Volcano Tourism: The 5 Best Destinations

*This is a collaborative post on the best destinations to see a volcano

For an awe-inspiring opportunity to see Earth’s raw power, you cannot top a volcano holiday. You’ll enjoy a sightseeing experience but also an educational journey into the dynamic, sometimes frightening processes of Earth’s geology. This guide explores five destinations for volcano enthusiasts, offering insights into geological features and local features embedded in volcanic landscapes. 

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano is in the Arenal Volcano National Park, known for its hot springs and diverse wildlife. Arenal dominates the area with its conical peak soaring to 1,633m. Until 2010, Arenal was highly active, but recent years have seen a decrease, making it safer. The area around the volcano offers recreational activities, including hiking, zip-lining, and bird-watching, making it ideal for a relaxed yet adventurous volcanic experience. Head east and you can see hatched turtles scrambling towards the safety of the Caribbean Sea.

Mount Etna, Italy

Sicily’s Mount Etna, at over 3,000m, is Europe’s tallest and most active volcano. Visitors can explore its rich geological history through guided tours that offer hiking, cable car rides and close-up views of its frequent eruptions. Follow paths that wind through the lunar landscape, from the beautiful Ionian Sea to the rarefied air of the snow-capped summit. The surrounding Etna National Park boasts rich biodiversity, making it a hotspot for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.

Kilauea, Hawaii, USA

Kilauea, one of Hawaii’s most active volcanoes, is renowned for spectacular lava flows, which create new land as they reach the ocean. This volcano offers a opportunity to observe volcanic activity in a relatively safe environment, with numerous viewing points set up within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Its eruptions are mostly effusive, meaning lava flows rather than explosive activity, providing a mesmerising spectacle.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Japan is in the most geologically active part of the planet, the Ring of Fire. This area accounts for 75% of the Earth’s active volcanoes and circles the South Pacific. Mount Fuji is an iconic symbol of Japan and a destination for climbers and cultural enthusiasts. While technically an active volcano, Fuji has not erupted since 1707, allowing for safe climbing. The ascent, best undertaken during July to September, offers breathtaking views and a peek into the spiritual significance of this revered peak.

Mount Bromo, Indonesia

Indonesia has 55 active volcanoes, the most of any country. Mount Bromo, part of the Tengger mountains in East Java, Indonesia, is known for stunning sunrises and a vast sea of sand that visitors traverse on horseback or by foot. Although it is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, its eruptions are usually contained and offer little danger. The Yadnya Kasada festival is not for the faint-hearted, as locals offer sacrifices to the volcano gods, but provides an insight into the Tenggerese community’s life and beliefs.