Hiking on Mount Etna along Monte Nero degli Zappini trail

About the Activity

What to Expect

Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Black Mount Zappini trail, the first nature trail created in Sicily in 1991. Departing from the West plateau of Monte Vetore, you will be immediately immersed in the enchanting pine forests that gave this trail its name. As you hike this loop trail, which presents no particular difficulties, you will traverse both ancient and recent lava fields, providing stunning and contrasting landscapes at every turn.

Your journey will take you through a fascinating landscape of solidified lava formations, including the unique "cannon" stones, where lava solidified around tree trunks, creating natural sculptures. A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Santa Barbara Cave, a site of historical importance that once served as a natural refrigerator for snow. This cave offers a captivating glimpse into the volcanic activity that shaped this region.

The final leg of your hike brings you to the New Gussonea Botanical Garden, a living museum dedicated to the study of Etna's diverse plant species. Here, you can marvel at the unique flora that thrives in the volcanic soil. Throughout your adventure, you will be accompanied by an expert volcanological or alpine guide, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. This trek is suitable for everyone and requires no special equipment, making it the perfect excursion for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Highlights

- Easy trekking suitable for everyone

- Loop Trail

- Enjoy Etna's dense vegetation and Etna’s Botanic Garden

- Expert volcanological or mountain guide

How to Get There

• Meeting place: At our Info Point in Esagonal, in the Piazzale del Rifugio Sapienza Etna Sud.

• Meeting time: 15 minutes before the start of the activity

• Car Parks: paid and free car parks nearby

• Pick up: Please contact us after completing the booking, if you wish to make use of our pick up service.

Itinerary

• Departure At Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza

• West plateau of Monte Vetore

• Passage through ancient lava fields, lava flow caves, "cannon" stones

• Cave of Santa Barbara

• Botanical Garden New Gussonea

• Return at Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza

Requirements

• Minimum age: 5 years

• Suitable for families including children and the elderly

Included Services

• Hiking equipment

Additional Services

• Pick up: Please contact us after completing the booking, if you wish to make use of our pick up service.

Bring Along

• Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat

• Bottle of water

• Snacks

Good to know

• Minimum age required is 5 years

• Not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers

• Dogs allowed

• You are allowed to bring your own drinks and snacks

• Please note that the activity will take place with a minimum number of 6 participants. If the number is not reached the activity will be rescheduled or you will receive a full refund.