Etna half day tour from taormina

Pick-up & Scenic Drive

Departure from Taormina or Giardini Naxos is scheduled around 8:30. Your guide will collect you directly at your accommodation or at an agreed meeting point. The drive toward Etna North takes approximately one hour and passes through scenic mountain villages, vineyards and breathtaking volcanic landscapes, offering a first introduction to the unique environment of Mount Etna.

Coffee break at the Ragabo Forest

After about 45 minutes of departure from Taormina, we will arrive at the Chalet, here we will take a short break for a coffee, our guide will show you the route and for those who do not have them, we will rent our hiking shoes for free.

Hiking on Etna North

The trekking takes place on the northern slope of Mount Etna, far from mass tourism. You will enjoy a gentle two-hour hike (approximately 4 km) across ancient lava fields, birch forests and lateral craters formed during past eruptions. The route is designed to be accessible to most travelers and includes panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the Sicilian mountain ranges. The northern slope of Mount Etna is known for its vast lava deserts, ancient eruptive cones and extensive birch forests. Compared to the southern side, this area is generally less crowded and offers a more authentic volcanic landscape. From several panoramic points along the trail, you can enjoy wide views over the Ionian coastline and the surrounding Sicilian mountains.

Lava Cave Exploration

Equipped with helmet and torch, you will enter one of Mount Etna’s fascinating lava tunnels. Your guide will explain how these caves are formed and how lava flows shaped the internal structure of the volcano. This safe and controlled exploration allows you to experience Etna from the inside. Lava caves are natural tunnels formed during past eruptions. Walking inside one of these volcanic passages helps you understand how Mount Etna’s lava shaped the landscape you see today.

Lunch Break at Mountain Chalet

At the end of the hike, we stop at a charming mountain chalet immersed in pine forest. Here you can relax and enjoy a light lunch featuring local Sicilian products. Two menu options are available (€10 or €15), including vegetarian choices.