Etna Summit Hike from Piano Provenzana – 4x4 Up, Full Descent on Foot (3347m)

The Etna Summit Hike from Piano Provenzana starts early in the morning at Piano Provenzana, located at 1800 meters on the north side of Mount Etna. This area offers a striking contrast between lush pine forests and black lava flows from past eruptions.From here, you’ll board a special 4×4 Unimog bus that takes you off-road to Piano delle Concazze at 2900 meters altitude. Along the way, you’ll pass through impressive lava landscapes, extinct craters, and the dramatic 2002 eruption fracture line.

At 2900 meters, the real hike begins. Together with your certified volcanological guide, you’ll hike uphill to the summit craters at 3347 meters. This stretch takes about 2 hours (5 km) and offers stunning views, lunar-like terrain, and fascinating insights into Etna’s volcanic activity.

Once at the top, you’ll walk along the rim of the northeast crater — the highest point of Mount Etna — and, conditions permitting, observe active fumaroles releasing volcanic gases. A rare and unforgettable experience!

After a short break to enjoy the views and take photos, you’ll start the descent entirely on foot, from 3347 meters all the way back to Piano Provenzana at 1800 meters. The return hike is about 8 km and takes approximately 5 hours, passing panoramic viewpoints, old lava flows, and ancient craters.

The entire tour is led by professional volcanological guides authorized to accompany visitors to the summit. It is a demanding but deeply rewarding experience for well-trained and motivated hikers.

Details

This full-day adventure starts from Piano Provenzana (Etna North) and combines a 4×4 transfer with a challenging hike to the summit craters of Mount Etna. After reaching 2900 m by Unimog bus, you’ll hike to the summit at 3347 m and return fully on foot to your starting point.

Key Details:

• Start point: Piano Provenzana – 1800 m altitude
• Highest point: Summit craters – 3347 m altitude
• Ascent hike: ±5 km / ~2 hours (from 2900 m to 3347 m)
• Descent hike: ±8 km / ~5 hours (from 3347 m to 1800 m)

Parking: Paid parking available at Piano Provenzana (€3 per day)

• Starting point: Piano Provenzana - Etna Nord
• Departure time: 8:00 hours
• Total duration Full Day
• Meeting time 07.45 hour
• Return time: Around 15.30 hour
• Duration by bus 40 minutes
• Total elevation gain Almost 500m up + 1500m down
• Trekking duration on foot: 2 Hours up + 5 hours down
• Walking distance: 5 Km up and 8 Km down

Price

This excursion is only possible for very experienced hikers only. This excursion guantantees an experienced walking group with a maximum of 10-12 persons per guide.

Very experienced hikers only: € 140,00 per person.

We do not ask for any advance payment, we work on a trust basis! You can pay on the day of the tour, directly to the guide. You can pay in cash, by debit card or by credit card. With the booking you receive a confirmation with all details and the booking voucher by email.

Let us know your experience level with your availability request!

Including and Excluding

What to bring?

Mount Etna’s conditions can change quickly, especially at high altitude. Good preparation is essential for your comfort and safety. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in layers. Bring enough water, some food, and protection against wind and sun.
If you don’t have proper hiking shoes or a windbreaker, don’t worry — the organization can provide them on site.

• Layered clothes
• Har or cap
• 1.5L Water
• Windjacket
• Sunscreen
• Backpack
• Sturdy hiking shoes
• Powerbank
• Snacks

FAQ