The appeal of volcanic mountains, irrespective of their fierce eruptions, lies in the terror, awe, and beauty with which each resonates.
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the five natural volcanic marvels that have proven to be excellent hiking trails for various reasons.
The Italian Treasure, Mount Etna
Mount Etna in Sicily is one of the prominent active volcanoes, and yet breathing with unimaginable natural beauty, almost as if a riot of colors has poured down from heaven. Legends and folklore add a different dimension of charm and appeal to this range, which appeals to hikers around the world.
Despite harboring fearful legends, the calm and soothing scenic beauty is a visual retreat. Since Etna erupts in abrupt fragments, it is accessible only from the northern and southern flanks. Skiing is a preferred sport at Etna as the high-altitude alpine range and strong winds concoct a favorable ambiance.
An Arduous Climb to Pacaya
The volcano hike in Guatemala is an integral cultural element, and perhaps its finest culmination is manifested through the puff of smoke that comes out of its peak. Being an accessible route, Pacaya draws a young crowd. The highlight of this trail is roasting marshmallows on the fumaroles.
The Incredibly Herculean Mount Mayon
In the Philippines, Mayon is a difficult climb, and on average, hikers spend 2-3 days completing the strenuous path. In a picture-perfect conical shape, Mayon's duality is strangely alluring. Its beauty, paired with mythology and folk tales, has rendered the hike a widely cherished and desired experience.
At Mayon, travelers are offered the options of ecological tours, hiking, ATV riding, and camping. Reputed for being a destructive volcanic zone, Mayon has destroyed and disrupted the lives of inhabitants far too many times. The incidents have bred a culture of courage and resilience among them.
The Resplendent Mount Rinjani
The active volcano Mount Rinjani in Indonesia is an amalgamation of spirituality and history, which makes the journey truly worthwhile. Located on Lombok Island, Mount Rinjani is a juxtaposition of diverse terrains ranging from savanna grass, pebbly regions, steep climbs, and tropical forest. The view from the summit is mind-boggling. The islands of Bali and Sumbawa sprawl below. If you visit during sunrise and sunset, the magic is accentuated further.
The Behemothian Villarrica
Chile's furious volcanic spot, Villarrica, makes for an equally formidable climb. Nonetheless, it is a quintessential part of Chilean travelogues and is highly sought after. At 3,000 meters above sea level, climbing by foot to the volcanic crater is a surreal experience. Its slopes are also conducive to snowboarding and skiing.
