Volcanoes often have a reputation as places to be avoided, as being near a mountain capable of ejecting lava, ash, and volcanic gases is not a common activity. However, volcanic landscapes are not always forbidden. Many of them can be visited using designated viewpoints, marked trails, or with the permission of guides, and some are located in national parks where extensive monitoring and visitor safety systems are established.
helOther volcanoes have long been silent—thousands or even millions of years ago, leaving behind impressive calderas, craters, and unusual landscapes long after the eruptions ceased. Among the world's visitable volcanoes and volcanic landscapes are Sicily, Hawaii, Kenya, and South Africa. It is important to remember one condition: volcanic conditions can change rapidly, so always check official access information before heading out.
An active volcano does not necessarily mean it is erupting at the time of your arrival. The terminology used by volcanologists can vary, but an active volcano is considered one that has erupted in relatively recent geological history or is capable of erupting again. Terms such as 'dormant' and 'extinct' also exist. A dormant volcano is currently quiet but may become active again, whereas extinct volcanoes are generally considered unlikely to erupt again. Since these designations are not always applied uniformly by all geological bodies, travelers are better off relying on the current volcanic alert level and official visitor recommendations rather than assuming a quiet-looking mountain is harmless.
Mount Etna is one of Europe's most active volcanoes and one of Sicily's most recognizable attractions. Located over the eastern part of the island, it has produced frequent eruptions over millennia, ranging from lava flows to explosive episodes. Visitors do not need to be experienced mountaineers to see Etna; lower sections are accessible for hiking, and cable cars and organized tours allow ascent higher under favorable conditions. Access to the upper parts of the mountain is controlled and can change depending on volcanic activity, weather, and safety conditions.
Etna serves as a reminder of how quickly a tourist attraction can turn into a serious natural hazard. In June 2025, a partial collapse in the Southeast crater of the volcano triggered a pyroclastic flow, causing tourists to hastily evacuate the area. Although the summit was closed to visitors and no injuries or fatalities were reported, this incident highlighted the importance of adhering to restrictions. Furthermore, Etna remains active: in August 2026, an eruption released ash that disrupted flights at Catania airport, forcing Italian authorities to maintain a high aviation alert level due to the risk posed by volcanic ash to aircraft. Anyone traveling to Sicily should check the latest data from INGV and the airport before visiting the mountain.
Mount Vesuvius, perhaps best known for its devastating eruption in 79 AD, which destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, is still considered active. It rises above Naples and the Bay of Naples and is part of the Vesuvius National Park. Visitors can walk along a specially marked route around the crater, allowing for a better assessment of the volcano's scale up close. The crater can be visited under controlled conditions, with access restrictions imposed if weather or other safety conditions make the visit inadvisable.
Vesuvius has not erupted since 1944, so it may look surprisingly peaceful. This is why it is important to remember that an active volcano does not have to be actively erupting to require constant monitoring. In 2024, a tragic incident served as a reminder that volcanic destinations carry dangers beyond the eruptions themselves: a 56-year-old British tourist died after deteriorating health while climbing Vesuvius during a period of intense heat. The death was registered as a suspected heart attack, not a volcanic event, but it underscores the necessity of taking physical exertion during mountain hikes seriously.
If Etna is dramatic, Stromboli is a volcano that loves to hold attention. This small island north of Sicily is home to one of the world's most famous continuously active volcanoes, which regularly produces small explosions, ejecting glowing volcanic material. This constant activity has earned Stromboli the nickname 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.' At night, the glow of its eruptions can sometimes be seen from the sea. Visitors can explore the island and, with official permission, join excursions to higher points. Restrictions can change depending on volcanic conditions, and access to high areas is controlled, so one cannot simply follow an old route found online. Stromboli remains active in 2026, and INGV continues to record strombolian activity and periodic lava flows. A major flare-up was also recorded in June 2026. The last fatal incident involving a tourist related to a Stromboli eruption occurred in 2019, when a tourist died during a strong explosive event, which falls outside the five-year period covered in the article but remains part of the modern history of volcano safety.
Nowhere is one better able to experience active volcanism than in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Kilauea is one of the world's most active volcanoes, which has produced episodic eruptions at its summit in recent years. The current eruption began in December 2024 and has occurred in episodes of lava fountaining separated by pauses. As of August 10, 2026, Kilauea has not erupted, although the U.S. Geological Survey predicted the possibility of another eruption between August 12 and 15. The situation can change rapidly, so anyone planning a visit should consult the latest updates from the USGS and the National Park Service, rather than relying on yesterday's information. The eruptive zone itself is closed due to hazards, including volcanic gases, unstable cliffs, ground fissures, and falling volcanic material. Instead, visitors can observe the volcanic activity from approved areas when possible. The National Park Service specifically warns visitors not to enter closed zones and to monitor air quality. These warnings are not theoretical: in February 2026, a person entered a closed zone on the eastern side of the Kilauea caldera. At the time, the volcano was not erupting, but the terrain was steep and dangerous, and the person was later found dead. This case is a particularly instructive reminder that a volcanic landscape can remain dangerous even during an eruption pause.
At an altitude of 3,715 meters above sea level, Mount Teide is Spain's highest mountain and the central element of Teide National Park. It is also a volcano and part of an active volcanic system, although Teide itself is not currently erupting. It is important to distinguish here: the last eruption on Tenerife occurred in 1909 (the Chinyero eruption), not an eruption from the summit of Teide itself. The Chinyero eruption took place on the northwest ridge of Santiago and is the last confirmed eruption on the island. The landscape around Teide looks almost otherworldly, with lava formations, volcanic rocks, and the vast Las Cañadas caldera. Visitors can ascend to great heights via cable car, although access to the summit requires additional permits and depends on weather and other factors. At this altitude, one must consider not only the volcano: cold temperatures, strong sun, thin air, and rapidly changing weather can make what seems like a simple walk significantly more challenging.
Arénal is one of Costa Rica's most recognizable landmarks, rising above the tropical forest near La Fortuna. The volcano became famous due to a long period of activity following a major eruption in 1968, during which lava flows, explosions, and other volcanic activity were observed for decades. This period of eruptions ended in 2010, and Arénal has been dormant since then. It is usually described as dormant, not extinct, meaning its volcanic history remains relevant when considering the surrounding landscape and hazards. Visitors cannot simply wander across the volcano. The surrounding area contains steep terrain, volcanic rocks, and other natural hazards, so travelers must stick to designated trails and viewpoints. One of the best aspects of visiting Arénal is that the volcano is only part of the attraction; the surrounding area with hot springs, tropical forest, waterfalls, and wildlife is a destination in itself.
The Tongariro National Park in New Zealand is a magnificent example of a volcanic landscape that is also a hiking destination. The park includes several volcanic peaks and systems, such as Mount Tongariro, Mount Ruapehu, and Mount Ngauruhoe, each with its own geological history and current level of activity. The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing passes through an environment shaped by volcanic eruptions, featuring emerald lakes, lava formations, and dramatic crater landscapes. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that this is an active volcanic environment, not just a scenic hike. New Zealand uses a six-level volcanic alert system for volcanoes in the national park, ranging from no volcanic activity to increasing levels of concern and eruption. Consequently, the alert level and trail status can change, and visitors must check the latest data from GeoNet and the Department of Conservation before setting out.
One does not have to leave South Africa to be inside an ancient volcanic landscape. Pilanesberg National Park in the North West province is located within the remnants of the Pilanesberg alkaline ring complex—an ancient volcanic structure formed about 1.2 billion years ago. The circular mountain formations around the park are deeply eroded remnants of this ancient volcanic complex. Today, there is no active lava or erupting crater here. Instead, the old volcanic landscape is home to lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. The origin of the volcano is easily overlooked when one is busy spotting wildlife, but the unusual ring-like landscape serves as a reminder of what occurred here on a geological timescale.
Ngorongoro is one of Africa's greatest geological wonders. The massive crater is actually a caldera—the collapsed remains of a giant ancient volcano. It formed approximately 2.5 million years ago after the volcanic mountain collapsed following a major eruption. Today, visitors can descend into the crater on safari without worrying about an eruption. The crater walls, grasslands, and lakes have created a wonderful ecosystem supporting a large number of wild animals. This is a good example of how volcanic activity can continue to shape the landscape even after the volcano has gone silent. There is no actively erupting volcano in the crater today, although the wider region remains volcanically active, with other volcanic systems in the East African Rift.
For something simpler, one can go to Diamond Head in Oahu. The distinctive crater overlooking Honolulu is an ancient tuff cone formed during a relatively explosive episode of volcanic activity. It is better viewed as a volcanic landscape rather than an active volcano like Kilauea or Etna. The volcanic activity that formed Diamond Head ceased long ago, and today it is one of the most famous hiking spots in Honolulu. A designated trail leads to the summit, where hikers enjoy panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.
Rising from the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, Longonot Mountain is a young stratovolcano with a large crater at its summit. It is presumed to have last erupted in the 1860s, so it is usually described as dormant, not extinct. Its volcanic system also...
The mention of Mathura peda whets the appetite of many people due to their characteristic brown color, cardamom and nutmeg aroma, and grainy texture, making them one of India's most beloved sweets. However, the traditional method of preparing these pedas requires a lot of time and effort, as the milk needs to be dried and evaporated for hours.
Nevertheless, here is the recipe from the renowned chef Pankaj Bhadauria, which allows you to make equally delicious brown pedas like those in Mathura in just 15 minutes without long labor. This quick homemade recipe is so exquisite that it is impossible to distinguish it from store-bought ones.
For the tagar:
2 cups of sugar
½ cup of water
1 tablespoon of ghee
For the peda:
2 cups of milk powder
4 tablespoons of ghee
½ cup of milk
To begin preparing the peda, you need to make the syrup. In one pan, mix the sugar and water and boil until it boils, stirring constantly. As soon as bubbles start forming in the syrup, add the ghee and mix thoroughly. Then remove from the heat and continue stirring intensely until the tagar dries completely and crystallizes.
In another pan, take the milk powder and ghee. On low heat, stir constantly until the milk turns golden-brown, but does not burn. Transfer the resulting mass to a separate container. Add 1 cup of tagar and mix well.
Balls the size of a walnut are formed from the resulting mass, which are then rolled in the tagar for a sugary coating. These pedas can be stored for a month.
This Wednesday (the 12th) will feature one of the most significant solar eclipses of the decade. In addition to marking the return of total solar eclipses to the European continent after more than 20 years, it will be the first such event in continental Spain in over a century.
More than 15 million people will be in the path of totality, while about 980 million will be able to observe the phenomenon partially. Unfortunately, Brazil's sky will not be the stage for this astronomical spectacle this time, but all details are available to view in real-time via Olhar Digital.
During the event, the Sun will be completely obscured in the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain, and a small part of Portugal. The partial phase will be visible across the rest of Europe, North Africa, and the eastern part of North America.
The event will begin at 12:34 Brazilian time in a remote point of the Arctic Ocean, north of Siberia, when the Moon's shadow first touches Earth, starting the partial eclipse phase. The spectacle will conclude just over four hours and 20 minutes later, at 16:55, in the Mediterranean Sea area, west of Italy.
The most impressive moment is expected near the western coast of Iceland, where totality may last up to two minutes and 18 seconds. In Spain, which has not recorded a total solar eclipse on its mainland territory since 1905, the total darkness will be shorter, lasting about a minute.
For those in the path of totality, this is a rare opportunity to view and photograph the solar corona—the Sun's outer atmosphere, which is usually hidden by the star's intense glare. However, special precautions are required to capture the moment. Pointing a camera, mobile phone, binoculars, or telescope directly at the Sun without proper protection can lead to equipment damage and, more importantly, vision damage.
According to EarthSky.org guidelines, the primary rule is to use specialized solar filters for astronomical observations at all stages until the Moon completely covers the Sun. This applies to cameras, lenses, telescopes, and other optical instruments.
It is also important to remember that zooming in with a camera or telescope does not mean the equipment protects your eyes. Observing the Sun directly, even for a short time, can cause serious retinal damage.
The only phase when it is safe to remove the solar filter from optical equipment is during totality, when the Moon completely covers the solar disk. As soon as the bright sunlight reappears, the filter must be immediately put back on.
With necessary safety measures observed, there are several ways to capture the eclipse. A smartphone is the simplest option for those without specialized equipment. A tripod helps stabilize the device and simplifies framing.
An alternative is using a wide-angle lens to combine the eclipse shot with the surrounding landscape. During totality, zoom can be used to get a closer view of the Sun. A mobile phone can also record video and create time-lapse sequences demonstrating the evolution of the event.
However, during partial phases, it is essential to use an appropriate solar filter to protect the camera. Standard cameras with wide-angle lenses allow for images combining the eclipse with the environment; depending on the composition, trees, buildings, mountains, and other landscape elements can help give the photo context.
It is advisable to prepare the composition before the eclipse begins so as not to waste time setting up the camera during the fastest stages of the event. A tripod also contributes to equipment stability.
For those planning to record the eclipse in greater detail via video, a telephoto lens with a focal length of 300mm to 500mm can significantly bring the image of the Sun closer. In this case, using a tripod is especially important.
Low ISO settings help reduce image noise. Aperture and shutter speed should be adjusted according to the eclipse phase and desired result. During the partial phase, a solar filter remains mandatory.
A telephoto lens is also good for obtaining more detailed eclipse photographs. The greater the focal length, the larger the Sun in the picture, but this also increases the need for stability and a carefully planned frame.
Exposure time depends on which moment is planned to be captured. A fast speed, such as 1/1000 of a second, can help capture the details of the solar disk and the surrounding area during certain phases. Those with a compatible camera are recommended to shoot in RAW format, as this format retains more information for subsequent image processing.
To get even closer shots, a telescope equipped with a tracking system can be used. This mechanism tracks the apparent movement of the Sun across the sky, keeping the celestial body in the frame longer. This technique requires extensive knowledge and specialized equipment, as well as a correctly installed solar filter. Consequently, the investment is also higher. However, the system allows for detailed recordings of the eclipse, especially during totality.
Regardless of the equipment chosen, safety must be the priority over photography. The eclipse may last only a few minutes, but improper exposure to the Sun can cause irreversible eye damage. Therefore, the best shot is the one that allows you to enjoy the event without risking equipment and, above all, your vision.
In astrology, the conjunction of the Sun and Rahu is considered an extremely significant and sensitive aspect, also known as the Rahu eclipse. When this aspect forms in the fifth house of a person's chart, its influence is particularly noticeable in areas related to intellect, education, offspring, and romantic relationships. The fifth house is traditionally considered the domain of the Sun, so a weakening of the Sun here can affect a person's mental, intellectual, and emotional balance.
The formation of the Rahu eclipse with the Sun in the fifth house leads to a non-traditional way of thinking for the individual. They tend to seek solutions to problems using unconventional or improvised methods. Such people possess a sharp mind, but their attention is often scattered, which makes it difficult to maintain continuity in education. Sometimes, frequent obstacles arise during studies, or interest changes.
If this eclipse forms in the sign of Aries, which is a high sign for the Sun, some positive aspects may be observed in the results. In this case, the person becomes self-confident, brave, and capable of making decisions. They clearly see their goals and move towards them with firm determination. Nevertheless, due to their unconventional view, they may face difficulties within the framework of the traditional education system.
If Jupiter casts a favorable gaze upon this eclipse, this aspect can turn into a blessing for the person. Such individuals become deeply understanding, knowledgeable, and influential speakers. They may achieve recognition in politics, education, or social spheres. Even without high positions, they gain respect in society due to their knowledge and personality.
Conversely, if the Sun participates in this eclipse in its low position, negative consequences manifest more clearly. The person's egoism may increase, and they will not hesitate to use dishonest means for their own benefit. Difficulties with offspring or anxiety related to children may arise. Instability, distrust, and suspicion also increase in romantic relationships, causing relationships not to last long.
Regarding love life, due to this aspect, the person often encounters either betrayal from others or becomes a deceiver themselves. Tension persists due to a lack of transparency in relationships and mental imbalance. Such people often feel emotionally insecure, which affects their decision-making.
It is impossible to completely eliminate the negative effects of this aspect, but they can certainly be balanced. To do this, the person should apply discipline, positive thinking, and spiritual practices. Regular offering of water (Arghya) to the Sun, meditation and yoga practice, as well as charity help in achieving peace of mind. Furthermore, when making decisions, it is crucial to show patience and prudence. Experts advise people with this aspect to avoid hasty actions and maintain openness in their relationships.
