opportunity to discover the captivating fusion of Etna’s volcanic wonders and Sicily’s renowned culinary delights.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Tours In Nicolosi.

Key Points

• A 7-hour guided excursion that includes a cable car ride, Jeep/SUV transport, and a hike to the summit craters at 3000 meters.
• A 2-hour lunch with wine tasting, cheese tasting, and regional food, providing a culinary experience alongside the scenic tour.
• Safety features like briefings, helmets, and insurance coverage ensure a secure and enjoyable journey for participants.
• Not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or those susceptible to altitude sickness due to the physical demands.
• Recent reviews highlight the exceptional guiding, breathtaking photo opportunities, and overall unforgettable experience of the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The excursion to the summit craters of Mount Etna typically lasts 7 hours, beginning at the Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza.

Participants ride a cable car up to 2500 meters, then trek to the summit craters at 3000 meters.

The guided tour includes sightseeing and 4 hours of hiking. Visitors can expect a safety briefing, cable car rides, and a Jeep/SUV ride to a photo stop before returning via cable car.

The experience also includes a 2-hour lunch with wine tasting, cheese tasting, and regional food.

The tour is led by volcanological guides and includes a helmet, insurance coverage, and a waterfall memory picture.

Pricing and Reservation

The pricing for this excursion starts from $94.65 per person. A reserve now and pay later option is available.

Guests can cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The ticket price includes the cable car and 4×4 transport to 2800 meters – costing 78€, with children under 4 free and 5-10 years old paying 50€.

Itinerary Details

A safety briefing kicks off the itinerary, lasting a mere 5 minutes.

Next, you will embark on a 20-minute cable car ride, followed by a 20-minute Jeep/SUV ride. The journey includes a 10-minute photo stop, allowing visitors to capture breathtaking views.

Afterwards, the return trip via cable car takes 30 minutes. The excursion culminates with a 2-hour lunch featuring wine tastings, cheese samplings, and regional delicacies.

The itinerary provides:

• Volcanological guidance throughout the experience
• Helmets for safety
• Insurance coverage
• Opportunities to savor local products
• A cherished waterfall memory picture.

Included Features

Volcanological guidance accompanies participants throughout the experience, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the geological features encountered.

Safety is paramount, with helmets provided to protect guests during the hike. Insurance coverage offers additional peace of mind.

Beyond the educational aspect, the tour includes a delightful wine tasting, showcasing local vintages, as well as a sampling of typical regional products.

As a memento of the adventure, participants receive a waterfall memory picture, capturing the stunning scenery.

This all-inclusive excursion seamlessly blends exploration, culinary delights, and stunning vistas, delivering an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the wonders of Mount Etna.

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Important Information

Not everyone is well-suited for this excursion. It’s not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, those with altitude sickness, or individuals over 75.

Guests should come prepared with the right gear, including:

• Sturdy hiking shoes for the rugged terrain
• Hiking pants to protect against the elements
• Trekking gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience

Plus, bringing snacks is advised, as alcohol, drugs, and bare feet aren’t allowed.

The tour is conducted in Italian and English, providing a comprehensive experience for all participants.

With these guidelines in mind, adventurers can embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit craters of Mount Etna.

Safety Considerations

Safety is of paramount importance when embarking on this excursion to the summit craters of Mount Etna. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those prone to altitude sickness. Participants over 75 are also advised against joining the trek.

Proper hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and trekking pants, is essential. Bringing snacks and water is recommended, but alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited. A safety briefing is provided at the start of the tour, and a guide will lead the group, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.

Helmets are provided for added protection during the hike. With these precautions in place, visitors can safely enjoy the stunning views and volcanic wonders of Mount Etna.

Recommended Attire

Proper attire is key to ensuring a comfortable and safe excursion to the summit craters of Mount Etna.

The tour organizers recommend the following:

• Wear sturdy, well-traction hiking shoes or boots to navigate the rocky and uneven terrain.

• Dress in layers, including hiking pants and a warm jacket, to account for the changing weather conditions and temperature fluctuations at the higher elevations.

• Bring sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the sun’s rays can be intense at the summit.

Following these guidelines will help participants stay comfortable and prepared for the physical demands of the hike and the variable mountain environment.

Guests’ Experiences

Guests who’ve embarked on this excursion to the summit craters of Mount Etna have consistently praised the exceptional guiding and unforgettable experience.

One recent reviewer, Peter from the Netherlands, described the guides as "excellent" and highly recommended the tour.

With 5-star ratings, travelers have highlighted the comprehensive safety briefing, smooth transportation via cable car and 4×4, and the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos during the journey.

The guided hike to the craters at 3000 meters and the subsequent wine tasting and regional cuisine have also been cited as remarkable highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Physical Fitness Requirements for This Excursion?

Yes, there are some physical fitness requirements for this excursion. It involves a 4-hour hike at high altitudes, so participants should be in good physical condition and able to handle strenuous activity.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, guests cannot bring their own food and drinks on this excursion. The tour includes a 2-hour lunch with wine tasting and local products, so participants are expected to enjoy the provided dining experience rather than bringing their own.

How Many People Typically Participate in Each Tour?

The number of participants in each tour typically varies, but the excursion accommodates small to medium-sized groups. Tour operators usually limit the group size to provide a personalized experience and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration beyond the standard 7 hours. The itinerary is pre-set and includes specific activities within that timeframe. Extending the tour would require booking a separate excursion.

Do I Need to Purchase Any Additional Permits or Fees at the Site?

The tour package includes the necessary permits and fees to access the summit craters. There are no additional permits or fees that need to be purchased at the site. Participants can simply show their tour ticket for entry.

Recap

This unforgettable excursion to the summit craters offers an exhilarating blend of natural wonders and culinary delights. The scenic cable car ride, Jeep journey, and guided hike provide breathtaking views, while the regional lunch, wine tasting, and local cheese sampling immerse visitors in the flavors of the region. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on safety, this tour promises an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: