Volcanoes are reminders that our planet is alive and constantly reshaping itself. Standing near one, even a quiet one, feels like watching the Earth breathe. Some are dangerous and off-limits, but others can be visited responsibly. If you’ve ever wondered where the active volcanoes are and how to actually experience them, here’s a guide to some of the best spots for travelers who want to see the fire and brimstone up close.
Stromboli, Italy
Stromboli is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world and has been erupting almost continuously for over 2,000 years. The island it sits on, off the coast of Sicily, is small but dramatic: black sand beaches, whitewashed houses, and the fiery glow of the volcano above.
The real highlight is seeing the Stromboli volcano at night. Small explosions light up the sky every 15–20 minutes, throwing sparks of lava into the darkness. It’s sometimes called the “lighthouse of the Mediterranean.”
There are organized Stromboli volcano tours that take you partway up the slopes with a guide, or you can watch from a safe distance at the “Sciara del Fuoco” (Stream of Fire), where lava often flows down the side of the mountain into the sea. It’s one of the rare places on Earth where you can safely see eruptions so frequently.
Mount Vesuvius, Italy
Vesuvius is infamous for destroying Pompeii in 79 AD, freezing the Roman city in time under layers of ash. Today, it’s one of the most visited volcanoes in the world. You can actually walk up to the crater, with a wide view over the Bay of Naples below.
If you're wondering how to climb Mount Vesuvius, it's pretty straightforward. Buses run from Naples to the park entrance, and from there a trail leads to the rim in about 30 minutes of walking. It’s not too demanding, though the gravel path can be slippery. On clear days, you’ll see the city, the coast, and the smoldering crater itself. Combine it with a visit to Pompeii or Herculaneum for a trip that blends history and geology in one day.
Iceland
If you’ve wondered where to see active volcanoes in Iceland, the answer is: almost everywhere.
Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two tectonic plates are pulling apart. That’s why the country is full of volcanoes, hot springs, and geysers.
Recent eruptions near Fagradalsfjall, close to Reykjavík, drew thousands of visitors who hiked to see lava fountains and fresh lava fields still steaming. Even when nothing is erupting, you can visit older lava flows, craters, and volcanic landscapes across the island.
Many guided tours combine volcanoes with glacier walks or northern lights hunting, depending on the season.
Iceland is one of the best examples of active volcano tourism, because it balances accessibility with safety. Local authorities closely monitor activity, and when eruptions happen, routes are quickly established so people can visit safely.
Hawaii, United States
Hawai‘i is home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world, especially on the Big Island.
Kīlauea is the star, with eruptions that have shaped the landscape for decades. In 2018, its lava flows destroyed parts of communities, but they also created new land as the molten rock reached the sea.
In Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, you can walk across cooled lava fields, peer into steaming craters, and if you’re lucky, see red lava glowing inside vents at night.
Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth, is also on the island, and while climbing it is a serious undertaking, just seeing it from afar is impressive.
Guatemala
Central America is another hotspot for volcano lovers, and Guatemala in particular stands out. Near the city of Antigua, several volcanoes dominate the skyline.
The most famous experience is hiking Acatenango, where you camp overnight and watch the neighboring Fuego volcano erupt every few minutes.
It’s a demanding climb, but seeing lava shoot into the night sky is unforgettable. Pacaya, another Guatemalan volcano, is easier to reach and still active, often letting visitors roast marshmallows over hot vents near the summit.
Japan
Japan is dotted with volcanoes, many of which are still active. Mount Aso on Kyushu island has one of the largest calderas in the world, and on clear days you can see smoke rising from its crater. Mount Sakurajima, near the city of Kagoshima, erupts so often that locals are used to regular ashfall.
Then there’s Mount Fuji. Technically dormant (its last eruption was in 1707), it’s still considered an active volcano, and climbing it in summer remains one of Japan’s most iconic travel experiences.
Safety and responsible volcano tourism
Volcanoes are fascinating but unpredictable. Always follow local advice, check activity updates, and never try to get closer than recommended.
Eruptions can change conditions quickly, and gases or ash can be dangerous even if there’s no visible lava.
That said, active volcano tourism can be done responsibly. Guided tours, national parks, and well-marked trails exist in most volcanic regions to help travelers see the action without unnecessary risk.
The thrill comes not from danger but from realizing you’re standing on land that was molten rock not long ago.
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