The purpose of this book is to introduce its readers to the wonderful world of volcanoes and to help them visit, explore, photograph, and, above all, appreciate volcanoes both in eruption and in repose. Volcanoes have shaped the Earth's surface and are nature's most awesome manifestation of the power within our planet. One of the surprising facts about volcanoes is that they are among the most scenic places on Earth yet only a few of them attract a significant number of visitors. Volcanic eruptions are undoubtedly one of nature's most spectacular events, but relatively few people can claim to have witnessed one first-hand, and most of them did not do so by choice. The increase in adventure travel over the past two decades has not yet reached most of the world's volcanoes. Travel companies are quite willing to take tourists all over the globe to meet gorillas, canoe in piranha–infested waters, or dive with sharks, but not, it seems, to watch a volcano erupt.

What should people do if they want to visit a volcano, particularly an active one? They can choose a volcano within a well–run national park and rely on information and advice given there. But, if the volcano they want to go to is more isolated, or in a country with fewer resources, travelers will be very much on their own. In practice, this may mean not venturing up the slopes at all or, even worse, ending up in places where experienced volcanologists would fear to tread. In order to explore a volcano in the most sensible and enjoyable way, visitors need to know the dangers they might encounter, as well as the wonders they might see. The Volcano Adventure Guide strives to give readers this knowledge.