Debated long and hard about going up Etna due to a limited budget. Scouring the internet for its many tour options this tour stuck out to us because of its packed itinerary and reduced price compared to others. After much deliberation we chose this tour of hiking to the summit with a pick up and drop service.
Great communication with the tour guide (Eduardo/Edo) and our pick up service (Serena) the night before with clear advice about bringing lunch and appropriate attire.
Pick up was seamless and Serena went above and beyond to make us comfortable, chatty, friendly, and all together a lovely person. We arrived promptly by 9 and was greeted by Edo and the team at the cable car stop. I was wearing running shoes which were not appropriate for this climb, at €6 I rented a pair of comfortable and much needed walking boots from the cable car shop. We were also given helmets and the option of a jacket if needed. We were then told to wait in the cafe area, ensuring that we had eaten and drank enough, whilst the other guests arrived. At 9:30 we set off, cable car tickets sorted for us and easy ride from there on.
At the other end of the cable car, we regrouped and were split dependent on preferred language (English, French, Italian). We then began our ascent up Etna, stopping frequently to ensure our whole group were okay to proceed (water, picture ops and many interesting facts). The ascent itself was not too taxing, any average fitness level will be okay for this climb. Positively, Serena was waiting at the cable car point for any that may have suffered due to altitude/fatigue, although as far as we know, all guests were fine.
We saw craters, lava caves and many stunning views, even being so lucky as to see a small gas eruption. We stopped for lunch at 3000m (our highest point), which was definitely needed due to the steep climb! For anyone worried about altitude (as my partner was), try not to be concerned, at 3000m there was only a slight tight chest but nothing to be worried about!
Then the descent began. We covered many of the 2002 craters (aptly named the button eruption), with many picture opportunities (with Edo taking many of these!). Now for the fun bit. We descended over what can only be described as volcanic sand dunes, guessing around 300m. My partner was not so sure on her feet but Edo was incredible. Quick to guide us on the best technique to get down (sprinting!!) we then went arm and arm the rest of the way and it was so much fun! A small walk got us back to the cable car and from then it was plain sailing.
Great communication with Serena meant we were back in our mini van when all of our group were ready, and off back to Catania. Again, Serena went above and beyond, advising us of things to do in the evening and answering many of our questions about Catania. She truly is an asset to the company.
Thanks again to Serena and Edo for making this trip better than we could have ever imagined! Jack and Ella 🥰