Europe's Tallest Volcano Is Among The World's Most Active With A Thrilling Hike & Fiery Views

According to the British Geological Survey, there are around 1,500 active volcanoes on Earth. Perhaps surprisingly, 82 of those volcanoes are located in Europe, which is not necessarily the continent that comes to mind when you think of active volcanoes. You might first think of Central America, with Guatemala's ever-erupting El Fuego or the epic volcano boarding experience in Nicaragua. While a majority Europe's volcanoes are found on the road trip-worthy island of Iceland, the continent's most notable volcanoes can be found in Italy. Known for its food, fashion, and flare, the country is also home to Europe's tallest active volcano, Mount Etna. Among the world's most volatile volcanoes, Etna offers tourists a truly unique experience: a thrilling hike with fiery views.

Located on the island of Sicily, Italy's most southerly region, Mount Etna has been consistently erupting for more than 500,000 years. An enormous stratovolcano, Etna is known for its highly visible promontory, which rises nearly 11,000 feet above the seaside town of Catania. One of the most beautiful of all of Italy's cities, especially if you are visiting Italy in the fall, Catania is the base of operations for many who want to admire Etna, either up close or far away.

There are plenty of airlines that offer direct flights from around Europe to Catania, which makes it incredibly easy to access ... or evacuate should the need arise. While there are other towns around Etna worth visiting, such as Messina and Taormina, Catania is certainly the largest and most heavily trafficked of the three, making it all the more tourist friendly.

Before we get into how exactly to hike this iconic Sicilian peak, we need to discuss safety. Mount Etna is an active volcano that has been in a near-constant state of eruption since 2022, but not all of these eruptions are dangerous. They can actually be quite breathtaking when viewed from a safe distance. However, that does not mean that there is no potential for serious trouble, as recent events have shown.

On June 2, 2025, Etna erupted with what is called a pyroclastic flow — a fast-moving surge of hot ash, rocks, and gas that travels quickly away from a volcanic vent or collapsing flow front. Pyroclastic flows can be extremely destructive and deadly because of their high temperature and rapid mobility. A dramatic video was captured of the recent eruption on Etna, showing hundreds of tourists running away from the pyroclastic flow as it descended down the mountainside. Fortunately, no deaths were reported.

As the video demonstrates, hiking Mount Etna can be dangerous. While the hike itself is not strenuous and does not lead right to the rim of the crater, hikers need to be aware of the risks. Remember, Etna is the most volatile and active volcano in Italy, and is best explored with an experienced guide. Hiking alone or straying from the trodden path can have serious consequences, and some tourists have had serious or fatal accidents unrelated to an eruption.

Free hiking is restricted up to 8,200 feet. Experienced hikers looking to get closer to the summit will need to do so with a guide. While there are innumerable guide services, check to see that they are part of the Regional College of Sicilian Alpine and Volcanology Guides to get the best experience. Guided treks are your best bet at getting a fully encompassing tour of Etna.

The richness of the volcanic soil makes the area a tremendous place for spotting unique flora and fauna. Several farms, olive groves, and vineyards dot the base and outskirts of the mountain, and you might see hawks, hares, wild cats, foxes, eagles, and pine martens during your visit. If you'd rather relax than take on an adventurous trek, there are several day trips from Catania that host wine tasting tours and feature local wines made from grapes grown on the slopes of the volcano.

The ideal time to visit Mt. Etna is in the late spring through early fall. As for gear, make sure that you have good hiking apparel, such as sturdy shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, and hiking poles. Once you have those things, prepare yourself for what could be the most exciting hike of your life.