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Explore Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges from Catania City Centre

Explore the volcanic landscapes of Etna and the cooling canyons of the Alcantara Gorges on a single unforgettable day: you’ll ride by SUV or minivan from Catania City Centre with experienced guides, take an off-road drive to the 2002 lava front, and follow the scenic Via Mareneve through the fragrant Ragabo pine forest to the trekking start for the Monti Sartorius craters; the easy walk from 1650 m to 1750 m suits all fitness levels and leads you to explore the atmospheric lava cave, the Grotta dei Ladroni, equipped with helmets and torches. After a local lunch (first course, drink and coffee included) you’ll reach the striking basalt walls of the Larderia Gorges-another name for the Alcantara Gorges-where you can relax and cool off in the Alcantara river inside the canyon. This full-day adventure from Catania blends volcanic trekking, subterranean wonder, and refreshing Water-Based relaxation, perfect for families, adventure seekers and anyone booking through Varoom who wants a compact, activity-packed experience near the city.

About this activity in Catania City Centre

Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Highlights

  • Explore Mount Etna’s recent 2002 lava front and trek through the Ragabo pine forest to the Monti Sartorius craters - an easy, panoramic walk starting at 1,650 m and reaching 1,750 m.
  • Descend into the Grotta dei Ladroni lava cave with helmets and torches for a hands-on subterranean adventure.
  • Enjoy a local lunch at a chalet or restaurant (first course, drink and coffee included), sampling regional flavors after your mountain outing.
  • Cool off and relax in the striking Alcantara Gorges - a refreshing river canyon experience that contrasts beautifully with Etna’s volcanic landscape.

Important Information

  • Transport is by private SUV or air-conditioned minivan (groups up to 8), with off-road access to volcanic sites and convenient pick-up from Catania City Centre.
  • The guided trek is easy and suitable for most participants: you’ll walk roughly from 1,650 m to 1,750 m on well-marked trails through the pine forest and volcanic terrain.
  • You’ll be equipped for the cave visit with helmets and torches; trekking poles are available on request and bottled water is provided.
  • After lunch you’ll visit the Alcantara Gorges (municipal entrance included) where you can stroll along the canyon and cool off in the river during warmer months.

Meeting Point

Meet in Catania City Centre at the specified pickup spot provided after booking; from here your private SUV/minivan departs directly for Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges.

Includes

  • Private transportation included for easy pick-up and drop-off in Catania City Centre - travel across the area in comfort without worrying about transfers
  • Complimentary bottled water provided to keep you refreshed during your time in the region
  • Trekking equipment available: helmet and flashlight included, with hiking poles provided upon request for outdoor and adventure activities around the destination
  • Air-conditioned vehicle supplied to ensure a comfortable ride between Catania City Centre and nearby sites
  • Alcantara Gorges municipal entrance ticket included so you can explore the gorges without extra planning
  • A first course, a drink and coffee served - enjoy a local-style meal component as part of the experience

Other

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers - please consider this advisory when planning activities in the area
  • Public transportation options are available nearby if you prefer to travel independently around the destination
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels - the activity is designed to accommodate a wide range of abilities here

Customer Reviews

10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Liora_D
Oct 5, 2025 03:36:51 PM
Summary: We had a great time with Salvo who is a gifted gide and a very pleasant and patiant person. He guided us with much information and funny remarks in the unique Etna north craters.
329frankg
Oct 1, 2025 03:04:44 AM
Summary: Salvatore was a great host taking us to excellent tour of Etna showing us some great landscapes and terrain of Etna. He was very patient and accommodates everyone’s needs to make sure we all had a great experience. Highly recommended.
Nisha_B
Sep 27, 2025 08:11:48 AM
Summary: Exhilarating day out exploring Etna and the Alcantara Gorge Salvatore was an amazing guide explaining all the way Lunch was just right, I had requested vegetarian and had one of the best tortellini dish Etna was amazing and the gorge was enchanting Would highly recommend this tour and Dream Island adventures

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Know more about Catania City Centre

You’ll travel by SUV or minivan with an experienced guide to see a 2002 eruption lava front, drive along Via Mareneve through the Ragabo pine forest, trek to the Monti Sartorius craters, explore the Grotta dei Ladroni lava cave with helmets and torches, enjoy a included first course with drink and coffee, and finish with a refreshing visit to the Alcantara Gorges and the river canyon.
You’ll be equipped with helmets and torches for the Grotta dei Ladroni lava flow cave, and trekking equipment such as helmets, flashlights, and hiking poles (upon request) are included to ensure a safe, guided cave visit.
Lunch at a local chalet or restaurant is included and consists of a first course, a drink and coffee, and bottled water is provided during the excursion to keep you refreshed.
The walk starts at 1,650 metres and reaches 1,750 metres and is described as an easy trek suitable for everyone, so you can expect a gentle ascent on paths to the Monti Sartorius craters that suits a wide range of fitness levels.
Private transportation is included: you’ll travel from Catania by SUV or air-conditioned minivan (up to 8 people) with experienced guides for the off-road sections and the drive along Via Mareneve to the Ragabo pine forest and starting points.
Yes - the easy trek and guided activities are suitable for all physical fitness levels and family groups; however, the experience is not recommended for pregnant travelers, and public transportation options are available nearby if needed.