Feature: Volcano treks around the world
Still creating and shattering landscapes, volcanoes are some of the wildest natural phenomena on earth. Usually situated where tectonic plates merge, many still spew magma, ash and natural gases high into the air. Numerous islands and countries like Hawaii, Indonesia and Iceland were born out of volcanoes, which have helped shape some of the most unique and diverse scenery imaginable. So why not visit one for yourself? To help you along the way, here’s our guide to incredible treks and tours all over the world, from South America to Africa.
The Aeolian Islands
Situated off the north coast of Sicily are the Aeolian Islands, seven sisters born from lava and fire in a legendary sea. The archipelago is an area of striking beauty, unspoilt nature, charming villages and the remnants of ancient civilizations. And some of the volcanoes are still active, like Stromboli. Volcano Discovery offer treks to this magical place, starting and finishing in Catania. Charming guesthouse accommodation is included along with two meals a day.
Climb the Fossa crater and observe its impressive fumarole fields and colourful sulfur deposits. Bathe in warm water springs, sail between islands, visit ancient Greek ruins on Lipari Island, and witness the eruptions of Strombokli (at a distance of course!). Prices start from £1000.
New Zealand
New Zealand is another country born out of fire. Many of its volcanoes are still active. Hiking New Zealand offers an incredible ten day Volcanoes and Rainforest trek through the North Island’s wildernesses. This backpacker orientated tour passes through Jurassic-like podocarp rainforest and follows a river through a beautiful gorge in Whirinaki Forest Park. Kayak across the enchanting Lake Tarawera, soak in thermal streams surrounded by native bush, and climb the summit of an active volcano in the barren wastes of Tongariro National Park. You’ll camp in the wild and eat delicious home cooked food. Prices start from £971.
Iceland
The recent volcanic eruptions have now stopped and a nationwide clean up is currently taking place. So come and see this majestic country’s many volcanoes for yourself with an eight day hiking trip with Exodus. In just one week you’ll travel from rugged coast to dramatic volcanic highlands. Walking through the southern region of Fjallabak you’ll pass craters and lava flows over the Eldgja volcanic fissure. Crossing streams and skirting lakes, you’ll later descend canyons and climb peaks. This really is a land of fire and ice. Accommodation is in guesthouses and mountain huts. Prices start from £1500.
Central Africa
Combine the ultimate primate experience with a day of trekking up a volcano in the incredible scenery bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. First trek through local villages and lush rainforest, before entering Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Half of the world’s mountain gorillas reside here, so get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. Later you’ll climb one of three distinct volcanoes for incredible panoramic views of the wild African countryside. The four day trip with BootsnAll starts from £1139.
Costa Rica
Inland from the coast, Costa Rica is a diverse world of rainforests, coffee plantations, monkeys, mist and rolling hills. It is a stunningly beautiful area full of wildlife with tropical sights and sounds, so head there and see it for yourself with a five day trek with Costa Rican Trails. First you’ll hike parts of Arenal, Costa Rica’s only active volcano. This huge mountain erupts nearly every day, sending high columns of smoke into the air. You’ll then cross inland lakes with the sight of the volcano behind as you trek for six hours into the stunning Monteverde Cloud Forest to a biological station high in the hills. Prices start from £756.
Indonesia
Although not always a trekking trip, the one of a kind tour from Adventure Indonesia is an experience in itself. You’ll start by sailing the Sunda Strait to observe the infamous Krakatoa. This volcano on the sea is famous for its 1883 eruption which destroyed the surrounding area – considered one of the largest eruptions of all time. On Sertung island right by the volcano you’ll set up camp and spend the day trekking, swimming and snorkelling before sitting down to some campfire food. If the conditions are right you’ll have a chance to climb parts of the volcano itself the next day. The trip starts and ends in Jakarta.
The whole shebang
See one, or see them all? It’s a tough decision, but boy will it be worth it. Flying around the world in 24 days, Volcano Discovery has set up a mammoth trip visiting Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Indonesia. The tour includes climbing to the top of eight volcanoes, witnessing local customs, wildlife spotting, relaxing on the world’s most beautiful beaches and eating delicious local food. It doesn’t get much better than this! Prices start from £6,500.
Not only will you see nature at its most powerful, you’ll get to revel in the beauty of forested areas and barren wonderlands. Just make sure to bring your camera!
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- aeolian islands ,
- africa ,
- congo ,
- costa rica ,
- feature ,
- hiking ,
- iceland ,
- indonesia ,
- italy ,
- java ,
- mountains ,
- new zealand ,
- north island ,
- rwanda ,
- sicily ,
- tour ,
- trekking ,
- volcano ,
- walking hiking
