Mount Etna in Sicily is drawing in thousands of thrill-seeking tourists from around the world with its mesmerizing sights of fiery lava oozing from between black rocks meeting the pristine white snow blanketing the mountain. The volcano erupts frequently, but even when it’s active, many trails and paths are still safe for hikers and photographers. However, above certain altitudes, it is a legal requirement to go up with a qualified mountain guide who can keep visitors safe and provide a wealth of knowledge about the volcano. Since the current eruption began on 11 February, thousands of visitors have been arriving to witness the energy emanating from one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
For expert guides like Asia Pioro and Saro Trovato, visiting Mount Etna during an eruption remains an exciting and unique experience. They describe the columns of gas and ash in the air, the explosions that sound like thunder, the breaking glass sounds of cooling lava, and the feeling of heat radiating from fresh lava flows. The experience is a mix of awe and adrenaline, with the ground sometimes vibrating under your feet and the strong scent of sulphur in the air. Visitors often react with surprise and excitement when witnessing an eruption, and guides enjoy seeing their guests’ reactions when experiencing the raw power of Etna up close.
It is essential to hike Mount Etna safely during an eruption, and expert guides play a crucial role in ensuring visitors’ safety. Guides are experts in safety, knowing the territory well, recognising dangers, and being in contact with volcanologists and rescuers in case of accidents. They also receive real-time updates on conditions, which can change rapidly on the high mountain. However, hikers should also be prepared and aware of the dangers, wearing proper clothing, studying the route in advance, maintaining a safe distance from areas of volcanic activity, and taking wind direction into account to avoid falling material. Authorities are growing concerned over safety with the current influx of hikers parking on narrow streets around Mount Etna, causing traffic jams and preventing rescue vehicles from getting through.
The guides at Mount Etna share a love for witnessing the volcanic outbursts and the reactions of their guests. They see the experience as a mix of marvel and fear, with tourists coming from all over the world to admire the spectacle. The raw power of Etna up close is described as a fantastic mix of excitement and adrenaline. Guests’ reactions vary, with some considering witnessing an eruption as a bucket-list challenge, while others arrive without any knowledge or expectations about volcanoes. However, they all share the same excitement in experiencing the volcano’s energy up close. The sights and sounds of an eruption, such as the glowing lava against the dark volcanic landscape and the rumbling sounds similar to a giant tiger in a cage, leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Tourists should always check volcanic activity updates from local authorities and respect any access restrictions to ensure their safety when visiting Mount Etna. As the authorities express concerns over safety due to the increasing number of visitors causing traffic congestion and blocking rescue vehicles, it is crucial for hikers to follow guidelines provided by expert guides and local authorities. The mix of marvel and fear that visitors experience when witnessing the raw power of Etna up close is a testament to the volcano’s awe-inspiring beauty and the importance of being prepared and aware of the potential dangers when exploring its slopes. With the guidance of expert mountain guides, visitors can safely admire and appreciate the unique and captivating natural phenomena that Mount Etna has to offer.
