The Silvestri craters are two extinct cones beside the Sapienza car park and are the easiest walk on Etna. A 2026 guide describes the route as free and not requiring a guide, but entry rules can change with the alert level.
The Silvestri Craters circuit is the most accessible walk on Mount Etna, in the province of Catania in eastern Sicily. The two extinct cones sit beside Rifugio Sapienza on the Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza in the comune of Nicolosi, at roughly 1,900 m, and the path starts next to the cable car station. Visitors reach the trailhead by car from Catania in about one hour along the SP92 mountain road, with paid parking at the Sapienza plateau; regional AST buses also serve the area, and the timetable is published at aziendasicilianatrasporti.it. No permit is normally required for this low-altitude route, although access rules can change with the volcano's alert level, so current notices should be checked before setting out. The loop is short, generally 2 to 3 km, and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace. Elevation gain is gentle because the car park already sits at the base of the craters; the main effort comes from the altitude and the loose footing. The surface is black volcanic gravel and cinders, which shift underfoot, with some sections of firmer compacted track. There is almost no shade, and the exposure to wind and sun is high, so temperatures can feel 10 to 15 degrees cooler than in Catania even in summer. Landmarks include the rim of the larger crater, formed during the 1892 eruption, a ring of lava rock and pumice, and wide views over the Sapienza plateau, the cable car line and, on clear days, the Ionian coast. Visitors who want a shorter walk can circle only the first cone and return, while fitter walkers can continue along the rim for the better panorama. Water and refreshments are available from the cafes and shops around Rifugio Sapienza, but none exist on the circuit itself. The refuge buildings and souvenir shops offer shelter if the weather turns, since mist and strong wind can arrive quickly. The route is free and does not require a guide, but the route should not be extended toward the upper slopes without checking the INGV bulletin, because the summit zone above roughly 2,900 m is restricted.
| Distance | Short loop of roughly 2 to 3 km around the craters |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Car from Catania to Rifugio Sapienza (about 1 hour); the AST bus timetable is at aziendasicilianatrasporti.it |
| Best season | April-November; check for snow and for current closures |
| Address | Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza, 95030 Nicolosi CT (trail starts beside the cable car station) |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Silvestri craters, Rifugio Sapienza, Nicolosi
What to bring
- Sturdy shoes (loose volcanic gravel)
- Windproof jacket
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- Water
Location
Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza, 95030 Nicolosi CT (trail starts beside the cable car station)
37.7002, 14.9982 View on map
Highlights
- Walk the rim of the extinct Silvestri cones beside Rifugio Sapienza
- Easy loop of 2 to 3 km with no guide or fee required
- Views across the Sapienza plateau toward the Ionian coast
- Close-up look at black cinders, lava bombs and pumice
Tips for visiting
- Wear sturdy shoes; the loose volcanic gravel is slippery on the crater slopes.
- Bring a windproof jacket even in July; the plateau is much cooler than Catania.
- Start early or late in the day to avoid tour-bus crowds and midday glare.
- Check the INGV bulletin and local notices before leaving, as rules change with the alert level.
- Buy water and snacks at Sapienza before starting; there are none on the loop.
When to visit
April to November, with clear mornings giving the best visibility. Late afternoon is quieter once the day-tour groups have left.
Accessibility
The paths are loose volcanic gravel and uneven, so the circuit is not suitable for wheelchairs and is difficult with strollers. The paved area around the Sapienza car park and shops is level and can be used for views of the craters.
Frequently asked questions
Is a guide required for the Silvestri Craters?
No. The low-altitude circuit around the craters is generally free and does not need a guide, but entry rules can change with the volcano's alert level, so current notices should be checked.
How long does the Silvestri Craters walk take?
The loop is roughly 2 to 3 km and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, longer with photo stops.
How do visitors get to the trailhead?
By car from Catania in about one hour to Rifugio Sapienza in Nicolosi, or by AST bus; the trail begins beside the cable car station.
Is the walk suitable for children?
Generally yes for school-age children who can walk on loose gravel, but wind and altitude mean warm clothing is needed.