Mount Etna

by coach & on foot

This experience takes you to Mount Etna, the highest and most active volcano in Europe. Etna has, over the years, displayed a variety of eruption styles including explosions and voluminous lava flows. More than 25% of Sicily’s population lives on Etna’s slopes. Etna has also produced pyroclastic flows, ashfalls, and mudflows, but the lava flows are the most immediately hazardous type of activity, especially to the city of Catania.

Departing the port, enjoy a short drive before leaving the city of Messina behind and starting your journey to Mt. Etna - Sicily’s greatest natural attraction, locally known as “Mongibello”.

Arriving at the Cratere Silvestri area, situated approximately 1950m (6398ft) above sea level, you will be able to gaze out across the Catania Gulf and view the woods, orchards and vineyards from this vantage point.

Of course, the major attractions are the crater and the remnants of the awe-inspiring streams of lava, including lava from the 2001 and 2002 eruptions. The slopes soar up to over 3296m (10814ft) and the flanks are covered with scores of cones and craters.

After your visit, reboard the coach and leave Mt. Etna returning to Messina.