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Nature
Sicily
Wild Etna
Join Gabriele Scrofani (aka @ethoshock), a science communicator, on this journey through Sicily that will take you to sleep on Mount Etna. Discover a microcosm that has shaped the landscape and culture of the entire island and its inhabitants for centuries.
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
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. - Cultural and Culinary Exploration:
Immerse yourself in Sicily’s rich heritage by exploring medieval towns like Paternò, Adrano, and Randazzo. Refuel with authentic Sicilian flavors and connect with locals, discovering the traditions that have shaped this unique island.
Fun Note: Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and don’t forget your curiosity—this isn’t just a trek; it’s a journey into the very soul of Sicily (with a few gelato stops, of course). First-time hiker? No worries! The difficulty level is so low even your grandma could join (well, maybe not your grandma, but you get the idea).
No car? Chill, we’ll coordinate transport between participants, so all you have to worry about is not eating the entire cannoli before the hike starts!
What's included
- Food: 5 breakfast, 4 lunch, 5 dinner.
- Accomodation: 3 nights at 2-3 stars hotel/hostel + 2 nights in tent.
- Transportation: Transfer from Catania city to Paternò and from Randazzo to Catania city. All other transfers will be on foot.
- Activities: Guided trekking along the Etna section of the Via Fabiara, including trekking equipment (tents, poles, helmets, headlamps), and full logistical organization.
- Other: Support from an ORMA coordinator throughout the entire trip.
- Insurance: Medical and baggage insurance.
What's not included
- Food: Lunches and dinners, unless specified otherwise.
- Accomodation: City tax.
- 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.
Direzione Turistica APICAL Srl, Via Stretta 32, 25128 Brescia (BS). P.lva 03958620985 REA BS-577256 - SCIA 019363 of SUAP of Milano 2021. For more information, see the Terms & Conditions in the website footer.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Sicily and Accommodation
The meeting point is in Catania, at the Central Station, by 1:00 PM. Enjoy a lunch (not included) before taking a short metro ride to Nesima, where a shuttle will take you to Paternò. Once there, you’ll settle into the first hostel and spend the evening getting to know your fellow travelers and preparing for the start of the trek the following day.
Day 2: Start of the Trek from Paternò to Adrano
The day begins with an early morning departure from the hostel. This 15.2 km stretch offers stunning views of Mount Etna as you pass through urbanized areas with plenty of opportunities to rest. The climb is gentle but steady, reaching 561 meters above sea level. Arrival in Adrano is expected in the early afternoon. The evening will be spent relaxing and recharging at the second hostel, the perfect time to replenish your energy and supplies for the next stage of the journey.
Day 3: Adrano to Mount Etna
The morning begins with a meeting at 8:00 AM with Etna guide Daniele Corso, who will lead you into the volcanic park. During the 13 km trek with a 700-meter elevation gain, we will explore extinct craters, pass through breathtaking landscapes, and arrive at Piano dei Grilli. The day will end at the Monte Ruvolo refuge, where we will set up the first bivouac under the stars for the night. Tents will be provided by the organization.
Day 4: Exploring Mount Etna
A full day dedicated to exploring the heart of Mount Etna. During the 9.5 km trek with a 500-meter elevation gain, you'll have the chance to admire centuries-old oak trees that have withstood lava flows, a testament to nature's resilience. Equipped with helmets, trekking poles, and other technical gear, you'll uncover hidden caves and breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes. The day will end at the Bosco di Maletto refuge, one of the most remote on the volcano, where we’ll spend the night under a starry sky that highlights the grandeur of Etna.
Day 5: Descent to Randazzo
Wake up early to begin your descent toward the medieval town of Randazzo. Wander its cobbled streets and take in its historical charm before preparing for your return to Catania by car or shared transport. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers as the journey concludes.
Day 6: Return to Catania and Farewell
The day begins early, with a sunrise departure to catch the 7:00 or 7:30 AM bus. In about two hours, we’ll arrive in Catania, marking the official end of our journey. For those interested, there will be an opportunity to explore the city and its attractions. By lunchtime, everyone will be free to go, with fond farewells until the next adventure!
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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Additional Info
Ready to go? Just the usual doubts?
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