Hiking on Mount Etna along Monte Nero degli Zappini trail
Activity
Hiking Tours
Minimum age
No age restrictions
Languages
English, Italian
Note
No licence needed
Meeting place
Nicolosi
At our Info Point at Esagonal (Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza Etna Sud, 95030, Nicolosi CT)
Free cancellation with full refund up to 24 hours before the start of the activity
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.
FAQ
Offers by Etna Esagonal Trekking Tour Nicolosi2 Reviews5 Offers
Is hotel pick-up available, and how do I request it?
Yes, a pick-up service is available. Please contact the provider after completing your booking to make use of this service.
Is the hike difficult?
No, this is an easy loop trail that is suitable for everyone, including families with children and the elderly.
What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age to participate in this activity is 5 years.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, you are allowed to bring your dog on this hike.
Is hiking equipment provided?
Yes, the necessary hiking equipment is included and will be provided for you.
What should I bring with me?
You should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a bottle of water, and some snacks.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the Info Point in Esagonal, in the Piazzale del Rifugio Sapienza Etna Sud. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the activity.
What happens if the minimum number of participants is not reached?
This activity requires a minimum of 6 participants. If this number is not reached, the activity will be rescheduled or you will receive a full refund.
Is the trail accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
No, the trail is not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
From
15 €
The checkyeti guarantee1-click cancellation7 days/week support100% price clarity
The activity Hiking on Mount Etna along Monte Nero degli Zappini trail by Etna Esagonal Trekking Tour Nicolosi in Nicolosi is available every day, from August 20, 2026 through December 30, 2026. Each day offers 1 start time at 11:00. Sessions last 2.5 hours and are offered as group activities. Prices start from €15.00 for kids and €25.00 for adults.
