I am going to Sicily, and I have a day allocated to exploring Mt. Etna. My husband and I enjoy hiking, so we thought this might be an opportunity. Does anyone have any advice on hiking in the vicinity of Etna? Is it a good idea? Is it better to get a guide or is it doable by ourselves (we have a car)?

Thank you in advance!

Kelly,
We went up Mt Etna last year by jeep, cable car, and then the final leg in four wheel drive vehicles. Once we were on the mountain we were able to hike the ridges with alpine guides to the site of some of the last eruptions. There was a building at the base of the mountain to buy tickets. It was an amazing experience, nothing but grey and iron streaked smoking rocks and ash as far as the eye could see.

Hope this helps,
Cracker

Hi
You can easily use your car to reach the Sapienza refugee at about 1.900 meters. At the refugee you will find restaurants, bar and shops. At the refugee there is a huge parking place where you can leave your car. Then if you would like to go higher, take the cable + jeep excursion. It will be an amazing experience, also because we had a little eruption last month. (Nothing dangerous).