Updated October 2026
The most common mistake on Etna is dressing for the beach. Temperature drops by roughly 6–7 °C for every 1,000 metres, and the wind on the upper slopes is often strong. A warm day in Catania can be close to freezing at the summit craters.
Shoes
Closed shoes with a good grip are essential — the volcanic sand and sharp lava stones destroy sandals and soft trainers. Hiking boots or trail shoes are ideal for summit hikes; solid trainers are fine for the Silvestri craters and lava cave tours. Some summit tours rent boots.
Clothing
- Long trousers — protect against wind, sun and sharp rocks.
- Layers: a T-shirt, a fleece or warm sweater and a windproof jacket.
- Hat or buff — for sun during the day and warmth at sunset.
- Gloves in spring, autumn and winter, and for sunset tours.
What to bring
- Sunglasses and sun cream — the sun is strong at altitude, even when it feels cold.
- At least one litre of water per person, more for summit hikes.
- A small backpack and a snack.
- Your phone or camera — and a power bank for the long sunset shots.
Helmets for lava caves and the summit area are provided by the guides.
By season
- Summer: light layers, but always pack a jacket.
- Spring and autumn: warm jacket, gloves and hat.
- Winter: full winter clothing and waterproof boots — the upper slopes are under snow.
Check the best time to visit Mount Etna and the Etna cable car guide before you go.
