Mount Etna: Small Group Trek, Lava Tubes & Sicilian Farm Tasting

Summary

Etna’s wild craters, lava fields and a taste of Sicily’s countryside

You’ll trek across Mount Etna’s wild craters and ancient lava fields with a local guide who knows every story behind each scarred ridge. Explore a real volcanic cave (helmet included), gaze out over Valle del Bove’s sweeping views, then relax at a traditional Sicilian farm with fresh cheese and wine tasting before heading back down — honestly, it stays with you.

What’s the experience like?

"You hear that?" our guide Marco said, pausing mid-step as we crunched over black gravel. I stopped, listening — it was quiet except for the wind and this odd, almost metallic echo when you walked. We’d left Catania just after sunrise, still yawning, and now the air up here near 2000 meters felt sharp in my lungs. There’s something about seeing Mount Etna up close that makes you realize how alive it is — not just smoke in the distance but these endless scars of old eruptions, twisted pine trees clinging to the edge of craters. I kept thinking I’d seen all the colors black could be.

Marco knew every twist of the path — he pointed out where lava had poured down decades ago, and where new shoots were poking through. “This one’s from ‘91,” he said, tapping his boot on a ridge. He handed us helmets before ducking into a volcanic cave (honestly, I hesitated; it smelled faintly like wet stone and something burnt). Inside was cool and dark — my phone camera did nothing for it — but Marco’s flashlight caught little flecks in the rock walls. He told stories about shepherds hiding cheese in these tubes to keep them cool. I tried to imagine it: silence except for your own breath.

Later we stood at the edge of Valle del Bove, looking out over this massive bowl carved by eruptions. The clouds kept shifting so sometimes sunlight would hit just one patch of green way below — weirdly beautiful. My boots were already dusty but I didn’t care anymore; there was this feeling like you’re standing on history that’s still happening. After all that walking (and tripping over more than one root), we ended up at a small Sicilian farm not far from the volcano’s slopes. The owner poured us wine with hands stained purple from harvest — he laughed when I tried to pronounce “pecorino” right. Cheese tasted salty-sweet after all that mountain air.

I still think about that view from the crater rim when I’m back home in traffic — how small everything looked from up there, how quiet it got for just a second before someone cracked another joke about our muddy shoes. If you’re even half curious about Mount Etna or just want to eat cheese after hiking through lunar landscapes with a local guide who actually loves this place…well, yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Morning trek and farm tasting

• Trek past volcanic craters
• Explore ancient forests and lava fields
• Walk at 2000 meters and lateral craters
• Visit volcanic cave and lava tube
• View Valle del Bove
• Visit traditional Sicilian farm
• Taste local products and wines

Top questions

How long does the Mount Etna small group tour last?

The tour is a half-day experience starting in the morning and finishing around midday or early afternoon.

Is hotel pickup included for this Mount Etna trek?

The description doesn’t mention hotel pickup; check with your guide when booking for options.

What should I wear for trekking on Mount Etna?

Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots and bring layers since weather can change quickly at 2000 meters.

Are children allowed on this Mount Etna tour?

Yes, infants and children are welcome; prams or strollers can be used and infant seats are available.

Do we visit an active crater during this day trip?

You’ll trek past extinct craters and lava fields; visiting Silvestri Crater requires an extra ticket if desired.

Is lunch included on this Mount Etna experience?

You’ll enjoy tastings of local products and wines at a traditional Sicilian farm as part of the tour.

What is included in terms of safety gear?

Your day includes helmets for cave visits and hiking poles if needed; both provided by your licensed guide.

Can travelers with limited fitness join this hike?

The route is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your morning includes hiking poles, helmet and light for exploring volcanic caves, plus guidance from a certified Sicily tour expert throughout your trek across Mount Etna’s craters and forests. Afterward you’ll stop at a traditional farm near the volcano to sample local cheeses and wines before heading back down toward town together.