Mount Etna Tours FAQ

Cancellation is free of charge up to 48 hours before the excursion. No refunds are given for same-day cancellations. In case of cancellation due to bad weather or force majeure, a full refund or rescheduling is provided.

Minors must be accompanied by adults. Children can participate under parental responsibility, but the guide reserves the right to exclude very young children for safety reasons depending on the tour type.

Most tours depart from Rifugio Sapienza (Etna South, 1,900m) or Piano Provenzana (Etna North, 1,800m), both easily reachable by car from Catania (45 min) or Taormina (1h 15min). Some excursions start at Monti Sartorius on the north-east side. Private transfer service is available from your hotel in Catania, Taormina, or other locations in eastern Sicily.

Yes. At Rifugio Sapienza and Piano Provenzana paid parking is available (around €10/day). At some locations, such as Monti Sartorius, parking is free and unattended. If you book a private transfer with us, parking is not needed.

Mount Etna is accessible year-round. Spring to autumn offers the best conditions for summit excursions. In winter, snow trekking and snowshoeing excursions are available. A licensed volcanological guide is mandatory above 2,920m.

Morning tours typically depart between 8:00 and 10:00. Night trek excursions depart in the late afternoon for sunset summit views. Exact times are confirmed upon booking.

Required equipment: trekking shoes (ankle-high), layered clothing (it gets cold at altitude), windbreaker jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, water (1.5L minimum), and a small backpack. In winter, warm layers and snow gear are essential.

Yes, at Rifugio Sapienza and Piano Provenzana you can rent trekking shoes, jackets, trekking poles and backpacks. Several rental shops are available at both locations. Winter equipment (crampons, gaiters) is also available for rent.

Children can participate in most tours under parental responsibility. The 2002 Craters tour and Jeep Tour are family-friendly. For the Summit Craters excursion, a minimum age of 12-14 is recommended due to altitude and physical demands.

A licensed volcanological guide is mandatory for excursions above 2,920m altitude. Below that level, you can hike independently, but a guide greatly enhances the experience with safety expertise and geological interpretation.

Yes. Safety comes first. In case of bad weather or volcanic alert, the excursion may be modified (alternative route) or cancelled with a full refund. Routes, maximum altitude and timing may change based on weather, volcanic activity and Civil Protection instructions.