8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
CATANIA | ETNA | LAVA COASTLINES | VOLCANIC CAVING | TAORMINA | ALCANTARA GORGE | CAVAGRANDE DEL CASSIBILE
COD. KS19-06
ABOUT THIS TOUR
A high-adrenaline expedition to discover the wild heart of Eastern Sicily. From the depths of volcanic lava tubes to the summits of Europe’s highest active volcano, through coastal kayaking along basalt cliffs, canyoning down roaring rapids, and breathtaking alpine treks. A perfectly balanced itinerary blending outdoor sports, pristine nature, teamwork, and geological wonders—designed for an unforgettable journey.
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1 – Welcome to Sicily: Arrival in Catania & Urban Orienteering
Arrival at Catania Airport followed by an educational urban orienteering walk with a local guide through Catania’s historic center, discovering the city’s main museums and iconic landmarks. Transfer to the accommodation, welcome dinner, and overnight stay.
DAY 2 – The Two Faces of Mount Etna: Sartorius Craters Trekking & Valle del Bove Overlook
Breakfast and departure for Mount Etna North. Guided intro trek on the volcano along the easy nature trail of the Sartorius Craters, ideal for getting used to walking on loose volcanic terrain. Transfer to Mount Etna South for a steady uphill climb on volcanic scree toward Schiena dell’Asino, reaching a spectacular overlook above the majestic Valle del Bove (~2,000 m). Return to the accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 3 – Kayaking on Lava Coasts & Agility on Two Wheels: Coastal Kayak & Etna MTB
Breakfast at the accommodation. The morning is dedicated to exploring the lava coastline of Catania by kayak, paddling through sea caves and past traditional fishing villages. In the afternoon, head into the pine forests and trails of Mount Etna for a guided Mountain Bike excursion across old lava flows, refining technical skills and coordination in a natural environment. Return to the accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 4 – Into the Bowels of the Earth & High-Altitude Trekking: Caving & Pista Altomontana
After breakfast, technical safety briefing with speleological instructors, gear fitting, and a safe exploration of a lava tube cave. Afterwards, transfer to higher altitude for an immersive trek along a scenic stretch of Etna’s Pista Altomontana, hiking past forestry huts and vast fields of volcanic rock. Return to the accommodation for relaxation, group dinner, and overnight stay.
DAY 5 – Taormina between History and Sea: Ancient Theatre & Isola Bella
Breakfast and departure toward the Ionian Coast for a day of active recovery and culture. Guided tour and scenic stroll through Taormina, including entry to the famous Ancient Greek Theatre overlooking the sea. In the afternoon, descend to the bay of Isola Bella for self-guided exploration of the nature reserve and relaxation on the beach. Return to the accommodation in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 6 – Adrenaline & Rapids: Canyoning in the Alcantara Gorge
Breakfast at the accommodation and departure for the Alcantara Valley. Meet the river guides for an exciting canyoning descent through basalt gorges using ropes, harnesses, and wetsuits—a dynamic team-building experience to “wash away” the volcanic dust. Afternoon at leisure to relax. Return to the accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 7 – The Hyblaean Grand Canyon: Cavagrande del Cassibile
Breakfast at the accommodation and transfer to the Hyblaean Plateau to hike down into the deep limestone canyon of Cavagrande del Cassibile, reaching its natural freshwater pools. Swimming and relaxing in crystal-clear waters, followed by an emotional trip debriefing with the group. Return to the accommodation for a special farewell dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 8 – Departure: Farewell Sicily!
After breakfast, check-out from the accommodation and transfer to Catania Airport for departure. Farewell Sicily!