A disabled person on a volcano? It seems crazy! Taking someone who has problems with movement or orientation on mountain paths that are already dangerous for the “able-bodied” may actually seem like a gamble you should not even attempt. But why prevent some less fortunate people from experiencing the strong emotions that a volcano can give … when there are the means to do so? Mount Etna is a wonderful volcano and it is also inclusive. If you cannot book special tours, with staff to accompany you, rely on a local guide (as long as they are authorized) and go and explore one of these following destinations.

Clan dei Ragazzi and Ragabo

On the northern side of Etna, immersed in the shade of thick, scented pine forests, the structures of the “Clan dei Ragazzi” and “Refuge Ragabo” are the easiest access for disabled people. The ease of parking allows you to reach the refuges by car and the well-defined paths also allow for a short walk in the woods. Be careful at Ragabo, because the access part to the pine forest is bumpy (doable with crutches, not so easily with a wheelchair). However, you can enjoy the beauty and the coolness… and also different viewpoints of the summit craters, along the way to reach the facilities.

Both at Clan and Ragabo you can eat and sleep in rooms that can be booked on the official websites: https://www.chaletclandeiragazzi.it/ and  https://www.ragabo.it/ .

Etna Cableway

Thanks to the Etna Cableway that, from the Refuge Sapienza square (Etna South) goes up to 2800 meters, even those who cannot walk well will have the opportunity to climb to the top of the volcano. Once you have arrived comfortably with this means of transport, you continue towards the summit craters aboard comfortable shuttles with expert guides by your side. Admiring the smoking craters but also the breathtaking panorama from 3000 meters is an experience… for everyone to enjoy!
For more information: https://www.funiviaetna.com/ .

Quad and Jeep Tours

So hated by hikers, because of that somewhat aggressive approach to the trails, the “quads” (four-wheeled motorcycles capable of tackling any terrain) can instead become a wonderful opportunity for people with disabilities. Some associations (for example https://www.etnaquad.it/faq/disabili-in-quad/ ) organize tours dedicated specifically to people with both physical and mental problems.

If you prefer comfortable but less exposed vehicles than quads, rely on an Etna 4×4 tour, like those organized by our team. Going by jeep cars on the permitted trails allows you to reach many fascinating destinations and even those who have trouble moving alone can realize the dream of admiring the wild nature of Etna.

Comfortably transported, and never left alone on the vehicle, paths, craters, lava flows and panoramas will be within everyone’s reach.

An animal as a guide

For a person who cannot walk, but also for a person who has mental difficulties, being “accompanied” by a lovely animal is a unique experience. On Etna, especially in summer, excursions are available on horseback, on the back of a mule or in the company of the very tender alpacas. Whether you travel on the back of the animal (always with an expert instructor by your side) – in the case of people with physical disabilities, or at its side, taking care of it – in the case of people with mental illnesses, the benefits of this type of special tour are many, and evident.

Contact https://www.instagram.com/lucianodomanti/ for information on the alpacas or   Etna Donkey    for other types of excursions with animals.