Ski touring on Mount Etna, between snow and fire
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationItaly / Sicily
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AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions35.04 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
French
Italian
In a few words
Discover Mount Etna in winter , when Europe's highest active volcano reveals a completely different side. At 3,345 meters , its snow-covered slopes and lunar landscapes make it an ideal playground for ski touring . Thanks to its unique topography , blending volcanic channels and panoramic ridges, each route immerses you in an extraordinary atmosphere. As you climb the volcano's flanks, you'll traverse active fumaroles and enjoy spectacular views of the Ionian coast , in a striking contrast between pristine snow and the earth's warmth. This trip combines sporting adventure and natural immersion in the heart of a protected and fascinating site, far from the hustle and bustle of traditional resorts.
The highlights
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A unique active volcano to ski in a culturally rich region
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Spectacular panorama between craters and the Ionian Sea
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Varied, wild routes suitable for ski touring
Photos
Sport
Level
Ski touring
In figures
Ski touring
- Average duration/day: 5h30
- Average daily elevation gain: 634 m
- Average daily descent: 1034 m
Management
English
French
Italian
Program
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Welcome at the foot of the volcano
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Arrival at Catania airport, followed by a minivan transfer to Nicolosi , a village perched at 700m altitude , between the city and the slopes of the volcano. Nicknamed the Gateway to Etna , this tranquil village offers a first glimpse into the volcanic atmosphere of the region. Check-in to a double room in a B&B, followed by a welcome briefing . You will then share a typical dinner before spending your first night at the foot of Mount Etna .
Day 1 -
Ascent of Mount Etna and the great south-north crossing
- Activity Ski touring
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Positive elevation gain 800 m
- Negative elevation 1500 m
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After an early morning transfer to Rifugio Sapienza (1,900m), you'll take the cable car up to 2,500m. From there, the ski ascent begins towards the volcano's summit craters , perched at 3,345m . Weather permitting, an exploration of the active craters is planned, offering a striking contrast between snow and fumaroles . The descent follows the north face , along a wild route to Monte Conca (1,800m), with a long and exhilarating glide across volcanic terrain. Return to Nicolosi for a traditional dinner and a well-deserved night's rest .
Day 2 -
Pizzi Deneri and sea panoramas
- Activity Ski touring
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 1000 m
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Departure towards Piano Provenzana (1,900m), on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. A chairlift takes you to 2,400m, then the ascent continues on skis to the Pizzi Deneri (approximately 2,900m). This natural viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the sea , the Aeolian Islands , the Valle del Leone , and the summit craters . The descent follows the spectacular Canal des Quarante Heures (Forty Hours Canal), known for its playful slopes of volcanic snow. Back in Nicolosi , you'll enjoy a traditional dinner accompanied by a tasting of local wines before another night at the foot of the volcano.
Day 3 -
Final panorama of the Valle del Bove
- Activity Ski touring
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 600 m
- Negative elevation 600 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
For this final morning, you'll return to the Rifugio Sapienza (1,900m), the starting point for a gentle ascent to Montagnola (2,500m). The route follows the Schiena dell'Asino , a ridge offering remarkable panoramic views of the Valle del Bove , the summit craters , Catania , and the Ionian Sea . After a break at the summit, you'll ski back down the same path. A transfer to the airport is scheduled for the afternoon, marking the end of your trip.
Day 4
Note
The itinerary is subject to weather, snow conditions, and volcanic activity. The guide reserves the right to modify the program, even on the day of the activity.
Accommodation
Bed & Breakfast in Nicolosi
Access
Transfers at the beginning and end of your stay to/from Catania airport are included.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
Bed and breakfast accommodation (3 nights, double rooms, breakfast included)
All transfers by minivan as per the program
Accompaniment by a UIAGM mountain guide on days 1, 2 and 3
2 typical dinners
1 wine tasting at a local vineyard
Liability insurance
The price does not include
Flights and transfers to/from Sicily
Cable car and/or ski lifts
Ski mountaineering equipment
Lunches
Personal insurance, cancellation insurance, baggage insurance (highly recommended)
Anything not mentioned in "the price includes".
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Basic ski touring/mountaineering equipment required (rental available)
- Each person must bring an ice axe and crampons for the ascent to the summit (rental available).
- Warm clothing is particularly recommended.
