What happens, if the Etna erupts?
Learn how Mount Etna eruptions affect our tours — cancellations are rare, special night tours may be offered, and your safety is always our top priority.
Mount Etna eruptions rarely cancel our tours — in most cases, they make the experience even more spectacular.
How eruptions affect our tours
Our tours have not been affected during outbreaks in recent years. In fact, periods of volcanic activity often make the experience even more dramatic and visually stunning. Lava flows, glowing craters, and volcanic plumes create a truly unforgettable landscape for visitors.
Special night tours during eruptions
When an eruption occurs, we also offer special night tours to Mount Etna. These tours provide a unique opportunity to witness the glowing lava and fiery activity up close after dark — an experience that is simply impossible to replicate at any other time.
Your safety is our priority
All of our tours are led by experienced, certified local guides who closely monitor volcanic activity and are in constant contact with the relevant authorities. We strictly follow all safety guidelines issued by the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) and local civil protection agencies. If access to certain areas is restricted for safety reasons, our guides will adapt the tour route accordingly to ensure the best and safest experience possible.
What you should know before your tour
- Cancellations are rare: Eruptions rarely lead to tour cancellations — in most cases, they enhance the experience.
- Access restrictions: If an eruption causes access restrictions, we will inform you as soon as possible and discuss available alternatives.
- What to wear: We recommend sturdy, closed-toe shoes and a jacket, as temperatures on the volcano can be significantly lower than at sea level.
- Ash and sulfur smell: During periods of volcanic activity, there may be some ash or sulfur smell in the air — this is normal and generally not hazardous at the distances maintained on our tours.
Quick overview
| Situation | Impact on your tour |
|---|---|
| Minor eruption or increased activity | Tour runs as normal — often a more dramatic experience |
| Eruption at night | Special night tours available to see glowing lava after dark |
| Access restrictions due to safety | Route adapted by guides; you will be informed and offered alternatives |
| Full tour cancellation | Rare; only if authorities deem conditions unsafe |
If you have any concerns about an upcoming eruption and how it may affect your booking, please do not hesitate to contact our team. We are happy to provide you with the latest updates on volcanic activity.