New Delhi: The first volcano tourism happened in 1841 when Thomas Cook took the first group of people to see Mount Vesuvius. Coming back to 2024, millions of people flock to places like Iceland, Italy and Hawaii to experience the explosive power of local volcanoes. Also, there are many ways travellers can experience these natural formations. There are many questions, such as: What is volcano tourism? Is it safe to travel? That one must have in mind; let us know more about it.
What is Volcano Tourism?
With more than 1,500 active volcanoes worldwide, hordes of lava-chasers risk their lives to glimpse nature’s raw power. People are attracted to these volcanoes because of their fury and unpredictable nature. Volcano Tourism is a concept recognised as nature-based tourism using sustainable geo-resources as attractions, and these sites play a significant role in volcano tourism. Volcano tourism offers an interpretation of landforms in combination with recreational activities and contributes to local economies.
Volcano Tourism: Features
Volcano tourism is not just visiting the volcanic disaster sites but it involves visits to
Thermal and sulphur springs
Geysers
Visits to both active and dormant volcanoes.
Surge in Volcano Tourism
Interest in volcano tourism has increased in the past decade. The surge has been propelled by the rise of social media and by a group called the ‘lava chasers’.
These lave-chasers view smoking sites as legendary and picturesque. Over 20 active volcanic sites are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The adventurers
Venture to the very edge of the lava lakes or
Surf down the slopes of volcanoes, or
Take lava boat tours, or
Take helicopter flights over vast calderas
Is Volcano Tourism Risky?
While this might be a unique experience, it does not come without risk. While travelling, poisonous gases, which are frequently produced during eruptions, can damage your lungs.
On the other hand, rather than deterring tourism, these dangers heighten curiosity. Rather than avoiding places with active volcanoes, thrill seekers are enticed by the allure of exploring these unpredictable and dangerous landscapes. Some explorers have the opinion that it is not risky.
Volcano Tourism: Things to keep in mind
While planning a visit to any volcano, there are things that one must keep in mind.
1) Research before planning a visit and educate yourself about the particular site.
2) Read the restrictions and what the local authorities do to keep people out and safe.
3) Keep a tab on local tourism websites for updated safety information.
4) If you are visiting an active volcano site, it is best to visit with a reputable guide, as each volcano is different
5) Check if there has been a volcanic eruption or not.
There may also be cultural considerations, like Volcanoes National Park. In Hawaiian culture, volcanoes are considered living beings, and eruptions are a time of profound cultural and spiritual significance.
Some of the volcano tourism sites are
Fagradalsfjall, Iceland
Cumbre Vieja, Spain
Etna, Italy
Sakurajima, Japan
Popocatépetl, Mexico
A travel trend from the past decade involving adventure-seekers getting up close to some of the largest volcanoes in the world is on the rise. These volcanoes are becoming destinations in themselves. Let’s find out what volcano tourism is and more about it. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
