Experience a Live Volcano – Mt. Vesuvius, Italy
What’s the first word that comes to your mind when I say “Live Volcanoes”? While I am sure 90% of you would say RUN we did just the opposite and I must say it may not be the worst decision you can take at least for the next couple of years.
A little Context:
Vesuvius located in the Gulf of Naples just 9 Kms shy of Naples is the only live volcano in the European mainland and also the most dangerous as it is the most densely populated locality around a live volcano. While multiple eruptions have happened in the last century the last biggest eruption was in AD79 destroying entire settlements of
What to expect:
A good 40-minute hike up to the top of the volcano and what more on one side you get the view of smoke coming out like the lava is just waiting to erupt (read the adrenaline rush that comes with it) and on the other side see the sprawling view of south Italy expanding in all bright and vivid colors as far as your eyes can see
My best moment:
Kind of an obvious one here but nevertheless, that feeling when you see those tiny wisps of smoke coming out like its whispering the impending doom. If you want to go one step further you can head to Pompeii right after the visit to Vesuvius to see the ruins of what damage those tiny wisps of smoke grew into last time it erupted.
How to Get There:
The best way to get there is by road from Naples. There are several tour operators in Naples who ply buses from the pick-up point near the city centre to the starting of trek up to Vesuvius.
A word of caution:
Be wary of rogue muggers in Naples and fake tour operators demanding upfront cash. It is preferable to make your bookings for the transport through the hostels/ hotels you are staying in and ensure you watch your passport like a hawk.