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Etna & Alcantara Gorges Excursion
The perfect mix of fire and water: trekking, caves and river relaxation
The perfect mix of fire and water: trekking, caves and river relaxation
8 Hours
DurationEasy
Level1780m
Max Alt.Max 8
Minivan/SUVAre you looking for the ultimate adventure in Sicily? Our Etna and Alcantara Gorges excursion is the most complete and requested tour to discover the island's two geological wonders in a single day. Perfect for those staying in and looking for a tour from Catania or from Taormina, this experience combines the adrenaline of the highest active volcano in Europe with the refreshing coolness of the Alcantara River.
Our journey begins by exploring the North Slope of Etna, the most authentic, green and wild side of the volcano. Aboard our comfortable 4x4 vehicles or minivans, we will cross the ancient and fragrant Ragabo Pine Forest along the panoramic Mareneve road. Here the landscape changes drastically: from lush forests we will pass to massive black and recent lava flows, witnesses of nature's power, such as the destructive 2002 eruption that destroyed Piano Provenzana.
The Etna excursion continues on foot with an easy trek suitable for everyone (families included) on the Sartorius Craters at about 1700 meters above sea level. You will walk on the edge of these "buttonhole craters", now extinct, enjoying a breathtaking view ranging from the volcano to the Ionian Sea. But the adventure doesn't end here: equipped with helmets and torches provided by us, we will enter the bowels of the earth exploring the suggestive Cave of Thieves (Grotta dei Ladroni), a true lava flow tunnel used in the past as an "ice house" to store ice.
After a regenerating stop for a typical Sicilian lunch (included in the price), we will leave the volcano to move towards the river valley. Here you will admire the famous Alcantara Gorges, a spectacular natural canyon formed by columnar basalt walls up to 25 meters high, created by the rapid cooling of lava in contact with freezing water. You can walk in the riverbed, cool off in its crystal clear waters or simply relax on the small beach, admiring unique lava geometries. A perfect ending between geology, history and nature.
Volcanic Landscapes
Discover the majesty of Etna
Cave Exploration
Crater Trekking
Lunar Landscapes
River Trekking
Winter Excursion
€ 80.00 (Adults) / € 60.00 (Children 3-10)
Departure 09:00 / Return 17:00 approx
Linguaglossa, Via Francesco Messina 45
Easy, 3km total, +100m elevation gain
All year round (Weather permitting)
Free within 30km from Linguaglossa
Private tours on request
Essential: Swimsuit, beach towel and flip flops.
Recommended: Water shoes for walking easily in the river bed.
Departure by Jeep/Minivan through the Ragabo Pine Forest until we reach the impressive lava flow of the 2002 eruption.
Easy walk (3km) among birch forests and UNESCO heritage buttonhole craters. Breathtaking views of the sea.
We will wear helmets and torches to enter the "Grotta dei Ladroni", a tunnel formed by lava flow.
Relaxing stop at a local refuge/restaurant. The menu includes a pasta dish, drink and coffee.
Visit to the famous prismatic lava canyon. Access via municipal entrance included. Free time for relaxation and swimming.
€ 60.00 children 3-10 years
Free infant (0-2 years)
Operator speaks: IT, EN, FR
"Fantastic day! The guide was very professional and explained everything with passion. The Alcantara Gorges were the icing on the cake after the trekking."
"The included lunch was excellent, local food and plentiful. The trekking is not tiring, suitable even for my parents. Highly recommended!"
"Impeccable organization. From the punctual pick-up to the return. Seeing the lava cave from the inside was exciting."
