Etna erupting: how to visit it safely and experience the spectacle of the volcano

Etna is giving one of its most fascinating shows these days: lava, flashes and volcanic activity they are attracting visitors from all over the world. But just when the volcano shows all its strength, it is even more important to approach Etna with caution and responsibility.

For those staying in Villa Maria in Giarre, Etna is one of the unmissable experiences of eastern Sicily. But how to organize an excursion safely?

Etna erupting: inform yourself before leaving

The first rule is simple: Etna is an active volcano and conditions can change rapidly.

Because of this, before organizing one excursion to Etna, it is essential to always check for updatesINGV, of the Civil Protection and any ordinances of the Municipalities involved.

You must never cross barriers, prohibitions or closed routes, even if apparently the area seems safe.

Better to rely on an expert guide

When Etna is active, one of the most important choices is rely on a qualified guide, especially for excursions at high altitude.

The provisions of the Etna Park provide that the areas subject to guided use must be accessed accompanied by authorized personnel. The authorities also recommend strictly respecting the permitted routes and limitations established based on the level of risk.

A guide is not just used to orient yourself along the paths: knows the area, knows how to evaluate the conditions of the route and can modify the itinerary based on the indications of the authorities and the evolution of volcanic activity.

The advice is therefore not to improvise an excursion to the areas affected by the eruptive activity.

Clothing: on Etna it is not enough to dress for summer

Even during the hottest days, at high altitude conditions can be very different from those found on the coast.

For an excursion it is advisable to use:

• trekking boots with adequate sole;
• long trousers and comfortable clothing;
• a windproof and waterproof jacket;
• hat and sunglasses;
• water in sufficient quantity;
• sun cream;
• charged cell phone;
• a small flashlight, especially if foreseen by the route.

The official indications for excursions at high altitude expressly recall the need to have boots, windbreaker, cap, water, food, cell phone and flashlight, also considering the possibility of sudden weather changes.

Be careful of ash, gas and soil conditions

Volcanic activity doesn't just mean seeing lava. Ash, gas, volcanic material, Unstable terrain and sudden changes in conditions can pose risks.

This is why it is important do not approach lava fronts or eruptive vents and always keep to the distances indicated by guides and authorities.

Volcanic ash can also make breathing more difficult and reduce visibility. In the presence of emissions or dispersion of ash it is therefore advisable to follow the official instructions and the guide.

A volcano to admire, not to be challenged

Etna offers an extraordinary spectacle precisely because it is a live volcano. However, it is not necessary to get as close as possible to the lava to have this experience.

Safety comes before the show.

Based on current conditions, a guide can indicate panoramic points and authorized routes from which to observe volcanic activity without exposing oneself unnecessarily to danger.

Furthermore, the ordinances regulating access to the summit quotas may change in relation to the conditions of the volcano: it is therefore important always check the provisions in force on the day of the excursion.

From the coast of Giarre to the majesty of Etna

Stay at Villa Maria, in Giarre, it means being in a privileged position to discover eastern Sicily: on one side the Ionian Sea, on the other, Etna and its landscapes.

The excursion to the volcano can thus become one of the most exciting experiences of the holiday, but to be experienced with the right preparation.

Get informed, choose a qualified guide, wearing the appropriate equipment and always respecting official prohibitions and indications are the fundamental rules for enjoying Etna safely.

And when the volcano offers one of its most beautiful shows, the best way to experience it is to do it with respect, awareness and wonder.