ETNA VOLCANO HELICOPTER GROUP FLIGHT
30 minutes shared flight with other passengers
Euro 300 per person
HeliSicily offers the Etna volcano aerial tour which has the longest duration (30 min) and the best price!
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INSTANT CONFIRMATION AND FREE CANCELLATION
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance of the flight to get a full refund
GROUP TOUR DESCRIPTION
After take-off, the helicopter will proceed northwards along the volcano, flying over the towns of Piedimonte Etneo and Linguaglossa. During the ascent, passengers can admire the majestic coniferous forest and the old lava flows that descend close to the villages of Etna.
As the helicopter ascends nearer to the peaks, it will fly over the Piano Provenzana ski resort, affording unique views of the flows that formed the series of craters known as "La Bottoniera"; here, the vegetation ends and is replaced by the sciara that leads up to the magnificent views of the 4 summit craters.
We are at an altitude of approximately 3,500 metres and the view from here encompasses the whole of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands and Calabria. The helicopter will begin its descent along the volcano's more rugged side to reach the Sapienza ski resort and refuge. From here, passengers will enjoy unique views of the city of Catania and the Gulf.
Proceeding eastwards, we will fly over the old, extinct Silvestri Craters before passing over the "Schiena dell'asilo" ridge that leads to the vast Valle del Bove. We will survey the 1992 lava flows that almost destroyed the village of Zafferana Etnea. After a final look at the coast between Catania and Taormina, the vineyards and lush crops, it will be time to return.
GROUP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- The majestic Etna summit craters (Voragine, Bocca Nuova, North-East Crater, South-East Crater).
- The ancient Etna dead craters located at lower altitudes.
- The lava flow that destroyed the northern ski centre of Piano Provenzana.
- The Coniferous forest of the north side of the volcano.
- The lava flows that formed the series of craters called "La Bottoniera".
- Views over the whole of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands and Calabria.
- South side of the volcano and Rifugio Sapienza.
- Views of the city of Catania.
- The ancient craters called "Silvestri".
- The immense Valley of "Bove".
- The lava flows of 1991-1993 that destroied part of the town "Zafferana Etnea".
- Sartorius mountains craters and the Betulle Aetnensis forest.
- The Monti de Fiore and the 1974 lava flows.
- The coast line that connects Catania to Taormina.
- The vineyards and the wineries that make Etna DOC wine.
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Helicopter AS 350 (max 5 seats + pilot)
- Take-off: Fiumefreddo Helipad
Via Catania Messina, 14, 95013 Fiumefreddo di Sicilia CT, Italy - Bottled water
- Wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant / cardiovascular-heart disease travellers
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather or technical problems, you’ll be offered a different date
Book your Etna helicopter tour
The helicopter flight above Mount Etna offers guests a once-in-a- lifetime opportunity to experience the majesty of an active volcano. As the flight departs, passengers ascend over pine forests and lava flows, gaining a bird’s-eye view of Etna’s massive volcanic landscape. The pilot carefully chooses a route to optimise safety as well as sightseeing. Guests may fly close to the summit craters, including the central crater that contains the active lava lake and the smoke plumes can often be witnessed from the air. As the flight continues, sweeping views of Catania, Taormina and the Ionian Sea come into sight. The return flight provides a final panoramic view of Etna’s summit and a last chance to capture photos of the volcano’s dramatic landscapes. The Etna volcano helicopter flight provide from HeliSicily offers a thrilling aerial encounter with an infamous active volcano and showcases the raw beauty and power of nature. Witnessing Etna from the air provides a perspective unattainable by any ground tour, an experience that will remain with visitors long after leaving Sicily. Booking an Etna helicopter flight tour is highly recommended for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure on the island.
Prepare for your flight
When planning an excursion to witness Etna volcano's grandeur, a helicopter tour offers a singular experience of the massive landmark. To schedule an aerial encounter with Europe’s largest active volcano, book in advance from March through October when weather conditions are most favorable for flights. Private helicopter tours of Etna can accommodate up to 5 passengers. As you soar over the volcanic peak, a vast tapestry of natural wonder unfolds below, from the volcano’s ashen cone to forests and orchards dotting its lower slopes. Circling the crater, you may glimpse bursts of fire and smoke rising from the volcano’s mouth.
Etna: an active Sicilian volcano
Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, is located in Sicily, Italy. It is a magnificent natural wonder that has captivated people for centuries. Situated on the east coast of Sicily, Mount Etna dominates the landscape with its impressive size and constant volcanic activity. It stands tall at approximately 3400 meters (11150 feet) and covers an area of about 1,190 square kilometers (460 square miles). The volcanic activity of Mount Etna has shaped the surrounding region over thousands of years, creating a unique ecosystem and fertile soil that supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The volcanic ash and lava flows have contributed to the growth of lush forests, vineyards, and orchards. The location of Mount Etna in Sicily makes it easily accessible for visitors from all over the world. The volcano is located near the cities of Catania and Taormina, both popular tourist destinations in Sicily. Tourists and adventure enthusiasts flock to Mount Etna to witness its awe-inspiring beauty and experience the thrill of being close to an active volcano. There are various ways to explore the volcano, ranging from guided hikes to cable car rides that take you closer to the summit, but the only way to peer inside the active craters is a helicopter tour. One of the highlights of visiting Mount Etna is the opportunity to witness its volcanic activity up close. The volcano often emits steam, smoke, and small eruptions, creating a mesmerizing sight for onlookers. However, it is important to note that safety precautions should always be followed, as volcanic activity can be unpredictable. In addition to its natural beauty and geological significance, Mount Etna holds cultural and historical importance. The volcano has been revered by ancient civilizations and is surrounded by myths and legends. It has also been a subject of study for scientists and researchers, providing valuable insights into the Earth's geology and volcanic processes. Overall, Mount Etna's location in Sicily, Italy, makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in geology. Its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and volcanic activity create a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. So if you ever find yourself in Sicily, don't miss the chance to witness the grandeur of Mount Etna.
Frequently Asked Questions About Etna Helicopter Tours
Before booking an Etna helicopter tour, many visitors have questions regarding what to expect from this unique experience. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers:
What can we expect to see? During the flight, you can expect to see the summit craters, including the Voragine and Bocca Nuova craters, as well as the Valle del Bove depression and recent lava flows. You may also spot volcanic gases and fumaroles emitting from the craters. The surrounding vistas include the Ionian Sea, the Catania Plain, and the Peloritani Mountains.
What safety measures are in place? Passenger safety is the top priority. The helicopters are specially equipped for high-altitude flights and volcano observation. They comply with the strictest safety standards and are operated by experienced pilots with extensive training. All necessary safety gear like noise-cancelling headphones and seatbells are provided to passengers.
What to wear: Dress in comfortable layers for variable temperatures, bring sunglasses, camera, smartphone.
How far in advance should I check-in for a Etna helicopter tour? Arrive at the helipad at least 15 minutes before your scheduled flight time for check-in and a safety briefing. Your pilot will determine the exact flight path based on weather and volcanic conditions on the day of your tour.
