Mt. Yasur Volcano

Mount Yasur, the world's most active open volcano, is restlessly boiling away on Tanna Island, a 45-minute flight from Port Vila. How approachable does it appear to be? You can drive almost to the top — it's about a 10-minute walk from the parking area to the rim of a constantly erupting volcano. The experience of climbing the peak is one you'll never forget, as liquid rock gleams crimson when flung into the air, and the rumbling and hiss of expelling gases creates one of the best natural phenomena on the planet. Some tourists find Yasur frightening, while others find him fascinating.

Photographers are overjoyed by the prospect of capturing nature at its most ferocious from such an accessible vantage point. For the greatest results, a stable tripod is required. Only before sunrise and for an hour or two after dusk are the best times to visit Yasur. The supreme thrill is total darkness. Yasur's activity level fluctuates between risky and reasonably tranquil. Check the most recent alert level to see if it's more active following the wet season. Access to the volcano will be denied if it reaches activity levels three or four. This active volcano is one of Vanuatu's top tourist attractions.

Location: Tanna island, Vanuatu