Itinerary (15 days)
Day 1: Arrival in Naples
The historic center of Naples
Fish on a market in the center of Naples
The port of Naples
On the first day you make your own way to Naples and our hotel with roof terrace in the center of the lively and colorful old town of Naples. Depending on your arrival time you can use the afternoon to have a rest or start exploring the city center. In the evening the group comes together for an aperitif and dinner in a small trattoria (=local restaurant) where excellent food and great ambiance are served.
Day 2: Vesuvius volcano, wine tasting and Herculaneum
Hike along the summit crater of Vesuvius
Italian delicacies and wine at a local vineyard
The ruins of Herculaneum and Vesuvius volcano
In the morning we drive through the city of Naples and its suburbs to the upper flanks of Mt Vesuvius and then walk (easy hike, ca. 30 min.) to the summit crater of the volcano which last erupted in 1944. A special authorization allows us to hike around the whole summit crater (ca. 1 hr). From the rim, we can look down into its still smoking vent, across the dense urban development that is problematically close to the volcano and take in the unforgettable views over the Gulf of Naples with the city itself and the islands of Capri and Ischia.
On our way back, we stop at the scenic Valle dell'Inferno for a short walk to explore the youngest lava flow from the volcano´s 1944 eruption. Lunch will be in a charming rural setting at a local wine-producer where we'll enjoy delicious Italian cuisine and taste the local wines grown on the slopes of Vesuvius.
In the afternoon, we go on to visit the excavations of the Roman town of Herculaneum, destroyed by hot pyroclastic surges and mud flows from Vesuvius´s famous eruption in 79 A.D. For a typical Napoletarean dinner, we walk to a pizzeria or trattoria at the small fishing harbor of Naples, in a superb setting next to the majestic 11th century castle built on a small promontory at the waterfront.
Day 3: Vesuvius volcano observatory and Pompeii
Old monitoring equipment at the historic Vesuvius volcano observatory
Walking in the 2000 year old ruins of the roman city of Pompeii
Colourful mural decoration in one of the better preserved villas
In the morning we return to the slopes of Mt Vesuvius to visit the oldest volcano observatory in the world. Nowadays it is a small but interesting museum offering information on the volcano´s growth, minerals and eruptions as well as the development of volcano monitoring.
The afternoon is dedicated to explore the world's most famous archaeological site, the Roman city of Pompeii, where everyday life came to a sudden halt when in 79 AD Mt Vesuvius violently erupted and buried the city by a heavy fall out of pumice rocks. The visit includes a guided tour of about 1.5 hours as well as extra time to freely explore the ruins of this large historic site. We also program a complementary visit to the fascinating exhibition at the museum Antiquario di Boscoreale where they showcase numerous objects that were found at Pompeii and which illustrate the sophisticated culture and daily life in this city some 2000 years ago.
Day 4: Campi Flegrei (Phlegrean Fields) and Pozzuoli
Photographing sulphur deposits and fumaroles at Solfatara volcano
One of the many cinder cones and volcanic craters of the Phlegrean Fields
Evening light over the Gulf of Naples
This day is dedicated to discover the second major and potentially very dangerous (but much less known) volcanic area near Naples: the Phlegrean Fields. We have a first stop at a viewpoint across the northern part of the Gulf of Naples and towards the island of Ischia. Then we set out to explore the Solfatara volcano which is still active and has many hot fumaroles, bubbling mud pools and sulphur deposits.
After lunch we continue our journey of this area that is dotted with volcanic cones, crater lakes and Roman ruins. Depending on time etc, we can visit the historically born volcano of Monte Nuovo, the large caldera lake Lago di Averna, a medieval castle near the site where a Roman city has sunk beneath water level and the small fishing town of Pozzuoli where evidence of recent tectonic activity (strong ground uplift) is visibly preserved in the historic Roman market square. For a wonderful sunset view over the Bay of Naples, we head to Capo Miseno: the very site from where Plinius observed the eruption of Vesuvius volcano in 79 A.D ! We conclude the day with a delicious dinner of fresh seafood at a local taverna right on the beach.
Day 5: Free day and evening departure for Lipari
View over the city of Naples at the foot of Mt Vesuvius
Ruins of Pompeii and Vesuvius volcano in the background
Having an aperitif in a local bar in the center of Naples
Our last day in Naples is free for you to discover the city on your own and/or via an optional guided visit to the historic center of town which includes the Greek/Roman catacombs. A second visit to the vast ruins of Pompeii is also an option as the site is easily accessible by train, or a visit of the archeological museum close to the hotel or a short walk and climb by a cable car to the Castel St. Elmo viewpoint from a large medieval castle towering over the city centre.
In the evening we embark on a ferry to the Eolian islands that leaves from Naples around 8pm, but before we do so we enjoy Naples'unrivaled cuisine one last time in a local trattoria or pizzeria. On board the ship, Naples'lights are slowly fading and we spend the night in double-bed cabins.
Day 6: Arrival on Lipari Island: obsidian & pumice
The colorful old town of Lipari
Obsidian with spherolites from Lipari´s historic lava flow
View onto pumice cliffs and old quarry
As we approach Stromboli around early dawn, most of us will already be up (you can be woken up in time if you wish) in order to observe the red firework-like eruptions from Stromboli - hence its nick name "Lighthouse of the Tyrrhenian Sea". We sail on and disembark on Lipari Island where we will stay the next 2 nights in a charming hotel at the waterfront of the lively town. Upon arrival and check-in you have some time to settle in, relax or explore the neighbourhood.
We meet up after lunch for a hike to the island´s world-famous obsidian flow and pumice deposits. These are both text-book examples of spectacular young volcanic features and were intensely used and traded throughout the Mediterranean in historic times. In the evening we walk into the small colourful town of Lipari to enjoy the delicious Eolian cuisine in one of the many small restaurants.
Day 7: Archeological museum of Lipari and day trip to Vulcano Island
Vulcano´s active "La Fossa" crater with Lipari in the background
Sulphur deposits and crystals around an active fumrole vent
Volcanic "spa" (warm mud pools) on Vulcano Island
After breakfast, we visit the highly interesting archaeological museum of Lipari which is situated in the ancient Acropolis of the town.We then take a short hydrofoil ride to neighboring Vulcano island where we'll spend ca. 4-5 hours discovering the volcanic phenomena. First we climb the active crater "La Fossa" which last erupted in 1888 (300m high, ca. 1hr climb), hike around the rim and explore its fumarole fields and sulphur deposits. Upon returning to the port there is the possibility to try out the volcanic hot mud ponds and/or warm fumaroles on the beach. In the afternoon, we return to Lipari where we'll have dinner in one of the island's most acclaimed fish restaurants.
Day 8: Arrival on Stromboli Island and eruption viewing from the Sciara del Fuoco
The hotel in Stromboli is build on top of the lava cliffs and has a small private beach
View onto Stromboli´s active summit area and Sciara del Fuoco, the large ash slope from where freshly ejected material rolls into the sea
Watching the sun set over the Eolian islands from the Sciara del Fuoco viewpoint
After breakfast and perhaps a last swim we leave Lipari and travel by speed boat to Stromboli. Upon arrival, our luggage will be transferred to a nice hotel at the seafront using the local 3-wheeled "ape" motor-vehicles, whilst we take a short walk along the beach road to reach our hotel (often rated as one of the best by our guests!). The rest of the morning and lunchtime are free for you to relax, swim in the nice sea or explore the unique ambiance of Stromboli.
In the afternoon, we hike to a beautiful viewpoint on the Sciara del Fuoco, from where we have an excellent view to the active craters and the large ash slope where glowing blocks often roll down into the sea. We conclude the day with dinner at a uniquely located pizzeria nearby from where the eruptions are still visible.
Day 9: Climb to Stromboli's summit (if access allowed) and eruption viewing
Hiking to Stromboli volcano´s summit along the old pathway besides the Sciara del Fuoco
Larger explosion of bursting lava bubble from the NE vent
Simultaneous eruption from different active vents on Stromboli´s crater terrace
After breakfast and a free morning (time to swim or stroll around in the picturesque village) we pack our day-packs and prepare for the rarely undertaken and unusual 3-4 hours climb to Stromboli´s summit along the Sciara del Fuoco.
Around sunset we arrive at a natural viewpoint at 918 m asl which is located directly above the active craters. From here, one can (cautiously!) observe the explosions from several active craters from very close range - one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles of nature, so please be warned that this is where you might become addicted to volcanoes… After enjoying Stromboli´s fireworks for about one hour we start the descend via a different route that brings us quickly down a steep sandy slope back to the village of Stromboli (about 1.5 hrs).
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Note:
Depending on the level of the volcanic activity, access to Stromboli's summit can be closed and in such circumstances the excursion can only go to a viewpoint above the Sciara del Fuoco at 400 m asl.
Day 10: Boat tour around Stromboli island and free afternoon
Stromboli island and the volcano´s summit seen from the port
Strombolicchio, the volcanic neck from Stromboli´s predecessor
Lunch on the Eolian islands can be a real feast!
After breakfast we embark on a scenic boat tour around the island (ca. 3 hours). We first take a closer look at Strombolicchio, the tiny islet of vertical rock cliffs that is all that remains of the volcano that was the predecessor of Stromboli. We then visit the secluded village of Ginostra on the opposite side of the island before continuing our around-the-clock round trip and sailing right in front of the Sciara del Fuoco.
After a light lunch in the village of Stromboli you have the rest of the day free. Besides swimming, relaxing and enjoying the village atmosphere your options include a second climb to the summit craters, a hike to the viewpoint at the Sciara del Fuoco, or a boat trip at night.
Day 11: Transfer to Etna
A small ash plume drifting away from Etna´s summit area seen from Catania
Etna´s southern lower slopes with lava flows and cinder cones at dusk
First snow covers the upper slopes and summit area of Mt Etna
In the morning we take the hydrofoil speedboat to the port of Milazzo on Sicily. From there travel by minibus to Mt Etna where we check in to our comfortable hotel, uniquely located on the volcano´s flanks at an altitude of 1900 m asl.
Depending on the weather and volcanic activity, we can make a short walk on Etna's flanks (easy, ca. 2.5-3 hrs) to start exploring the different volcanic deposits, structures and landscapes of Europe´s most active volcano. The hike will take us to a viewpoint that offers spectacular views both towards Etna´s summit area as the impressive Valle del Bove and its many lava flows.
Day 12: Excursion to Etna's summit craters (volcanic activity allowing)
Standing the crater of Bocca Nuova, one of Etna's summit craters
October 2013 view onto Etna´s summit area with different craters and an only 3 day old lava flow coming down in between
Descend through a volcanic moonscape of ash, scoria and cinder cones back to the hotel
After a copious breakfast from the buffet we gather at the reception for a long day of hiking. We start our ascend with the cable car and then take special jeeps to quickly reach about 2700 m elevation before we continue on foot. Weather conditions and volcanic activity permitting, we can climb one or several of the summit craters of Etna, explore there fumaroles and sulphur fields and stare down into the smoking vents. From the summit craters we make our way back to the hotel on food, descending along a variety of unique landscapes and vegetation as well as interesting volcanic features, for example the cinder cones that formed in single eruptions in 2001 and 2002-2003 and old lava flow channels. Back at the hotel we restore our energies with a delicious 3-course dinner and local red wine.
Day 13: Etna excursion to Valle del Bove
View down into the Valle del Bove from Etna´s summit area
Descend into the Valle del Bove (this is great fun!)
Autumn colours on the Valle´s steep cliff faces
This day could be exchanged with the previous day and is again fully dedicated to Etna's upper region and sites of possible volcanic activity (if accessible). Normally this day will be used to discover one of Etna's most spectacular features: the Valle del Bove, a giant depression formed by repeated flank collapses of the volcano. From ca. 2500m altitude we descend into the Valle del Bove, along an extremely steep but soft sandy slope where we can run or slide down as if skiing (great fun and not dangerous!) in order to descend about 1000 m in less than 15 minutes. At the bottom of the giant depression an almost alien and rarely visited landscape awaits us... Surrounded by magnificent volcanic dikes and steep walls of ancient lava rocks, we are on the vast lava fields from the 1991-1993 eruption. Along an unmarked but easy trail we cross the Valle del Bove until we reach one of its lowest points of the SW border where we can easily climb out. From there we take a path downhill through forests, along a giant vertical basalt wall and to one of the very few springs at Etna before arriving at the road from where we are transferred back to the hotel. This evening there we will drive down to the lively village of Nicolosi for an aperitif in a local bar on the lively piazza before having our well-deserved Sicilian dinner in a busy garden restaurant.
Day 14: Lava cave - Alcantara Gorge - Taormina - Catania
The Gorge of the river Alcantara
View across the amphitheater in Taormina
The historic Sicilian town of Taormina
If we don't choose to return to the summit area of Etna, we have this day to explore some of the many other highlights around the giant volcano. We drive anti-clockwise around Etna´s southern flank along a very scenic route and visit an interesting lava cave where we can walk through. Our journey then continues around the scenic eastern flank of the volcano where we visit one of Etna's natural wonders: the deep lava gorge cut out by the river Alcantara on the NE-side of the mountain. We admire the basaltic columns that make up the gorge´s steep cliffs and take our time for a light lunch and some swimming.
In the afternoon we pay a visit to Taormina, surely one of Sicily's most famous and beautiful towns, where we will walk through its medieval center and visit the still functional Ancient Greek theater. We then continue to the lively town of Catania which we reach in the evening and where we spend our last night in a beautiful hotel**** in the old city center with great views onto the sea. We meet in a typical local restaurant and celebrate our Italian volcano adventure with a delicious farewell dinner.
Day 15: Departure from Catania or own tour extension
One of Catania´s narrow Sicilian streets
There are small markets and stalls all over the city
Etna´s eruption and lava flow seen from Catania mid June 2014
The tour ends today with a transfer to Catania airport according to your departure time. If you have some time it is definitely worth to explore the lively city of Catania itself as it offers more than enough to visit: the famous local market (especially the fish-market is spectacular!), numerous Ancient relics, baroque architecture, or simply enjoy its buzzing charm from one of the plenty street cafes.
If you have more days to spend, we recommend you extend your stay in Sicily or on the islands as options of things to do and see are nearly unlimited!
| Dates |
Status |
Price per person (€) |
SRS (*) |
Group size |
| 8-22 Oct 2021 |
space available |
3590 € |
580 € |
6-12 |
| 20 May - 3 Jun 2022 |
space available |
3590 € |
580 € |
6-12 |
| 7-21 Oct 2022 |
space available |
3590 € |
580 € |
6-12 |
| (*) Single room supplement |
Prices for tours at custom dates: on request
Included:
- 14 nights accommodation in double room (upper mid-range category)
- Most meals (breakfast + lunch snack + full dinner menu incl. wine, beer, coffee etc. in reasonable amounts)
- All transports and excursions as described
- Entry fees to museums, volcanoes, archaeological sites etc. as described
- Volcanologist guide from our team
Not included:
- Travel to Naples and from Catania
- Single room supplement
- Extra meals (usually light lunch snacks) and drinks not mentioned as included in program
Discounts:
Returning customers receive 5% (or 8% - if you have been on at least 3 trips with us) discount on the base tour price.
Group booking discount: If at least 4 people together book this trip, 5% (additional) discount is given, combineable to a maximum of 10%.
Additional info:
Physical requirements:
This trip requires a good general physical condition and some hiking experience. The time spent on individual excursions range from 1 hour up to ca. 6-8 hours, including breaks, but these timings are variable as they also depend on the weather, opportunities to observe and photograph volcanic activity etc. Most hikes are fairly easy, with climbing efforts between 100-400 m and total walking times under 3 hours. Exceptions are the more strenuous climb to Stromboli's summit, where around 900 m of altitude have to be climbed, and the potential climb to Etna's summit craters which can take up to 4 hours or more of total walking (weather and volcanic activity permitting these hikes). These latter excursions can be considered as optional and can be shortened by all or part of the group (possibility to split up, see program for details). People with asthma or other breathing difficulties should contact their medical doctor and are kindly requested to also inform us about this on beforehand.
Arrival info:
The tour starts in Naples and ends in Catania. In order to give everybody the best chance to plan his/her trip as flexible as possible, travel arrangements to Naples and from Catania are not included in the tour package. Naples is easily reached by plane or train (e.g. from Rome airport or other cities) and when the tour ends in Catania one can catch a connecting flight to the international departure airport (e.g. Naples, Rome, Milan). This 2 weeks volcano adventure can be easily combined with a preceding tour or an extension program in Italy, for example city trips to Rome, Florence,... or spending more time on Sicily or one of the Eolian islands. Upon request, we will happily make you some suggestions or assist you with your (international) travels in(to) Italy.
"Thank you so much for such a wonderful 2 weeks in Italy!" (Ali & Gabriela about the the Grand Tour to Italy's volcanoes in Oct 2017)
Hi Tom,
I believe I speak for all of us when I say: Thank you so much for such a wonderful 2 weeks in Italy! It was an unforgettable experience, and it was so great to make new friends as well! We will definitely book another trip with you again, hopefully sometime next year.
It was great meeting you all and we hope to see you again in the future! If any of you plan to visit New York sometime, please reach out to us, we'd love to show you around.
Florian, thank you so much for making our time in Naples so enjoyable. Please let me know when you find out what the white lines mean.
Regards,
Ali & Gabriela
(from New York, USA, about the Grand Tour to Italy's volcanoes in Oct 2017)
"I have always been fascinated by volcanoes." (Robert B. about the the Grand Tour to Italy's volcanoes in Oct 2016)
"Ms. Passariello:
I read your excellent article in today's Wall Street Journal this morning.
Last October, my wife Jenean and I did a grand tour of all of Italy's volcanoes through a group called Volcano-Adventures (www.volcanodiscovery.com). We began our two-week trip in Naples at Mt. Vesuvius, followed it up with Campi Flegrei, took a ferry to Stromboli, sailed to the other Aeolean Islands, and ended up at Mt. Etna. Our trip was guided by a volcanologist who explained all the natural phenomena to us. In between, we were treated to excellent restaurants and wine tastings. We also stayed in excellent hotels.
We spent several days in Stromboli. Our hotel was the Villaggio Stromboli, where we were able to look out over the water to Strombolicchio. Midway up the volcano is a restaurant called Osservatorio, where the only lighting is provided by candles, and each eruption of a lava fountain is punctuated by oohs and aahs from the customers just like during Fourth of July fireworks. From that point, my wife ascended the rest of the mountain to the summit crater. I walked back down to the hotel because my knees can no longer handle steep climbs and descents. She spent several hours at the top of the volcano and got some great pictures and videos of the eruptions. Jenean arrived back at the hotel several hours later, and she said that her leg muscles felt like jello.
We also spent some time at the islands of Lipari and Vulcano. Our small boat took us through places in the Tyrrhenian Sea that was bubbling with volcanic gases. The water was like seltzer, but the bubbles smelled like sulfur. The island of Vulcano is very active, with steam vents and mud baths everywhere. Lipari was enjoyable also. It goes without saying that all these places had excellent food. The Aeolian Islands are unknown to most American tourists, and we didn't see very many.
We have many pictures and videos from our trip. We would be happy to share them with you. Stromboli is but one of many volcanoes in Italy. It is relatively easy to hike to the crater of Vesuvius. Even I was able to do it. Of more significance is the city of Pozzouli, which sits atop Campi Flegrei (a.k.a Phlegraean Fields), a supervolcano above which live about two million people. Mt. Etna is the grand finale. In addition to the activity of the volcano itself, the surrounding area is filled with the marks and effects that the volcano has left upon it. You can truly appreciate the massive power of Mother Nature.
This was a bucket-list vacation for me. I have always been fascinated by volcanoes. ...
Keep up the good work." (Robert B., California, about the Grand Tour to Italy's volcanoes in Oct 2016)
"Hello Tom: I think I am finally over jet lag after the 30 hours total travel from Rome to Australia. I want to thank you for another superb trip. I've done Vanuatu, Java and now Italy with you and your people in only 14 months (!).
All of the trips have been different and all excellent. They have certainly enabled me to get closer to active volcanoes and their scale, which is exactly what I wanted to do after a lifetime looking mostly at mineral deposits in eroded dead volcanoes. I fell in love with the Mediterranean islands - and, yes, Santorini is definitely on the list!
Best wishes
Dick" (Richard H., Australia, about the Volcanoes of Italy tour)
"We had a wonderful time..." - travel article in Rock&Gem magazine Jan 2012
Read what it is like to travel with us - "A Grand Tour of Italy's Hot Spots" (Rock&Gem magazine, Jan 2012 issue)
If you like to read what a tour with us is like, have a look: Craig and Heather, a couple from Colorado, who took part in the Volcanoes of Italy tour last April, published a detailed report in the Rock & Gem magazine (Jan 2012 issue).
You can read more on their website and download the article as pdf from there.
...want to thank everyone for such a great trip.
Hello Volcano Discoverers,
Heather and I want to thank everyone for such a great trip. It was a great group pf people to travel with and I think we have new memories that will last a lifetime. ...
We hope our paths cross again in the future. Maybe on another volcano, who knows
Cheers, Salute, Prost, Skaal, Gesondheid,
Craig L. and Heather H. (Colorado, USA, Volcanoes of Italy tour)
"Hello Tom, Ines, Nicola, James, Steve
Time passes by very quickly...
but i managed to sort out the highlights of my 650 photos of our trip
in Sicily and the Eolian Islands.
Here it is:
http://picasaweb.google.ch/daniel.reutlinger/VolcanoDiscoverySicilyEolianIslands#
It was really a pleasure to travel around with you and watching all
those photos reminds me of those great days.
Hope to see you some day on a Volcano or in Switzerland or somewhere
else on this beautiful planet...
Daniel" (Stromboli to Etna tour Oct 08)
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 Inès on Vulcano's crater
Tak for en skøn uge i det eoliske øhav og på Etna. Dejlige vandreture med
gode guider, smukke omgivelser og godt selskab, det var lige det jeg ønskede
mig. Vulcano, Stromboli og Etna er de første vulkaner, jeg har oplevet, og
det var helt fantastisk. Etna var virkelig storslået. De øde lavalandskaber
og alle de fine sten bjergtog mig helt og aldeles. På Stromboli var det fascinerende at se ned i krateret og se de små luende flammer og fontænerne
af ild, der skød op. Men de små fulmaroler på Vulcano med deres svovldampe betød noget helt særligt, fordi det er den første vulkanske aktivitet jeg nogensinde har set. Dette er steder, jeg gerne vender tilbage til.
Inès, Stromboli to Etna, Oktober 2008" (Ines K., Denmark)
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"Just to say what a great trip to Etna and thanks to Rosario for showing me such wonderful sights. It was fantastic!" (T. Salt, UK) (Etna Private Tours)
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"Etna, 15th August 2008 Thank you, it was a great experience, and we looked differenly at all the Volcanos in the Eoliennes, specially Etna. Roberto is great guide, as he could share his passion and knowledge with us,and give so much explainations." (Patrick de la Chesnais, UK). See Patrick's photos from this excursion on this page.
"Hola Marta
Disculpa que haya tardado un poco en responderte, he estado viajando bastante por trabajo estas semanas, y ahora toca unas semanas más tranquilas en Barcelona. El viaje estuvo fantástico, llevábamos años con ganas de ir a Nápoles y vuestra combinación vulcanismo-arqueología-historia estuvo realmente bien. Nosotros nos volvimos encantados, la organización perfecta, tu trabajo fenomenal y hasta el tiempo acompaño. Tenemos ganas de volver y no descartamos para el año que viene un poco más de “lava volcánica” con el itinerario Stromboli-Etna.
Da recuerdos a Tobias, es siempre agradable encontrar personas con esa pasión por la naturaleza y por intentar hacer cosas diferentes, incluso en sitios como Italia y Grecia donde parece que esta todo inventado. Si avísanos cuando vengas por Barcelona que tenemos ganas de verte. Abrazos" (M. A. Vallencillo, Spain, Vesuvius-Pompeii tour)
"Hello Tom,
We're now back from another great week on Etna.
We very much enjoyed our day out with Marco on 5th June (Rosario had to lead a group that day) which Steve Banfield joined us for. We visited the 'Bottoniera'to do some filming/photos for a few hours, returning down the usual pleasant descent route around Mte. Montagnola.
We undertook numerous other walks on Etna during the week – some of which we had not done before - including a return to the current eruption site at the 'Bottoniera', when the activity had changed to more random and sporadic explosions from the upper vent, some of which were quite violent, although activity from the lower vent remained relatively predictable. We got some good night-time video footage of the active vents and lava flows from the Schiena dell'Asina on one of our evening excursions. On our last day, we got excellent views (and, luckily, some more good video footage – for once the Valle del Bove was mainly clear of clouds!) of the advancing active lava front between Mte. Simone & Mte. Centenari from the ridge above the Serra del Concazze; the eruption was clearly continuing in similar style to the previous days, although there were far less ash emissions as the upper vent was exhibiting more Strombolian-type activity." (Niki, UK, custom Etna tour)
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"Hi Tom, Just a quick note to fill you in on what we did after leaving you on Etna...we think we used our time wisely, we saw lots, and we had a very good time. Thanks for all the good advice, it was very useful to us.
We had such a good time on our expedition with you! It was more strenuous than I expected, but also more rewarding and more fun! I could hardly wait to get back to show pictures to my friends and brag on our exploits! One other unexpected plus--despite the mass quantities of delicious food, I actually lost a couple of pounds--my trainer at the gym was impressed! Thanks for being such a thoughtful, knowledgeable and food-oriented guide.
We loved our trip!Regards, Linda K." (Linda K, Washington,
Stromboli to Etna trip April 08)
"Hi Tobias We are writing to express our high level of satisfaction with our tour of Naples on 3-6 May.
We are impressed with your professionalism and competence to coordinate travellers from different countries. Our sensation is that you are very professional agency, providing fast and clear answers to our series of e-mails, making it easy the tour booking and solve problems. Additionally your excellent website provides clear and useful information.
The hotel was great, the Napolitanean food and wine were delicious and the itinerary was wonderful appropriate to our interest with a perfect combination of geology-nature, historical values and the interesting city of Naples. All the places visited were very interesting in itself, but after the explanations and assistance of our guide, Marta, they became sincerely impressive. We want to make a special mention to Marta, our guide-driver-assistant-bodyguard, because she was very good and has make our trip better.
It was a pleasant experience to find a company like Volcano Discovery, which provides a service so different, fun and interesting even in places where everything seemed invented on tourism. We are already planning our trips for 2009, we'd like to repeat in the future with another trip in Italy, and why not, in your loved Greece which we have not visited yet. Once again, thank you very much for organising the trip. We had a fantastic time! Many thanks and regards Miguel A. V. & Maria del Carmen P." (M.A.V & M.C.P., Spain - Vesuvius to Pompeii tour)
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"Hi Tom and Tobias, I just wanted to tell you what a nice job that Marco did on our volcano tour last month. I had originally asked for Marta because I thought she would be great with the grandchildren. Marco did a fabulous job with both children-the eight year old grandson especially enjoyed Marco. They were great friends by the end. ...
Thanks again for a great volcano tour, Terry" (Terry D., Coloroado,
Stromboli to Etna trip May 08)
One word that describes Etna is 'awesome'and one word that describes Rosario's skills as a guide 'outstanding' ! (Etna tour - Kamal M., UK)
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Hi all, Sorry about the late reply, just getting back in the swing of things at work. We climbed Etna as planned, although you do not appreciate the grand size of it until you are there. Etna being over 3 times higher than any mountain in Ireland. We met our guide at the top of the road near the excursion centre by the cable car. After he had sorted us out with gear we headed off up the cable car and trekking across the snow. i must admit that i had never trekked in snow before nor had any of my team. (We hardly get any snow in Ireland only rain). After hiking for about 4-5 hours and lots of breaks we got to the cabin at the top with in about 30 - 45 mins from the main cones.
It is hard to describe the mountain. it was total covered with snow and was a small bit cold but once you keep moving you don't really feel it, a clear blue sky since we were above the clouds and total quite not a person for miles. Peaceful a bit different than my job.
After the guide digging out the snow from the cabin door we ventured in to get some much needed food and hot drinks which we had carried up the mountain. after resting at the cabin it was decided to head back down, as one of the teams old back injury had came back to haunt him. On the way down we looked at some lateral craters and vents. We later headed back down the cable car and to the excursion centre.
This trip was well worth going and i would recommend it to any one traveling to scissile to attempt this trip. Who knows I may come back and attempt it again myself one day, when I am a bit fitter I think.
A special thanks to the guide for staying with us and showing us the beauty of the mountain. I am sure he could have climbed the mountain in the half the time it he wanted to. (lol). And to all the staff of Volcano Discovery for making this trip one of the best trips i have been on.
Yours sincerely
Christopher Corbett, Igor Kendrinkski, Paul Doolan, Marco (Ireland)
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Tom,
I am writing to you to thank you for a wonderful tour.
Both yourself and Rosario provided a fantastic service from the moment we enquired to the moment we arrived back at Rifugio Sapienza. Rosario was a great guide and he helped us to get much more out of our trip to Mt Etna than we could have hoped for and truly made it a trip to remember.
Should you ever need a reference, I would be more than happy to oblige. As soon as I can, I will be putting some photos on our website of Rosario and our trip. Should you want a copy of any of them, just let me know. I will let you know when I have published them. It will probably be at least a week though.
Many thanks once again, Daniel & Julie http://www.danielandjulie.co.uk/
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"Tom, Had a great tour, Etna was more than impressive, just fantastic - like a moonscape up there. ..." (J Perston, UK)
".. Just got back from Sicily. I had a very enjoyable time even though Etna has been shy and did not want to put on a performance. On the Monday I went round to the North side visiting the Grotta del ghiaccio, first time wearing crampons. The second day was spent in the Valle del Bove. The third day spent at the summit craters. The fourth day I joined Marta visiting the Alcantara Gorge, Taormina and spending the evening and next day in Catania.
As usual, Marta maintained the professional standards I have come to expect from the "Volcano Discovery" team, and I expect the three other clients felt the same way." (S. Banfield, UK)
"Hello Volcano Discovery and especially Marta, I just wanted to let you know how much we all enjoyed our tour with Volcano Discovery... For me personally the whole trip was fabulous from the hikes to the boat trips on the Mediterranean. There is not a single thing I would change for myself. Marta-You did a nice job, the ladies all loved you. .. Terry" (Colorado, USA)
"This is a note to say that we enjoyed the climb and you made it successful, interesting and informative. Thank you very much for being an excellent guide. I attach two of our photos, one taken at the crater rim - and one of you! ... Thanks again Rosario!" (T Ecott, Etna private tour, May 07)
"Just a quick email to say what an amazing time I had hiking up Mount Etna last Thursday. It was an amazing experience I shall never forget, much thanks to our guide who was informative, safety conscious and extremely patient! Regards, Francoise J." (Etna private tour, May 07)
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"... I just wanted to thank you for another nice trip. I'm sure it won't be the last. ... You seem to choose your people well...Marta was quite knowledgeable and very enjoyable to be with..." (Stephen, USA)
"Having been back from Italy for a week, just a few lines to say what a great holiday it has been. I thought that Marta did a brilliant job as tour manager, up to volcano discovery's usual high standards, if like the rest of the group, it had of been my first time travelling with the company i would have been very impressed..." (Steve, UK)
"Just wanted to say thank you very much to Marta Gasparrini, for her mamzingly led trip through Naples, to Amalfi, which I was on the last two weeks...thank you for making it one of the best holidays of my life!" (J Brown, UK)
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"Dear Marco,
We want to thank to you for your very kind guide in Italy... Hiromi asks me for saying thanks to you and Tom. She is also impressed by the beauty of the eruptions and volcanoes and is very satisfied for your guide... Kind regards, Seiji" (Japan; Stromboli tour Sep 2006)
"Buenos Dias Marco, It is really great hearing from you. How was your last tour? Not as good as us, right?! I really wanted to thank you for being such a wonderful guide. I had a wonderful time. Believe it or not, I really want to go back already. Someday, maybe I will move to Italy, who knows. For now, I am preparing to move to New York. I will continue to practice my Italian and perhaps I will see you again at another volcano. All the best, Sedelia" (NY, Etna-Stromboli tour May 2006)
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"Hi Tom - Hope you are well. Thanks again for a great trip - really enjoyed it - particularly the second climb to the craters. Had a good time - helped by the weather and a good group. - Well organised! ... Andy" (Etna-Stromboli tour Oct 2006)
"Tom, I just wanted to say thanks for arranging such a great trip. It was everything I hoped for and more. Marco was great, as was Rosario, and stromboli was absolutely stunning. I also wanted to confirm you were ok...we were all quite concerned considering you were right in the center of all the trouble over there. Please let me know if everything worked out. I look forward to a long and fruitful relationship, and fully intend to use your services again in the future. With warm reguards, Stephen Hunt" (Etna-Stromboli tour May 2006)
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"Tom... really enjoyed the day. Because of the amount of snow, we had to walk from the top of the cable car, and that made it a very long day but all the more memorable.
The visibility from the top was very good, and we could clearly see the Aeolian islands, although it was very hard to see into the crater because of the clouds of gas. We had some walking equipment, but the snow shoes Rosario brought were very useful, if a little difficult to get used to.
Rosario was great, with a very good knowledge of the mountain, volcanos, and good English (even if he didn't think so). We would certainly recommend yourselves and/or Rosario to anyone else visiting Sicily who wanted to go on Etna (or any other volcanos). Mark & Sarah (Scotland)"
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"Hello Tom,
Thanks a lot. I'm glad that I joined the Volcanoes of Italy - the Grand Tour. Everything was very well organised. For me personally, Stromboli and Etna were the highlights, but the other places and volcanoes may also not to be missed. Stromboli wasn't very active the evening we climbed to the summit. But, the day after I got the chance to take a few pictures from the observation platform at 400 meter. I was amazed by the results I got with a small digital camera. I'm really looking forward to new tours and destinations in the VolcanoDiscovery program for next year. Best Wishes, Ronny" (Belgium)
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"Tom, Thanks for a magnificent trip... Brian" (Isle of Man)
"Salut Tom!
Nous sommes bien rentrés en France ce soir, la tête pleine de merveilleux souvenirs... Ce voyage restera inoubliable pour moi, et je garde plein d'images fabuleuses de tous ces moments magiques que nous avons vécus... Merci pour toute ta gentillesse et ta générosité, je suis vraiment heureuse de t'avoir rencontré!
A bientôt! Alix"
"Un petit aperçu photographique pour encore une fois te remercier pour ce fabuleux séjour. Je t'envoie le tout sur CD ou DVD le plus vite possible. A+ Marion et Eric"
"Having visited Etna independently on 2 previous occasions, I wanted to join a small group so that I could hike to the main craters. I found the trip with Tom in July 2004 well organised and informative. Tom and the Etna guide that was with us for our 3 day trip took us to parts of Etna that no other tourist would probably know of or could visit safely. The hiking was long and fun. The visit to the main craters was fantastic and allowed us to see Etna in all its glory.
I will definately be joining Tom again later this year to visit Java and woud recommend Volcano Discovery to anyone with an interest in hiking volcanoes." (Andrew Jackson, UK)
