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Climb a Giant
Join Gabriele Scrofani (aka @ethoshock), science communicator, for this trekking adventure in Sicily that will take you to sleep on Mount Etna. This natural giant, world-famous for its spectacular eruptions, is a true microcosm that shapes the landscape, the culture of the entire island, and the lives of its people!
HIGHLIGHTS
- A Walk Through History and Nature:
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Etna and its surroundings, following ancient paths steeped in history. From medieval towns to the lava-scarred terrain of Europe’s highest active volcano, this trek offers an unparalleled mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. - Guided Volcano Adventures:
Delve into the heart of Mount Etna with expert guidance from Daniele Corso. Discover hidden caves, volcanic craters, and pristine forests, all while learning about the geological wonders of the region. With professional equipment provided, this adventure is both safe and exhilarating. - All Inclusive:
We’ll take care of all the gear you need for the hike and trek. All you need to bring is your adventurous spirit and a few good stories to share along the way.
Fun Note: The trail is of moderate difficulty: it doesn’t require any specific training or athletic preparation, but it still demands some effort. It’s suitable for people who are used to walking for a few hours on natural paths with moderate elevation changes. It’s not recommended for those with limited mobility or anyone who struggles with sustained physical activity.
TRIP PURPOSE
Discover how nature and humanity influence each other on Mount Etna. An exploration of the unique connection between biodiversity and the volcanic environment to inspire conservation efforts.
This trip has been designed based on the following principles:
- Promotion of the local economy
- Environmental and social education
IMPORTANT INFO
The hike is of medium difficulty: it doesn't require specific athletic training, but it's suitable only for people used to walking for several hours on natural trails with moderate elevation gain. It is not recommended for those with reduced mobility, a sedentary lifestyle, or those suffering from cardiovascular or respiratory issues, high blood pressure, or for pregnant individuals. The experience takes place over four days in nature, with overnight stays in tents or unmanaged shelters, without access to basic services such as running water or bathrooms—therefore, being self-sufficient and properly equipped is essential. The guide reserves the right to exclude participants who are not adequately prepared, to modify the route, or to cancel the hike in case of adverse weather conditions. Pets are not allowed. Any medical conditions, allergies, or intolerances must be communicated to the guide in advance.
What's included
- Food: 5 breakfast, 4 lunch, 5 dinner.
- Accomodation: 2 nights at 2-3 stars hotel/hostel + 3 nights at forest shelters
- Transportation: Bus from Catania city to Adrano and from Randazzo to Catania city. All other transfers will be on foot.
- Activities: Guided trek along the Etna section of the Via Fabaria, including trekking equipment (trekking poles, helmets, gaiters), sleeping gear (tent, pillow, sleeping pad, mat, and sleeping bag), and full logistical support.
- Other: Support from an ORMA coordinator throughout the entire trip.
- Insurance: Medical and baggage insurance.
What's not included
- Transporation: Transfer from/to station/airport. Flight from and to Catania starting from €100.
- Other: Trip cancellation insurance.
- Anything not specified under "What's included".
Payment Terms
30% down payment at the time of booking and the remaining 70% due 30 days prior to departure.
If the booking is made within 30 days of departure, the full amount is due at checkout.
Bank transfers or credit cards can be used to make payments.
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Arrival in Sicily and Check-in
The meeting point is in Catania, at the Central Station, no later than 4:00 PM. From there, we’ll take a short metro ride to Nesima, where a private shuttle will take us to Adrano. You’ll settle into your first accommodation and spend the evening getting to know the group and preparing for the start of the hike the next day.
Day 2 - From Adrano to Piano dei Grilli
Distance: 13 km - Elevation gain: 700 m
We start at 8:00 AM from the town of Adrano, walking along the “Via del Frutteto” among lava stone walls, pistachio trees, and olive groves. We'll enter Etna Park, where the vegetation changes to broom and endemic plants growing on ancient lava fields. We’ll pass through Prato Fiorito Forest and the wild Centorbi Forest, filled with holm oaks and extinct craters.We’ll end the day at Monte Ruvolo hut, in Piano dei Grilli.
Day 3 - From Monte Ruvolo to Maletto Forest
Distance: 9.5 km - Elevation gain: 500 m
After breakfast, we’ll head toward the Altamontana area, walking along panoramic trails shaped by historic lava flows. We’ll cross extinct craters, centuries-old oaks, and lush green patches (dagale) within the black lava landscape. We'll reach the Altamontana Trail and explore a lava tube hidden in the Maletto Forest. Overnight at Rifugio Maletto, one of the most remote huts on Etna.
Day 4 - From Maletto Forest to Case Pirao
Distance: 13 km - Elevation gain: 50 m
We’ll walk through a high-altitude beech forest along the Altamontana Trail, with views over recent lava flows. After a stop at Monte Spagnolo hut, nestled in the woods, we’ll cross the dramatic landscape of the 1981 eruption. We'll visit the Schadlish Cave before descending to Case Pirao hut, in the heart of Sicily.
Day 5 - From Case Pirao to Randazzo
Distance: 14.5 km - Elevation gain: 250 m
We’ll hike through ancient lava fields and abandoned agricultural landscapes, discovering old terraces and shepherd shelters. A highlight is the Grotta del Burrò, a lava cave home to bat colonies. Our final descent will bring us to Randazzo, a medieval village where we’ll arrive around 2:30 PM, completing our Etna crossing.
Day 6 - Return to Catania and Farewell
We’ll start the day early, catching the 7:00 or 7:30 AM bus back to Catania (approx. 2 hours). Our journey officially ends upon arrival in the city. For those who wish, there will be time to explore Catania and its wonders.
Is a science communicator on animal husbandry, food production, animal welfare, and environmental issues. He has been passionate about animal behavior and ethology since childhood, making him interested in birdwatching and animal protection. He eventually studied animal production at the university, focusing on animal welfare and the environmental impact of husbandry.
Meanwhile, he started a science communication project on YouTube and Instagram called "Ethoshock" about animal behavior and sustainability bringing him to become a speaker and panelist in science festivals and conventions. Then he focused on novel foods like insects and cultivated meat and the environmental impact of food production and attended a science communication master's course at the SISSA of Trieste.
He is a video-maker and content creator and is writing for the PNNR partnership OnFoods, a collaboration of various Italian universities about the sustainability of food production.
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Booking Info
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