Ever found yourself teetering on the edge of one of earth’s most wondrous natural phenomenons, peering into a pit of molten lava which continues to explode into the air like illuminated rockets, only to find yourself thinking, “man, I could go a Snickers right now”?
No?
Maybe that’s just me.
After a recent jaunt to the quaint island of Tanna in Vanuatu (a speedy half-hour flight from Port Vila) this is exactly what happened.
In all my ‘intrepid traveller’ glory, I embarked on the two-hour-or-so drive to the majestic Mount Yasur, eager to experience the smoldering mound that apparently attracted Captain Cook to the island in 1774.
After a treacherous drive that almost brought my breakfast up (twice), a sweat inducing hike to the crater rim and a lengthy wait time in the blistering cold, I was finally able to marvel at the incredible light show nature so kindly blessed us with at sundown.
Was it all worth it?
Most definitely.
But it got me thinking, “next time I do this…”. Because hey, you never know when the chance to climb an active volcano could spring up.
1. Wear Comfy Shoes.
And preferably not white ones. The sulphur-rich volcanic sand may be beneficial to your skincare regime, but it certainly doesn’t bode well with your favourite white kicks. Don comfortable walking shoes that won’t give you blisters and ensure they’re old enough that you won’t be disappointed when they turn black.
2. Pack an Extra Knit
Turns out, Vanuatu can get cold. Especially when you’re standing about 360 metres above sea level, at sun down, beside a giant crater.
Make sure you pack that extra cover up for when the sun goes down (even if it’s one you’re happy to toss after the excursion), and don’t question yourself when it comes to pants – shorts were a big no-no.
3. Turn the Flash Off Your Camera.
Most photography buffs will be fully aware of this one but us amateurs may need a gentle reminder.
Despite what we’ve learned in the past about utilising a flash in the dark, this is one time where it’s best to wind your flash setting off. Trust me, when it comes to show and tell time, your photos will truly impress.
4. Take a Torch.
If you’re on a tour (which you will be if you’re here – good luck tracking this baby down without a guide) you’re likely to be given torches to aid you down the volcano at night. That said, it’s always handy to be self-sufficient so throw in that little keychain torch you got from last year’s Kris Kringle and make it down safely sans grazed knees.
5. Prepare to Wait. And Wait. And Wait.
In order to take full advantage of the spectacle that is exploding lava, the guides will transfer you to the volcano in the late afternoon, and then proceed to wait until night has truly fallen for the show to reach its climax. Read: standing crater-side for up to three’ish hours. This is where Point Two particularly comes in handy (hello, freezing winds) and remember – enjoy a satisfying lunch before you leave. You won’t be back to your resort until late and… volcano viewing is hungry work!
Featured image by David Kirkland/Vanuatu Tourism Office
