Nov 6, 2024
Great, seamless and informative - Our guide Alessandro was very informative and organised. It was a good, seamless experience, although I would live it if they budgeted for more time in Taormina and less time doing the tasting and cave exploration.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nov 5, 2024
Exciting day trip to Mount Etna and Taormina - A day trip with full of unforgettable experience! Etna is a must-see attraction in Sicily, while Taormina is a typical small Italian town with amazing vibes! Florence was our supernice guide, she was sharing really interesting insights during the trip.
She picked us up right in front of our accommodation in Catania and during the whole day, we were perfectly keeping the timing of the itinerary.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 31, 2024
Great day - We had a great day.
Thanks to our guide Angelo who translated everything into French who gave us a lot of explanations. This day was perfect I advise you. a day to discover the volcano and the city that is beautiful.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 25, 2024
Brilliant - It was an unforgettable experience! We skipped the long lines, which made everything so much smoother and allowed us more time to enjoy the site. Our tour guide “Simone” was amazing – knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about the history of the area. He brought the ancient stories to life, making the tour both informative and exciting. I highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting an in-depth look at one of catania’s most iconic landmarks without the hassle of waiting in line!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 25, 2024
Unforgettable, to do absolutely - The ascent of Mount Etna was an unforgettable and absolutely magical experience. The time spent at 2900 m was a bit short for 78€ cable car and guide to pay extra. A lot of people. I also enjoyed visiting Taormina and the lava cave. A big thank you to Florence, our companion and guide, for her availability, kindness and great professionalism. The atmosphere with other travelers was also very friendly, and we were lucky enough to enjoy a great time. I highly recommend it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 25, 2024
Living a Fantastic Experience!! - Thank you Lorenzo!! You made our trip more memorable than the magnificence of Mt Etna.. Your knowledge and sharing of your personal experiences added flavor to our tour. Your kindness and caring on our behalf enriched our trip and shared your love of Sicily and the devotion to your work. Thank you Etna/Tribe for allowing us such a passionate tour guide.. Caio.. Robert and Debra
Review provided by Viator
Oct 22, 2024
Fun and complete day - Carnello was fantastic, we got to Mt Etna and it was cold windy & rainy and he made sure we could see most everything. And then took us to a beautiful lunch and wine tasting. He was attentive, helpful and very out going. He was knowledgeable. He made our day!
Review provided by Viator
Oct 17, 2024
A great day out - Pick up and drop off excellent. Simone was very enthusiastic and informative. The cable car was extra but that was clear before booking and well worth the extra.
Review provided by Viator
Nov 3, 2024
Good blend of two experiences. - One of my interests in visiting Sicily was to visit Mt. Etna close up. This tour provided the opportunity to see Mt. Etna with the bonus of going to Taormina. The day began with a prompt pickup at the designated location. I was greeted warmly by the tour guide and driver, Alessandro. After all passengers in our group of eight were on board, we were on our way.
Alessandro gave information on what to expect on the tour and decisions to make once we reached Etna. I was disappointed in not being able to hear since I was seated in the back of the van. A suggestion I have to the company is to discover a way that everyone can hear the guide when the van is moving over the streets. Maybe a portable microphone pack like walking tour guides use can help.
Once at Etna, we stopped to buy tickets for the gondola and bus ride up to the higher elevation of the mountain. This is one of the decisions you can make about how to spend your time at Etna. You can go up the mountain or remain at the level we entered and explore the lower elevation. There are activities there you can do such as mild hikes, snacks, picnic, rent four wheelers, and so on.
The gondola ride and bus connection was efficient and seamless. Once there, you trek a bit higher. I would advise sturdy soled shoes because at places, the volcanic soil is soft and you can slip. Also, a hiking stick can help you maintain your balance. The views were incredible. We took photos and once that was done, there seemed to be limited activity since our particular tour did not allow additional trekking.
Afterwards, we returned to the entry point and loaded in the van. We stopped for a tasting of local products which, to be honest, was something nice to do but not overly impressive. However, if you are looking for honey and olive oil you can taste and purchase there. Before heading to Taormina we stopped to see a volcanic cave. Entering the cave required wearing a helmet to protect your head from the low entry points. I enjoyed seeing the accumulation of lava over centuries of time and how they formed the cave structure.
Finally we made the lovely drive to Taormina. I wish we could have stopped to take photos at some of the scenic stops but most in the group were eager to get to our destination. We were dropped off at a convenient spot at the bottom of an mild incline in Taormina. After a short walk we were in the center of shopping and restaurants. The town was crowded, but lovely. In truth, you can spend several hours there to really experience the vibe. We had roughly two hours to explore. I spent my time eating gelato and browsing in and out of shops.
My overall assessment of the trip is very good, and I would recommend it with some adjustments to make it Perfect. Alessandro is extremely patient and kind natured. He dealt with tardy members of our group with grace. He listened to complaining members without becoming emotional or angry. Although I do not enjoy waiting on late people, sometimes when you travel in a group that happens and you have to plan on being flexible. Alessandro kept the mood positive. You can tell he cares to make sure each member has the best experience possible on his tour.
After the tour, he sent videos on Mt. Etna, to continue learning about this incredible volcano!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 21, 2024
Prima - Great English speaking Guide, well cared for. Disadvantage that tickets still have to be arranged on site at Etna, including would be easier
Review provided by Tripadvisor