‘It rumbles like a giant tiger in a cage’: Experts on climbing Mount Etna during an eruption
It's a surreal scene: fiery lava seeping out between black rocks meeting the pristine white snow covering the mountain. This mind-blowing sight is luring thousands of thrill-seeking tourists from all over the world to the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily.
The volcano erupts regularly, but even while it's active, many tracks and walking paths remain safe – making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for bushwalkers and photographers.
Fair dinkum, above a certain height, it's compulsory to go with a qualified mountain guide. They know how to keep visitors safe – not to mention when the volcano is spewing molten lava – and are a font of knowledge on the big 'Mamma Etna'.
Etna erupting: "It roars like a massive tiger trapped in a pen"
Since 11 February, when the current eruption started, thousands of visitors have arrived to witness the energy coming from one of the world's most active volcanoes.
Visiting during an eruption "remains extremely exciting, with unique views and emotions every time."
“Yer can see columns of gas and ash up in the air, and sometimes hear explosions, which sound a bit like thunder,” she says. “If yer're near a lava flow, yer can hear the sound of smashin' glass and feel the heat from the lava.”
The sight of glowing lava against the dark volcanic backdrop is a real showstopper, especially at night. “Sometimes it looks like the last day of our life,” he quips.
It's just stunning: "Broken glass from the crackling of cooling lava, explosions, and deep rumbles like a giant tiger in a cage".
“Fair dinkum, it's a real adrenaline rush,” he says. “The ground might shake a bit under your feet, and you'll often get a whiff of sulphur in the air. Even from a distance, you can feel the heat comin' off fresh lava flows.”
‘Travellers are all filled with the same thrill when witnessing the raw power of Mount Etna up close’
For Pioro, it's also a thrill to see how her visitors react to Etna's volcanic eruptions. "For some of my guests, watching an eruption is a lifelong dream they've always wanted to tick off," she says.
during an eruption!”
Trovato, too, enjoys seeing the experience through the eyes of his guests. "Each traveller comes with different expectations, but they all share the same excitement when experiencing the raw power of Etna up close," he says.
Says hikers experience is "pure adrenaline". "You gotta find the right spot to take in the view, it's like a magnet, you leave everything and head to the most powerful show nature's got to offer," he says.
“Tourists from all parts of the globe come here, and their reaction is the same as mine – a mix of amazement and apprehension, a pretty incredible combination!”
1. **Check the weather forecast**: Monitor the eruption's intensity and ashfall
Etna guides are specialists in safety, which should always be a top priority – especially when there's a volcanic eruption.
"The guides have a good knowledge of the area, can identify potential hazards and are in touch with volcanologists and rescue teams in the event of an emergency," says Pioro. They also get real-time updates on conditions, which can change quickly in the high mountain terrain.
You should also be prepared and aware of the potential hazards.
“Always be ready with the right gear and check out the route beforehand,” Pioro says. Cutore reckons you should keep a safe distance from areas with volcanic activity and consider the wind direction so you can steer clear of falling debris.
With the current surge in hikers, authorities are getting worried about safety. "Make sure you check for the latest volcanic activity updates from local authorities and follow any access restrictions," Trovato advises.
Visitors are parking on narrow streets, causing traffic chaos around Mount Etna and blocking rescue vehicles from getting through, prompting firefighters to be brought in to help manage the crowds.
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