Etna North Sunset Trek from Giardini Naxos

Etna North Sunset Trek from Giardini Naxos is an afternoon on the quieter northern slopes of the volcano, with an easy walk through the woods and a lava cave, finishing with a mountain snack as the light turns gold.

The afternoon is arranged in three stages:

First stop

A drive of about an hour brings you to the base camp on the north side of Etna. After a short briefing with your guide, you collect any equipment you need (hiking boots and windproof jackets are available on request) and set off on foot through old woodland and past extinct craters. A naturalist guide explains the volcano's eruptions, the flora that grows only in this part of Etna and the traditions of the people who live on its slopes. The walk lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, with the colours of the sunset around you.

Second stop

Wearing the helmet and torch provided, you go underground into one of Etna's lava caves while the guide explains how it formed and what such caves were used for.

Third stop

In a mountain hut you are served a sandwich made with local bread and produce, a glass of local wine, a home-made dessert and a small glass of sweet almond liqueur. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options can be arranged on request.

Departure and return times change from day to day, following the actual sunset time, the weather and the light. In summer, clouds often build up in the early afternoon and may bring a little rain, which does not normally affect the tour; the staff will give you instructions on the day.

Please note: availability follows the warmer season, check the booking calendar for the dates on offer. Confirmed departure with a minimum of 4 people. The tour may be cancelled after confirmation if there aren't enough participants.

• Organized by: EtnaPeople
• Duration: Departing at around 3.30pm, return expected at around 9.30pm (about 6 hours). Times vary with the sunset
• Tour Language: Italian, English (Spanish and French available on request with adequate notice)
• Days: Every day
• Difficulty: Easy, light trekking
• Side of Etna: North-East
• Vehicle: Jeep or minibus (maximum 8 people)
• Pick up: Giardini Naxos and nearby (Taormina, Letojanni, Castelmola). Pick-up and drop-off at or close to your accommodation, with a convenient meeting point arranged depending on its location
• Recommended Equipment: Comfortable, season-appropriate clothing, as it is usually cooler on Etna, plus a backpack with water, a jacket, a hat and sunscreen. Hiking boots and windproof jackets can be borrowed for free; if you borrow boots, bring a pair of socks. If you can, wear your own hiking shoes or trainers, which you already know fit well