School Geography Trips to Sicily

FAQs about this tour

Find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

• Can we climb Mount Etna?

  There are multiple ways to visit Mount Etna whilst in Sicily. Groups can visit the South of the Volcano where they can ascend to one of the craters at a height of 2,900m by cable car and 4×4 jeeps. To the north of the volcano you can ascend by foot, crossing some of the lava fields left by the 2002 eruption. Our expert Tour Consultants can recommend the best experience for your group.

• What is the FCO advice in regards to safe air travel?

  The FCO have provided guidelines on how you can travel safely in airports and on aircrafts at this time. Airports and airlines are committed to making your journey as safe as possible. You can read their guidance here.

• What happens if there is a volcanic eruption whilst we are in Italy?

  Throughout your tour you will have 24-hour access to a member of our team, if you do have any concerns or require any assistance. We also have a strong relationship with our agent in Italy, therefore in the event of any disruption to your tour we will liaise with them promptly to ensure that they can offer us all the local support and assistance we need. This local knowledge and direct communication means that in the event that you are directly affected by an eruption we will be on hand to offer a calm, efficient evacuation to safety, if required. We have access to accommodation in different locations, should your group need to be relocated.

  Should your return be affected we will be on hand to offer support and assistance until your group is safely back in the UK. We have 24-hour contact available with the majority of airlines and we have experienced the high level of support they offer during the repatriation process. Please be assured that your tour is in safe hands and that the safety of our groups is our top priority. Additionally, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further queries or require any additional information at this stage.

• What can geography students expect to see and study on a trip to Sicily?

  Giardini Naxos – Coastal Processes and Tourism

  At Giardini Naxos, students study coastal systems, including wave erosion, transportation and deposition. They also examine how tourism shapes coastal towns, exploring both development pressures and strategies for sustainable management.

  Mount Etna – Volcanic Activity and Hazards

  Mount Etna offers a chance to see Europe’s most active volcano up close. Students can observe recent lava flows, volcanic craters, and landforms, supporting studies of plate tectonics, volcanic hazards, and the interaction between people and active environments.

  Aeolian Islands – Volcanic Landscapes

  On islands such as Vulcano, students trek across volcanic craters, see fumaroles and sulphur deposits, and visit black sand beaches. These features provide vivid examples of geothermal activity, volcanic landscapes, and coastal processes shaped by volcanism.

   

  Alcantara Gorge – Fluvial Landforms

  The Alcantara Gorge demonstrates how rivers carve through volcanic rock. Students investigate erosion, river processes, and canyon formation, while considering the influence of rock type on landscape development.

  Taormina – Human Geography and Tourism

  In Taormina, students explore human geography through its hilltop location, historic amphitheatre, and tourism economy. The town illustrates how settlement, topography, and economic activity are closely linked.

• When is the best time of year to take a school trip to Sicily?

  Spring (April-to-June)

  Spring is one of the top choices. From about April through to early June, the weather is mild and generally pleasant: warm enough to do outdoor fieldwork, hikes, volcano visits, etc., without the extreme heat. Crowds are smaller than in peak summer, which means easier access to sites and fewer logistical headaches.

  Autumn / Early Fall (September-October)

  Another excellent window is September through October. The sea is still warm, the heat is less intense, and tourist numbers drop off, so it becomes more comfortable for long days outdoors, site visits (e.g. Mt Etna, archaeological ruins), and travelling between locations. It also means better value for accommodation and easier movement around towns and transport.

• What should students pack for a geography field trip to Sicily?

  Clothing

  • Lightweight layers – T-shirts and long sleeves for sun protection.
  • Comfortable walking trousers/shorts – avoid heavy jeans; quick-dry fabrics are best.
  • Warm layer – a fleece or jumper for cooler evenings or higher elevations (e.g. Mount Etna).
  • Waterproof jacket – essential for sudden showers or wind.
  • Sturdy walking shoes/boots – with good grip for rocky and volcanic terrain.
  • Hat & sunglasses – for strong Mediterranean sun.
  • Swimwear & towel – for beach or hot spring visits.

  Fieldwork Essentials

  • Small backpack/daypack – for carrying daily gear, water, and notes.
  • Refillable water bottle – staying hydrated is crucial in warm weather.
  • Notebook & pencils – for field sketches and observations (pencils work better in damp or windy conditions).
  • Clipboard & ruler – handy for fieldwork tasks.
  • Map/compass – if required by teachers for navigation activities.

  Extras & Practical Items

  • Sun cream & insect repellent – the Sicilian sun is strong, and insects may be an issue near water.
  • Light scarf/buff – useful against dust or wind.
  • Camera/phone (with charger & adapter) – for photos and recording field data.
  • Snacks – high-energy snacks for long days outdoors.
  • Travel adaptor – Sicily uses European plugs (Type C, F, or L).
  • Personal medication – plus basic first aid items if advised.