Volcanoes capture our imagination with their immense power and stunning beauty. For thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts, volcano tours provide a special chance to witness these incredible geological formations up close. From hiking over cooled lava to soaring in helicopters, here are ten of the most exciting volcano tours around the globe that promise an unforgettable adventure.
Explore Mighty Kilauea in Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is home to Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Begin your volcano adventure with a visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness the incredible lava flows and explore the surreal landscapes.
For a more intimate experience, consider a helicopter tour, offering a unique bird’s-eye view of the volcano and its surroundings. You’ll fly over lava fields, steam vents, and even get a glimpse of the lake at the volcano’s summit.
If you prefer exploring on foot, numerous hiking tours are available, ranging in intensity and length to suit every fitness level. Some hikes take you through lush rainforests, while others lead you across hardened lava fields.
Witness the Sunrise at Mount Bromo in Indonesia
Mount Bromo, located in East Java, Indonesia, is a popular tourist destination offering a variety of exciting tours to explore this incredible natural wonder. This active volcano attracts visitors from around the world.
One of the most sought-after experiences is the sunrise tour. Starting in the early morning, this tour takes you to the volcano’s summit to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the mountain. The views from the top are truly spectacular, offering incredible photo opportunities of the surrounding landscape.
Another thrilling option is the Jeep tour, which takes you on a ride through the rugged terrain and up to the volcano’s peak. Along the way, you can enjoy the stunning views and learn about the area’s history and geology.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the hiking tour is an excellent choice. This challenging hike takes you to the volcano’s summit, where you can soak in the incredible views and explore the unique landscape.
Summit Villarrica Volcano in Chile
If you find yourself in Chile, a must-see attraction is the Villarrica volcano. This active volcano is situated in Pucón, a popular destination for tourists eager to experience its natural beauty and engage in thrilling adventure activities.
Several tours are offered at the Villarrica volcano, catering to various experience levels and degrees of physical fitness. The most popular tour is the ascent to the summit, which involves a challenging 5–6-hour hike up to the crater. While it’s a strenuous trek requiring a good level of fitness, the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the smoking crater.
For a less strenuous option, consider the Villarrica glacier trek. This tour takes you through the volcano’s foothills, providing an up-close view of the glacier. The trek is easier than the summit ascent, making it perfect for families or those seeking a more relaxed experience.
Discover Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica
For adventure, exploring a volcano is hard to beat. If you’re seeking an unforgettable experience, the Arenal volcano tours in Costa Rica are well worth considering.
Located in the northern part of the country, Arenal is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Though currently dormant since its last eruption in 1968, it remains an awe-inspiring sight. The volcano is surrounded by lush rainforests, hot springs, and breathtaking waterfalls, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
A range of Arenal volcano tours are available, from leisurely hikes through the rainforest to adrenaline-pumping zip line adventures. During your tour, you’ll learn about the volcano’s geology and history, as well as its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. And, of course, you’ll take in the stunning panoramic views of the volcano and its surroundings.
Traverse Mount Etna in Italy
Mount Etna, situated on the east coast of Sicily, is one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. As the highest volcano in Europe, it attracts visitors worldwide to explore its stunning landscapes and rich history. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-time visitor, Mount Etna offers a variety of tours to suit your interests and abilities.
A popular option is a hike to the volcano’s summit, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. This challenging trek takes you through rugged terrain and up steep inclines, but the rewards are well worth the effort. You’ll explore the lunar-like landscapes of the summit and witness the raw power of the volcano as steam vents and fumaroles release hot gases into the air.
For a more leisurely pace, scenic drives around Mount Etna take you through charming villages and picturesque vineyards. These tours provide unique insight into the local culture and allow you to sample some of the region’s finest wines and cuisine.
For those wanting a closer encounter with the volcano, guided tours take you deep into the crater’s heart. Offering a rare glimpse into the volcano’s inner workings, these tours provide an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in geology or natural history.
Trek Mount Ausangate in Peru
If you’re seeking an adventure that will leave you breathless, a tour of Mount Ausangate in Peru is the perfect choice. This majestic peak, standing at over 20,000 feet (6,096 meters), isn’t for the faint of heart. However, for those up to the challenge, the rewards are truly awe-inspiring.
For those new to hiking or wanting a more relaxed experience, shorter day hikes take you through stunning valleys and past turquoise lakes. More experienced hikers can enjoy multi-day treks, offering a chance to truly immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Andes.
A highlight of any Mount Ausangate tour is Rainbow Mountain, a stunning geological formation that is truly a sight to behold. The mountain gets its name from the incredible array of colors in the rock, caused by minerals like iron oxide and copper sulfate.
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to meet local people and learn about their way of life. This is a unique opportunity to experience Peru’s rich culture and witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
Hike Mount Yasur in Vanuatu
Mount Yasur is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that draws tourists from across the globe. Located on Tanna Island in Vanuatu, several tours are available for visitors wanting to experience its beauty and power up close.
One of the most popular tours is the guided hike to the summit of Mount Yasur. This includes transportation to and from the volcano, as well as a knowledgeable guide providing fascinating information about the volcano’s history and geology. While challenging, the hike is well worth it for the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the chance to witness the volcano’s explosive eruptions.
If hiking isn’t your preference, 4×4 tours offer a comfortable way to experience the volcano. These tours take you to the crater’s edge, where you can feel the heat and hear the rumbling and hissing sounds from deep within the earth.
Helicopter tours are also available for those who want to experience Mount Yasur from above. These tours provide a bird’s-eye view of the volcano and the surrounding landscape, allowing you to fully appreciate the volcano’s power and beauty.
Walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in New Zealand
If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding trek, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in New Zealand is an excellent choice. This 12-mile (19.4-kilometer) hike takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, including active volcanoes, emerald lakes, and rugged cliffs.
A popular option is the guided hike, which typically takes about 7–8 hours to complete. The tour company provides a knowledgeable guide who can offer insights into the area’s history and geology, as well as ensure your safety along the way. The highlight of the trek is the chance to walk across the rugged terrain of Mount Ngauruhoe, also known as Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings movies.
If you prefer a more independent experience, self-guided tours are also available. However, it’s important to note that the trail can be challenging, and weather conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to come prepared with proper gear and a good understanding of the route.
Visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is a beloved destination in Africa, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and incredible wildlife. The park is home to several active volcanoes, including Mount Bisoke, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Nyiragongo, which attract visitors from around the globe.
One of the best ways to experience the park’s beauty is with a guided tour, led by experienced guides knowledgeable about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. They also ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable way to explore the park’s rugged terrain.
During the tour, visitors can expect to see various wildlife, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys. The park also boasts many bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. In addition to wildlife, visitors can explore the park’s beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Study the New Volcano Fagradalsfjall in Iceland
For a truly unforgettable adventure, check out the tours at the Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland. This unique experience will leave you in awe of Iceland’s natural beauty. The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing their love for the area with their guests.
Fagradalsfjall is a recently erupted volcano and one of the most fascinating places in Iceland. The tours take you right up to the volcano’s edge, where you can feel the heat and see the lava flowing. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the power of nature up close.
The tours are very safe, and the guides take every precaution to protect everyone. They’ll provide you with all necessary safety equipment, including helmets and gas masks. The tours are also very informative, and you’ll learn much about the area’s geology and Iceland’s history.
From the fiery landscapes of Hawaii to the icy terrains of Iceland, these volcano tours offer unique and thrilling experiences for every adventurer. Whether you’re hiking to a summit, flying over craters, or witnessing a sunrise from a volcanic peak, the memories created will last a lifetime.
Which volcano tour excites you the most? Leave your comment below!
