Dear travelers,
I didn’t visit Etna during my trip to Sicily—I had already explored two volcanoes in the past few years (Vesuvius in Italy and Batur in Bali)—and wasn’t quite in the mood for another volcanic hike. So, in this guest post, we have @tijanaperunicic, a Montenegrin expat living in Ljubljana, sharing her adventures in Sicily.
Instead, I asked Tijana to share her experience with us. She visited Sicily in October on a couple’s trip and says she wants to return to explore even more of its stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Can you tell us more about the experience.
This was a full-day trip from Catania that we booked through a local travel agency. You have the option to go to the meeting point yourself or arrange a pick-up from your desired location. We chose to be picked up from our accommodation, and after the trip, we were dropped off back there. I highly recommend this to anyone visiting Sicily because it’s truly an unforgettable experience.
The hike itself is not difficult, and we had a guide who explained various aspects of the volcano, flora, and fauna along the way. We stopped to explore a cave created by lava, which was fascinating. After the cave, we continued walking for about two more hours until we reached a crater (though we didn’t go all the way to the top). The hike was easy with frequent informative stops by the guide, so it was manageable for everyone.
After the hike, the guide took us to a local shop/trattoria where we enjoyed a tasting of various Sicilian delicacies, including pistachio spread and liqueurs. What stood out the most were the Etna DOC wines. The volcanic soil around Etna is particularly fertile, producing excellent wines that were a true delight to sample.
Do you have any tips for fellow travelers?
- Wear appropriate clothing: The weather on Etna can be unpredictable. Layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a hat are essential.
- Safety first: Always check the volcano’s activity status before your visit. Guided tours are recommended for the safest experience.
- Bring water and snacks: There are limited facilities on the mountain, so carry sufficient water and energy-rich snacks.
Thank you, Tijana, for sharing this insightful information about the Sicilian experience. If you’re interested in booking a similar adventure, check out the offers on Viator.
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us
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