Itinerary Etna Sunset tour

The Etna Sunset Excursion begins at 1,800 meters above sea level, from Piano Provenzana on the north side of Mount Etna. From here, a comfortable 4×4 bus will take you up to approximately 2,900 meters – just in time to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sun setting over Sicily.

Along the way, there will be several scenic stops, carefully selected based on the weather and volcanic conditions.

The first stop is at the 2002 craters, the site of one of Etna’s most powerful recent eruptions on the northern flank. Here, you’ll step off the bus and walk with a professional volcano guide to the edge of these dramatic craters. During the walk, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over ancient craters, the Piano Provenzana area, the Ionian coast, and even Taormina in the distance. The guide will share fascinating insights about the 2002 eruption and the volcanic history of this part of Mount Etna. This stop usually lasts around 30–40 minutes.

Afterwards, the 4×4 bus continues the climb. If conditions allow, there may be an additional stop near the 1809 crater, located just near the road.

The journey continues to the highest point of the excursion: Piano delle Concazze, at an altitude of about 2,900 meters. Here, in a surreal lunar-like landscape near the Pizzi Deneri Observatory, you’ll step out once again. Depending on the weather and volcanic activity, a short walk with the guide is possible – to admire the Valle del Bove or enjoy an unforgettable view of the smoking summit craters.

As sunset approaches, the guide will take you to the best viewpoint of the day – whether it’s at 2,900 meters or a little lower, for example at Punta Lucia – where you’ll have a magical view of the sun dipping below the horizon. On clear evenings, you may even see the Aeolian Islands in the distance, with the glowing craters of Mount Etna right behind you.

After this unforgettable moment, it’s time to return. The 4×4 bus will take you comfortably back to Piano Provenzana, giving you time to reflect on the experience and the unique beauty of Europe’s most active volcano. The return journey takes around 35–40 minutes.

Detail: Lava & Etna sunset tour

When Mount Etna is erupting, the Etna Sunset Tour becomes the absolute best excursion to witness the volcano’s fiery activity. Why? Because during the daytime, lava flows are often hard to see — but at dusk and in the dark, the glowing red of the molten lava becomes truly spectacular.

That’s why this excursion fills up very quickly during eruptive phases. In addition to the breathtaking sunset at 2,900 meters, you may also witness liquid lava flowing down the slopes of Etna. It’s a double dose of magic — sunset and lava, all in one unforgettable experience!

Of course, eruptions are unpredictable. In 2021, Etna erupted more than 50 times. In 2022, there were only 2 or 3 eruptions, although one of them lasted an entire month. In 2024, we witnessed spectacular summit activity, and now in 2025, we’ve already seen over 13 eruptions — and the year isn’t over yet!

That said, we can never guarantee an eruption or the chance to see active lava. But when it does happen, the Etna Sunset Tour offers one of the most breathtaking ways to witness it.

Time schedule Etna sunset tour

• Meeting: around 17.30 hour
• Departure: around 18.00 hour
• Return: around 21.00 hour
• Duration of excursion: around 3 hours

The Etna Sunset Tour takes place daily around 18.00 hour, but participation is only possible by reservation. Places are limited, so early booking is strongly recommended — especially during the summer months and periods of volcanic activity! This excursion requires a minimum of 6 participants.

Please make sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the tour, so everything can begin smoothly and on time.

You can park your car at Piano Provenzana, where you’ll find a paid parking lot monitored by an attendant. The parking fee is € 3.00 per day.

• Starting Point Piano Provenzana - Etna Nord
• Departure time around 18:00 hour
• Duration by bus 45 + 45 minutes
• Meeting time: around 17.30 hour
• Return time around 21:00 hour
• Total duration: about 3 hours
• Total elevation gain 1000 meters
• Walking distance: around 1,5 km

Price and availability

Price Etna Sunset excursion

• Adults: € 75,00 per person
• Children 4 – 12 years: € 60,00 per person
• Children 0 – 3 years: free, when they sit on the laps of their parents/caregivers.

You can pay at the ticket office on the day of the excursion by presenting your reservation. Without reservation there is no place for you! You can pay for the excursion by cash, ATM or credit card.

Availability

The Etna Sunset Tour is available from April to October.

The starting time depends on the season, as we always aim to reach the highest point around sunset. On average, the tour begins around 6:00 p.m., but this can vary depending on the time of year. In general, we depart approximately two hours before sunset.

During the early and late season, the tour is offered only on select days and with sufficient participation. This means the excursion may take place just a few times per week.
Our advice: book early to secure your spot and to allow us to coordinate group availability more easily.

Including and excluding

What to Wear – Be Prepared for the Altitude

Keep in mind that this excursion takes you up to nearly 3,000 meters above sea level, where temperatures can be very different from those at the coast — even in the middle of summer.

Spring & Late Season (April to mid-June / Late September to October)

During these months, it can be very cold at high altitude, especially due to the wind. For example, in May, temperatures at 2,900 meters can drop to just 4°C (39°F) or lower, and the wind often makes it feel even colder. We strongly recommend:

• Wearing long trousers (shorts are not suitable in this season)

• Layered clothing, so you can adjust to changing conditions

• A windproof or thermal jacket

• A hat or hood and even gloves — these are often very helpful

• Sturdy, closed shoes such as hiking boots or trainers with good grip

Summer (Mid-June to Early September)

In the peak summer months, this tour is actually ideal, as temperatures at the summit are much cooler than at sea level. However, don’t forget — you’re still at 3,000 meters! Even in August, it can feel chilly when the sun sets. We still recommend:

• Layered clothing (short sleeves plus a light jacket or sweater)

• Long trousers (especially for the sunset moment)

• A windproof layer

• Closed shoes with good grip

Being well-prepared will ensure you enjoy the sunset and volcanic views in full comfort — whatever the season!

Rental Clothing and Shoes

If you don’t have the right gear with you, it’s possible to rent a jacket or shoes at Piano Provenzana. If you’d like to make use of this option, please let me know in advance so I can arrange everything for you.

Please note: most souvenir shops close around 5:00 p.m., so it will not be possible to return rental items after the excursion. Make sure to pick up your rental gear before the shops close.

Rental prices:

• Jacket: € 5.00

• Shoes: € 5.00 – € 8.00 (depending on the rental shop and model)

Food and drinks
There are two bars at Piano Provenzana where you can buy snacks and drinks, but please note that these may close earlier in the low season. If you’d like to bring food and drinks with you on the tour in low season, it’s best to make arrangements before heading up to Piano Provenzana. We also advise you to:

• Bring at least 1.5 liters of water per person

• Pack a sandwich or snack, as you’ll return to your car only around 21.00 hour

Being well prepared ensures you stay energized and comfortable throughout the experience!

• Layered clothes
• Jacket
• Good sportshoes
• Water
• Snack
• Phone
• Powerbank
• Backpack
• Sunscreen
• Gloves
• Hat
• Sunglasses

FAQ