Page 320 - The Rough Guide of Sicily

main crater in an attempt to prove that the gases emitted would support his body
weight. They didn’t.

The higher reaches of Etna resemble a lunar landscape, the ground underfoot
alternately black, grey or red depending on the age of the lava. The most recent stuff
lies in great folds; below, the red roofs and green fields of the lower hills stretch
away to the sea. You’ll not be in any danger, provided you stay within the limit that is
currently deemed safe to reach. Note that ascending the volcano is only possible

between about May and October; the rest of the time, it’s swathed in snow. For
obvious reasons, access to the upper reaches of Etna, around the craters, is strictly
controlled – current volcanic activity and weather conditions will dictate how far up
you’ll be able to go.

However you go, at whatever time of year, take warm clothes, good shoes or boots
and glasses to keep the flying grit out of your eyes. You can rent boots and jackets

cheaply from the Etna Sud cable-car station. Food up the mountain is poor and
overpriced, so you might want to bring a picnic.