The recent eruption of Sicily’s Mt. Etna captured the world’s attention, sending dramatic plumes of ash and volcanic material high above Europe’s most active volcano. At Classic Journeys, we’re committed to keeping our guests informed and safe. Since 1997, our Sicily Cultural Walking Tour has included an unforgettable walk on the slopes of Mt. Etna, led by expert local volcanologist guides. With our decades of local connections in Sicily, we have the latest, on-the-ground updates—direct from our volcanologist guides.
What Happened on Mt. Etna?
In the early hours of June 2, 2025, Mt. Etna experienced an eruption after a partial collapse of its southeastern crater. This triggered a display of lava fountains and ash clouds. The eruption was described by experts as another in a regularly occurring series. All volcanic activity remained within the natural containment area, posing no danger to the surrounding population or towns.
Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported that the volcanic tremor peaked during the eruption but quickly diminished, signaling a return to normalcy. The impacted zone was limited to the summit, and no injuries were reported. The alert level was lowered to “yellow” by Tuesday, June 3, as the eruption subsided.
Mt. Etna Q & A
Q: How big is Mt. Etna and what can I compare it to in the U.S.?
A: Mt. Etna covers roughly 459 square miles, which is about the size of the city of Los Angeles, or more than twice the size of New York City.
Q: Are eruptions on Mt. Etna common?
A: Eruptions at Mt. Etna occur very frequently, making it one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Documented eruptions date back at least to 1500 BC, and the volcano has been erupting for hundreds of thousands of years. In recent decades, Etna has produced multiple eruptions each year—sometimes even several in a single month. For example, in 2021, Etna erupted 11 times in just three weeks. Most eruptions are relatively small and occur at the summit craters, but larger flank eruptions also happen periodically. On average, Etna experiences around a dozen eruptive episodes per year, though the intensity and duration can vary greatly. This near-constant activity is a hallmark of Etna and is closely monitored by volcanologists.
Q: Is it safe to visit Mt. Etna now?
A: Yes. According to Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) and Sicily’s Civil Protection, as well as our volcanologist guides, the eruption has stopped and all activity has returned to normal. Our regular walk on Mt. Etna is open with no restrictions or impediments as of June 3, 2025.
Q: Is the Classic Journeys itinerary running as planned?
A: Yes! Access to our scenic walk on Etna’s slopes resumed this morning, and our guests can enjoy the full experience, including walks with our volcanologist guides with whom we observe the other-worldly landscape of lava dunes.
Q: Are flights and travel in Sicily operating normally?
A: Yes! Catania airport, the main gateway for travelers to eastern Sicily, remained open throughout the eruption and continues to operate regularly.
Q: What is the Classic Journeys’ difference on Mt. Etna?
A: Our Sicily tours include an exclusive walk on Mt. Etna led by Lucia, a professional volcanologist. She provides fascinating insights into the volcano’s geology, history, and ongoing activity—making this a truly “only with Classic Journeys” experience. Our volcanologists are in constant contact with their INGV scientist counterparts.
Q: What should travelers expect now?
A: Everything is back to normal. The eruption, while visually dramatic, was a routine event for Etna. Our itineraries are running as scheduled, and the region remains as welcoming and beautiful as ever.
Classic Journeys: Your Trusted Source for Sicily
Our expert local guides, small group sizes, and privileged access ensure you experience Sicily—and Mt. Etna—at eye level, with safety and authenticity at the forefront. Whether you’re walking among ancient Greek temples, tasting wine on volcanic terroir, or exploring the living landscape of Etna with Lucia, Classic Journeys delivers the most immersive and informed adventure in Sicily.
For more information or to reserve your place on our next Sicily departure, visit our website or contact our team. We look forward to showing you the wonders of Sicily, safely and memorably.
