Thunderous volcanoes on planet earth
By Carlton Leisure -
30/04/2014
They are active, dangerous and devastating but also create new colonies and fertile lands. Yes these are volcanoes. They are worshipped and feared and have been a source of myths and legends for ages. Volcanoes are the result of tectonic movement of earth’s crust which represents a force of nature that can be intimidating and bewildering. So come and explore these impressive, active and amazing volcanoes which are definitely worth seeing in a lifetime.
Mount Fuji, Japan
Mount Fiji is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters is a perfectly shaped volcano with a conical form and pretty snow-capped peaks. It is a among the most popular and visited tourist attractions of Japan. It is currently classified as active, though it was last erupted in 1708. An estimated 200,000 people climb the Mount Fiji every year. The ascent can take anywhere between three and eight hours while the descent can take from two to five hours.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Located in north-eastern Tanzania near the border with Kenya, Mount Kilimanjaro is currently inactive. At 5,892 meters above the sea level it is Africa’s highest peak and world’s highest free standing mountain. It is a major destination for mountaineers and trackers from around the world attracting over 35,000 visitors each year. Positioned close to equator, Mount Kilimanjaro is as famous as Africa’s snow-capped mountain looming over the plains of savannahs. If won’t climb, there is plenty to see in Kilimanjaro National Park.
Cotopaxi is the second highest summit in Ecuador with a height of 5,897 meters is clearly visible on the skyline of Quito. It is among the highest active volcanoes in the world with more than 50 eruptions since 1738. Its cone shape attract technical climbers and to those with a strong stomach for high altitudes.
Mount Mayon is renowned as the “Perfect Cone” because of its perfectly conical shape. Situated on the Philippine island of Luzon, the upper slopes of this amazing volcano are steep averaging 35-40 degrees and are capped by a small summit crater. It is among the most active volcanoes in Philippines erupted over 49 times in the past 400 years. It is one of the most beautiful volcanoes but it is dangerous so the climbers usually are devoted adventurers.
Mauna Lao and Kilauea, Hawaii
Mauna Lao is the planet’s largest volcano measuring 9,170 meter. It is outrageously active, chalking 33 eruptions since 1843. Neighbouring Kilauea is smaller but is the most active volcano on planet Earth. It is a valuable resource for volcanologists and is erupted thirty three times since 1952. Its most recent eruption started on 3rd January 1983and is still going on.
Mount Vesuvius, Italy
Universally acknowledged and extremely dangerous volcano Mount Vesuvius is located in southern Italy. It is best known for its eruptions in AD 79 that led to the destruction of Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum causing the death of 10,000 to 25,000 people. Year 1944 marked yet another eruption from this mighty volcano. The height of the main cone has been constantly changed by eruptions but presently it is 1,281 meter.
Mount Bromo is an active volcano is located some four hour drive from Surabaya, the capital of East Java. It is the part of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park that covers a massive area of 800 Square kilometer. Though it is not the highest peak of massif but the magnificent Mt Bromo will not disappoint you due to its spectacular views and dramatic landscapes. Looming over the desolate Sea of Sand during the sunrise and sunset you will come across an incredible red smoke phenomenon when the sunlight hits the smoke directly and turns it blood-red.