Itinerary hike craters 2002

The meeting point for this guided hike is Piano Provenzana, located on the northern side of Mount Etna near the village of Linguaglossa. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your certified (volcanological) guide, who will accompany you along an unsealed volcanic trail leading to the impressive craters formed during the 2002 eruption.

As the hike begins, your guide will share fascinating insights into the dramatic events of October 2002, pointing out the remains of buildings and ski infrastructure that were completely engulfed by lava during one of Etna’s most destructive eruptions in recent history. After approximately one kilometer, you’ll cross the main eruption fracture that opened on October 27, 2002, along the historic Monte Nero – Timpa Rossa path. This deep volcanic scar is a striking reminder of the mountain’s raw power.

As the trail ascends, you’ll pass through a variety of volcanic formations, shaped by centuries of eruptions on the Etna North slope — including those of 1911 and 1923, which once threatened nearby Linguaglossa. A highlight of the hike is the sight of rare morpho-volcanic structures known as Hornitos (from the Spanish word meaning “little ovens”) — small volcanic vents that released gas and lava during the eruption, creating bizarre and beautiful formations.

The hike continues up the pyroclastic cones of the 2002 eruption, where you’ll reach the edge of one of the most impressive craters. Here, at an altitude of around 2200 meters, you’ll stand face to face with the famous 2002 crater chain (locally known as the “Bottoniera del 2002”), offering breathtaking views and unforgettable photo opportunities.

Detail hike craters 2002 Mount Etna

The hike to the 2002 eruption craters starts at 10:30 AM, but you are required to be at the meeting point by 10:00 AM sharp. This gives you time to meet your volcanological guide, receive a short safety briefing, and check your equipment. If needed, hiking shoes or a windproof jacket can be rented directly on site at Piano Provenzana.

This hike is only available upon reservation and requires a minimum number of participants to be confirmed. For this reason, we recommend booking a few days in advance to ensure availability.

You will find a large paid parking area at Piano Provenzana. An attendant will pass by during the day to issue your parking ticket, so please make sure to bring cash for this.

• Starting point Piano Provenzana
• Departure time: 10.30 am
• Difficulty For everyone who loves walking
• Meeting time: 10.00 am
• Return time: 13.30 Hour
• Total duration: 3 Hours
• Total elevation gain: 300 Meters
• Walking distance: 5 km

Price

The excursion costs € 30,00 per person.

In case of snow, snowshoes are recommended. The organization can provide snowshoes. The price for snowshoe rental is € 15,00. Mountain shoes are mandatory with snow!

What to bring

It is mandatory to wear good hiking shoes during the hike. These can also be rented through the volcanological guides or in the stores that are at Piano Provenzana. Also, it is necessary to wear layers and bring a jacket (which can also be rented). The weather can change rapidly in the mountains. It is also necessary to bring at least 1.5 liters of water.

Eating & Drinking

When you return from the hike, after enjoying the beauty of the volcano, you can choose to eat or drink something at high altitude. There are several bars at Piano Provenzana, and also some restaurants where you can stop for lunch.

If you instead start the descent towards Linguaglossa you will find several restaurants where you can stop to taste something homemade and typical.

• Layered clothes
• Backpack
• Sunscreen
• Jacket
• Water
• Sunglasses
• Hiking shoes

Included and excluded

FAQ