Etna & Alcantara Experience

8:00 am – 8:30 am: Meeting in Catania

Meet your guide at your accommodation or the designated meeting point in Catania to commence an exciting adventure.

Scenic Drive and Introduction:

Embark on a comfortable 1.5-hour drive towards the volcano area, relishing the picturesque journey.

Engage in a friendly and informative chat with your guide, who will provide insights into the day’s itinerary, safety guidelines, and fascinating facts about Mount Etna and Alcantara Gorges.

Take advantage of brief stops at scenic viewpoints for quick photo breaks, capturing stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Easy Hike and Geological Wonders:

Embark on a leisurely yet informative hike (approximately 1 hour) to explore the old, extinct craters at an altitude of 2000 metres.

Admire breathtaking views of the Ionian Coast, stretching from Taormina to Syracuse. Dive into the geological history of the area, encountering ancient and recent flows of solidified lava and various forms of pyroclastic material.

Pause at key points along the hike to discover and discuss different examples of endemic flora unique to the volcano. Learn about the myths, scientific research on Etna, and the local approach to living on the foot of the volcano.

Alcantara Gorges Visit:

Drive for around 1.5 hours to the Park of Alcantara River (Parco Fluviale dell’Alcantara), where you’ll admire curious columnar forms of basalt walls, creating a famous canyon called Gorges of Alcantara. Stroll inside the cool water, and for the brave, take a refreshing dip into the icy river. Spend approximately 1 hour enjoying the beauty of the river.

Relax and Return to Catania:

Wind down and relax during the return journey to Catania, with an estimated arrival back around 4:30 – 5:00 pm, concluding the full-day tour on Mount Etna and the Alcantara River.