Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

In its recorded 3,000-year-old history, Mount Etna has erupted almost 200 times. The most violent eruption occurred in 1669, when the lava destroyed a dozen villages and covered parts of the city of Catania. And Zafferana Etnea has always had a front row seat to the destructive powers of Mother Nature's fury. Situated amidst centuries-old lava streams on Etna's southeastern slopes, Zafferana continually endures lava flows and ashen rains. During the great Etna eruption of 1992 the small town was spared when lava inched its way down the side of the volcano and stopped just 2,624 feet from the village.

Yet through the centuries Zafferana has taken advantage of Mount Etna's rich and fertile soil and spectacular views of the volcano and the sea to successfully establish a successful business. Learn how Etna has destroyed and created some of the best farmland in the country with an easy five-and-a-half-hour excursion around one of the world's most active volcanoes. To thoroughly enjoy your outing be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along your camera to preserve everlasting memories.

Your adventure begins at the pier as you board your coach. Watch the streets of Messina slowly give way to a countryside dominated by the iconic Mount Etna looming off in the distance. The record books state that Europe's largest and highest volcano measures 10,902 feet above sea level but in reality its height is constantly changing due to whether the eruptions are constructive or destructive; in fact, over the last century Etna's height has shifted between 10,705 and 10,958 feet.

As you approach Zafferana you may notice a chance in the topography. Founded in 1387 only 18 miles from the volcano, Zafferana sits snugly in the upper part of the Valle del Bove, an eleven-mile wide valley ringed by impenetrable cliffs created thousands of years ago when the eastern flank of the mountain experienced a catastrophic collapse and left a large depression in the side of the volcano.

Through the centuries eruptions of lava and ash have proven catastrophic, but it left behind fertile volcanic soil that helped nurture the growth of vegetation. Surrounded by vineyards and citrus groves, Zafferana is renowned for its honey made from the nectar of chestnut, lemon and orange blossoms. Depending on the time of year you visit you may smell a hint of honey in the air when you step off the coach and stroll to a local hotel for refreshments.

A walk through the main square takes you past the quaint parish church where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the sea. Reminders of the 1992 eruption are visible, too. After refreshments, you'll walk to the town's outskirts for a look at the lava that almost destroyed the town when dams built to contain lava broke, streamed down the valley and flowed into town.

Your colorful and historic tour concludes with a drive back to your ship to reflect on your adventure.