Best rain boots for women in 2025
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Many travelers don't think about rain boots until they need them, and by then, they may wish they'd chosen differently. If the forecast at your destination calls for clouds, you may want to consider packing a pair.
A good pair of rain boots won't just keep your feet dry. They should fit well, feel comfortable, and have good traction for confidence while exploring wet city streets.
We considered those factors while researching the best rain boots for women. We also consulted travel and medical experts for their insights. Among our top picks, the Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots rose to the top. They're built to last, with full shaft protection from downpours. But we found many more great options, from ankle booties to dressier heeled options.
The best women's rain boots
A good rain boot should be fully waterproof, comfortable enough for extended wear, and provide solid traction on wet or uneven surfaces. Look for sealed seams, cushioned insoles, and slip-resistant soles. In especially cold climates, rain boots with insulation and breathable linings will serve you well. Here's how our top picks stacked up.
Best rain boots for women overall: Hunter Original Tall Rain Boot
Photograph courtesy Hunter Boots
Hunter Original Tall Rain Boot
Buy it now at Hunter Boots
Why we like it: The Hunter Original Tall Rain Boot has a classic design, durable construction, and full-length protection. Made from vulcanized natural rubber for extra durability, these boots are fully waterproof with a polyester liner—all certified vegan, according to the brand.
Some reviewers say they've worn their Hunter rain boots for a decade and only now need to replace them. Reviewers also highlight the comfortable fit, noting the supportive design even after miles of walking. The treaded outsole enhances grip on slick surfaces and in muddy terrain.
Keep in mind: Some reviewers say these are a bit difficult to remove due to the narrow boot shaft. While there is a buckle, it isn't functional, so these rain boots wouldn't work for travelers with wide calves.
Product details: Material: Natural rubber upper, polyester lining, treaded rubber outsole | Height: Knee | Weight: 27 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-11
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Best Chelsea rain boots for women: Blundstone 510 Chelsea Boot
Photograph courtesy Zappos
Blundstone 510 Waterproof Chelsea Boot
Buy it now at Zappos
Why we like it: Blundstone's 510 Chelsea boots are rugged yet versatile. While they aren't fully waterproof, we chose them because they're functional across different weather conditions and a great alternative to traditional rain boots.
Crafted from premium water-resistant leather with a shock-absorbing midsole and a cushioned footbed, these boots transition smoothly from sightseeing to dinner. Reviewers appreciate that Blundstones require minimal break-in time. The front and back tab design with elastic side panels make them easy to slip on and off, while the slip-resistant outsole helps keep you stable on wet surfaces.
Unlike full rubber rain boots, the leather upper allows for better breathability, helping to prevent overheating during warmer months. We also like the thermo-urethane outsole, which won't break down as quickly in harsh conditions. They're lightweight yet sturdy, offering a balance of protection and flexibility.
Keep in mind: The leather upper requires occasional maintenance. Applying a waterproofing spray can help extend the lifespan of these rain boots.
Product details: Material: Water-resistant leather upper, cushioned midsole, thermo-polyurethane outsole | Height: Ankle | Weight: 19 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-11
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Best short rain boots for women: Hunter Play Short Rain Boots
Photograph courtesy Hunter Boots
Hunter Play Boots
Buy it now at Hunter Boots
Why we like it: For lightweight rain protection with a modern look, the Hunter Play Short Rain Boot is a great option.
Made from natural rubber, these rain boots are fully waterproof. The short shaft makes them easy to slip on and off, while still providing ample coverage. The lightweight build and flatter platform sole make these comfortable all day, with enough traction for wet sidewalks and muddy paths.
While they lack an adjustable buckle, we don't mind because the spacious opening lets you layer socks which feel extra nice against the polyester lining.
Keep in mind: Because these are short rain boots, they won't provide as much coverage as tall boots in rainy weather. However, they are easier to pack and wear while traveling through airports and train stations.
Product details: Material: Natural rubber upper, recycled polyester lining, rubber outsole | Height: Ankle | Weight: 22 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-11
Best tall rain boots for women: Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
Photograph courtesy Hunter Boots
Hunter Original Tall Rain Boot
Buy it now at Hunter Boots
Why we like it: Travelers looking for tall rain boots can't go wrong with our top overall pick. With a 16-inch shaft and vulcanized rubber construction, these boots provide full coverage without feeling stiff or heavy. The rubber outsole offers added grip.
These boots have a polyester lining and room for thick socks (the side buckle is merely decorative).
Keep in mind: Some travelers may find the shaft hits at the back of the knees, which may be a bit uncomfortable when sitting.
Product details: Material: Natural rubber upper, polyester lining, treaded rubber outsole | Height: Knee | Weight: 27 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-11
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Best insulated rain boots for women: Sorel Caribou Women's Waterproof Boot
Photograph courtesy Zappos
Sorel Caribou Women's Waterproof Boot
Buy it now at Zappos
Why we like it: The Sorel Caribou is made with a nine-millimeter removable felt liner and a cozy Sherpa-pile snow cuff. With a seam-sealed waterproof leather upper and a vulcanized rubber shell, these boots are made to keep feet dry even in heavy rain. We love the removable liner—a practical feature for easier maintenance.
They're also great for a day of exploring, with a cushioned footbed and a supportive midsole. The 'AeroTrac' rubber outsole is made to 'shed' debris and water, preventing buildup thereby improving grip, according to the brand. Reviewers praise the rugged construction and longevity, with many noting that their Sorel Caribous have lasted multiple seasons without significant wear.
Keep in mind: The laces and zippers aren't waterproof. Take care to avoid stepping in deep puddles.
Product details: Material: Waterproof leather upper, recycled felt inner boot, vulcanized rubber shell with 'AeroTrac' outsole | Height: Low calf | Weight: 27 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-12
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Best wide calf rain boots for women: Aigle Parcours 2 Vario Boots
Aigle Parcours 2 Vario Boots
Buy it now at Aigle
Why we like it: The Aigle Parcours 2 Vario offers a customizable fit via an adjustable gusset that also makes this boot easy to pull on and off.
Handcrafted in France from flexible natural rubber, the Aigle Parcours 2 Varios are fully waterproof but don't sacrifice comfort. Unlike traditional rain boots, they have a three-density rubber sole and shock-absorbing heel to help reduce fatigue. We also like the quick-drying polyester lining, which helps keep feet dry.
According to the brand, the lug outsole is made to be 'self-cleaning,' preserving traction.
Keep in mind: While the Aigle Parcours 2 Vario Boots offer all-day comfort, the three-density sole and anti-fatigue heel make the boot heavier than other rain boot options.
Product details: Material: Natural rubber upper, quick-drying polyester lining, tri-density rubber sole | Height: Knee | Weight: 38.5 oz. per boot | Sizes: 6-15
Best wide calf rain boots for women runner-up: Jileon Extra Wide Calf Rain Boots
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Jileon Extra Wide Calf Womens' Rain Boots
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: We also love these Jileon Extra Wide Calf Rain Boots. They're designed for calf sizes ranging from 16 to 23 inches, with adjustable buckles for a snug fit.
Customers love the spacious design of these 100-percent waterproof vegan boots, noting that the wide foot and ankle design make them easy to slip on and off. The padded insoles and treaded soles offer enhanced comfort and grip.
Keep in mind: While the Jileon Extra Wide Calf Rain Boots offer ample space, some reviewers say the generous ankle width can cause socks to slip around especially on long walks. Wearing thick socks or adding an insole may help.
Product details: Material: Natural rubber upper with adjustable gussets, padded insoles, treaded rubber outsole | Height: Mid-calf | Weight: 24 oz. per boot | Sizes: 6-13
Best women's rain boots for walking: Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boot
Photograph courtesy Merry People
Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boot
Buy it now at Merry People
Why we like it: The Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boot stands out as our top choice for walking in wet conditions. These boots are crafted from high-quality natural rubber, giving them 100-percent waterproof protection. The interior includes a four-millimeter neoprene lining, which isn't just soft and warm, it also helps keep these boots flexible and comfortable—great for extended walks, which reviewers consistently point out.
The pull tabs and elastic side panels make them easy to slip on and off, and the insole is removable. We also like the wide toe box and the wider range of sizes. It's also worth noting that reviewers say the rubber resists scuffs.
Keep in mind: The neoprene lining may make the boots too warm in hot or humid climates.
Product details: Material: Natural rubber upper, rubber outsole | Height: Ankle | Weight: 27 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-14
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Best women's rain boots for walking runner-up: Xtratuf Women's 6-Inch Ankle Deck Boot
Photograph courtesy Xtratuf
Xtratuf Women's 6-Inch Ankle Deck Boot
Buy it now at Xtratuf
Why we like it: We also love the Xtratuf rain boot for this category. Originally designed for commercial fishing, these fully waterproof boots provide great traction on slick, wet surfaces. They're comfortable and have a removable insole. We really like the antimicrobial neoprene lining, which helps regulate temperature and prevent moisture buildup.
The pull-on design, with front and back loops, allows for quick and easy wear, while the non-marking, slip-resistant outsole enhances stability on wet pavement, docks, or muddy trails.
Keep in mind: Some reviewers say the rubber in these boots may not be as durable as expected with heavy use. Some even report cracking after less than a year of wear. Using a rubber conditioner may help extend the life of these rain boots.
Product details: Material: Rubber upper, neoprene lining, slip-resistant rubber outsole rubber outsole | Height: Ankle | Weight: 20 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-11
Most stylish rain boots for women: Sorel Caribou X Women's Heel Chelsea Boot
Photograph courtesy Zappos
Sorel Caribou X Women's Heel Chelsea Boot
Buy it now at Zappos
Why we like it: The Sorel Caribou X has a unique look while packing plenty of functionality. It's made with a waterproof full-grain leather upper and a molded rubber outsole (engineered to add traction without weight), plus a cushioned EVA midsole. The two-inch block heel and 1.5-inch platform look good with both casual and dressier outfits.
Some reviewers report that these boots require a short break-in period, but feel pretty comfortable after. Customers also say the lateral zipper and elastic gore panels make it easy to slip these boots on and off.
Keep in mind: These rain boots run slightly large, so size down.
Product details: Material: Waterproof full-grain leather upper, textile and synthetic lining, rubber outsole with EVA midsole | Height: Ankle | Weight: 17.8 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-12
Best rain boots for women with arch support: Bogs Neo-Classic Tall
Why we like it: Designed with a contoured EVA footbed with gel cushioning, these boots provide solid comfort and support, making them ideal for extended wear. The fully waterproof seamless construction means feet stay bone dry.
We also like that the boot has seven millimeters of 'NeoTech' waterproof insulation, making the boot warm enough for freezing temperatures—down to -58°F, according to the brand. The 'BioGrip' slip-resistant outsole helps with traction, while the 'Rebound' cushioning helps absorb impact and reduce fatigue for lasting comfort on long travel days, according to the brand.
Keep in mind: Bogs does not ship the Neo-Classic Tall to California or New York.
Product details: Material: Rubber upper, waterproof insulation, BioGrip rubber outsole with Rebound cushioning | Height: Mid-calf | Weight: 23.5 oz. per boot | Sizes: 6-12
Best lightweight women's rain boots for travel: Kamik Heidi 2
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Kamik Heidi 2
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: Weighing just over 21 ounces per boot, the Kamik Heidi 2 rain boots are significantly lighter than many others but still have plenty of comfort and support. The removable 'CushyStep Everyday' EVA foam footbed helps with shock absorption, which makes each step more comfortable on long walks or while sightseeing. Made from fully waterproof, phthalate-free synthetic rubber, they also have a Portland non-marking outsole for traction.
Keep in mind: Some reviewers say the color fades a bit over time. These boots run small, so size up, especially if you plan to wear thicker socks.
Product details: Material: Synthetic rubber upper, synthetic rubber outsole | Height: Mid-calf | Weight: 21.3 oz. per boot | Sizes: 6-11
Best planet-friendly rain boots for women: Thesus Anyday Rain Boot
Thesus Anyday Rain Boot
Buy it now at Thesus
Why we like it: Handcrafted in a family-run factory in Portugal, Thesus Anyday Rain Boots feature an upper made from recycled rubber with each pair diverting roughly three pounds of waste from oceans and landfills, according to the brand.
We love that the boots have a memory foam insole and that it's lined with 100-percent recycled nylon, according to the brand. The shoes are also easy to pull on and off, thanks to the pull tabs and the stretchy side panels.
Keep in mind: These boots run narrow, so travelers may want to size up.
Product details: Material: Recycled rubber upper, nylon side panels, memory foam insoles, partially-recycled outsole | Height: Ankle | Weight: N/A | Sizes: 6-12
Best planet-friendly rain boots for women runner-up: Roma Chelsea Rain Boots
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Roma Chelsea Women's Rain Boots
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: The Roma Chelsea rain boot is another great choice for the eco-conscious. They're made from natural rubber that's 100-percent waterproof, with a cotton liner for wicking away moisture. The classic Chelsea boot silhouette includes elastic side panels and a pull-tab for easy on-and-off wear, while the lightweight rubber outsole provides good traction. What we love most about these boots is the company's 'buy one, give one' program, in which the company says it donates a new pair of boots to a child in need with every purchase.
Keep in mind: Roma Boots tend to run slightly large, and they have a very limited size range.
Product details: Material: Natural rubber upper, cotton lining, natural rubber outsole | Height: Ankle | Weight: N/A | Sizes: 6-11
Best durable rain boots for heavy rain & mud: Muck Boot Chore Mid
Why we like it: The Muck Boot Chore Mid is made for the mud and muck, thanks to the durable rubber overlay and reinforced toe and heel. The five-millimeter neoprene upper is flexible and comfortable, while the insulation helps keep feet warm. On top of that, the breathable lining wicks away moisture.
Longtime customers, particularly in outdoor work settings, consistently praise the boots' durability and reliability. According to the manufacturer, the comfort range spans from sub-freezing to 65°F, making these boots a versatile choice for year-round wear.
Keep in mind: Multiple reviewers note that the boots may feel too warm, especially in warm, humid climates.
Product details: Material: Neoprene upper, mesh lining, rubber outsole | Height: Mid-calf | Weight: N/A | Sizes: 5-11
Best everyday wear rain boots for women: L.L. Bean 8-Inch Boot
Why we like it: With a timeless design and sturdy handcrafted construction, the L.L. Bean Women's Bean Boots have been wet-weather staples since their 1912 debut. They combine a full-grain leather upper with a waterproof rubber bottom and a chain-tread sole made to tackle rain and mud virtually anywhere. Reviewers say they've worn them on trails and in the snow and mud.
We like that they come in medium and wide sizes and the company's resoling program. Customers can extend the life of boots with a new sole for around $50. Travelers looking for warmer boots can opt for the insulated, flannel-lined, or fleece-lined versions.
Keep in mind: Although Bean Boots offer excellent waterproofing, including the stitching on the rubber shell, they're not designed to be submerged in water. Bean Boots run large; customers recommend going down a full size.
Product details: Material: Water-resistant full-grain leather upper, waterproof rubber outsole | Height: Low calf | Weight: 22 oz. per boot | Sizes: 5-11
How we chose the best rain boots for women
To find the best rain boots, we scoured the Internet for best bets, spent hours watching detailed review videos, went deep into online forums, and analyzed hundreds of customer reviews. We also tested some of the boots ourselves, stepping into puddles and trudging through mud to assess waterproofing, traction, and overall comfort. Here's what we considered:
• Third-party reviews: We analyzed expert reviews from trusted sources to assess long-term performance, waterproofing effectiveness, and overall user satisfaction.
• Brand longevity: We prioritized brands with a strong reputation for quality and proven track records of making reliable, long-lasting rain boots.
• Key features: We focused on essential rain boot qualities, including 100-percent waterproof construction, slip-resistant soles, insulation options for colder weather, and ease of wear.
• Personal testing: Whenever possible, we wore and tested the boots ourselves, evaluating fit, comfort, and waterproof performance on slick pavements, muddy trails, and deep puddles.
Tips for buying women's rain boots
Size and fit
Rain boots should be roomy enough for thick socks, but they should fit securely around the heel and ankle to prevent slipping. If you're between sizes, many brands recommend sizing up because a slightly looser fit is better than a tight one, which can restrict circulation.
According to Yash Mehta, a spine and sports medicine specialist based in Virginia, the best way to ensure proper fit is to pay attention to how your foot sits inside the boot. 'Your toe should touch the front of the shoe but should not be rubbing against it,' he says. 'You shouldn't feel like you have to bend your toes to make space inside. Your ankle should be a little more snug to provide flexibility, and you always want to try the boots on with socks to make sure they don't feel too tight afterward.'
Material quality
Natural rubber is often more durable and flexible in cold weather than synthetic PVC or plastic. High-quality boots feature sealed seams to prevent leaks and lined interiors for added comfort. If sustainability is a priority, look for brands that use recycled rubber, like Thesus's Anyday Rain Boot.
Traction and grip
A good women's rain boot should prevent slipping on wet pavement, mud, or snow. Look for deep-lug soles, herringbone tread patterns, or slip-resistant chevron-design outsoles to provide the best stability.
Heel height and boot shaft
While tall rain boots offer extra protection against rain and splashes, shaft height doesn't directly impact comfort. Instead, heel height is what really matters. 'For every inch you add to the heel, you're putting about 25 percent more strain on the front of your feet as well as your lower back,' says Mehta. 'If you're in these boots for a long time, you're altering your biomechanics and adding significant stress to your lower body.'
Weather
The right rain boots for women should match the climate at your destination. In freezing temperatures, waterproofing alone won't keep your fee warm. Opt for insulated boots with materials like 'NeoTech' or fleece linings, such as our pick, the Sorel Caribou Women's Waterproof Boot. In mild, wet conditions, a lightweight, ankle-high rain boot, like the Hunter Play Rain Boots, will be more practical.
For heavy rain and mud, taller boots with deep-lug outsoles provide better coverage and grip, while in warm, humid environments, boots with breathable mesh linings help prevent overheating. The Muck Boot Chore Mid Boot may a good bet in those conditions.
Mehta recommends wearing well-ventilated or thinner socks to improve comfort when wearing rain boots in hot, humid areas.
Frequently asked questions
Should rain boots be tight or loose?
Women's rain boots should fit snugly around the heel and ankle but allow wiggle room for toes. A slightly loose fit is preferable, especially if you're in cold, wet climates where you need to wear thick socks.
How can you stretch out rain boots?
If your rain boots feel too tight, try wearing thick socks and using a boot stretcher overnight. Applying low heat with a hairdryer while gently flexing the material can also help loosen them. However, take care to avoid damaging your new rain boots.
Are all rain boots waterproof?
Most rain boots are fully waterproof, but some fashion-focused designs may only be water-resistant, which involves a finish or coating that can wear off over time. Always check the materials, sealed seams, and shaft height to ensure full protection against wet conditions, or try using a water sealing spray made for leather and synthetic footwear.
Iona Brannon is a travel writer and photojournalist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Follow her on
is a travel writer and photojournalist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Follow her on Instagram
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
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If you're lucky, you may spot otters at dusk. Park at the moorings for Glasson Lakehouse, on the lake's southeastern shore. Inside, it's all tufted leather, waxed timber beams and stone fireplaces. At Bonnie's restaurant, Glasson native Dee Adamson crafts seasonal menus that marry Irish ingredients with pan-European flair, including dishes like chargrilled pork belly with onion tuille. Sleep on the boat or splash out on a room here — they come with a record player, lots of funky art and some have a lake-view balcony. MorningGlide back south to Athlone — one of the largest towns in the heartlands and on the Shannon. This is, in many ways, Ireland's crossroads, having witnessed rebellions, sieges and Viking raids. As you walk from the marina, your first sight is of Athlone Castle, built in 1210 and remodelled during the Napoleonic period into the hulking, multi-towered fortification that still stands. Inside, an interactive exhibition describes the town's history. Next door, the Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul is a powerful statement of post-independence Catholicism. For lunch, stop by The Left Bank Bistro: the crowd-pleasing menu includes chunky focaccia sandwiches using local produce. AfternoonThe approach to Clonmacnoise from the river is one that catches the breath, as spectral shadows on the horizon resolve into a gutted monastery, twin towers and a scattering of Celtic crosses. This was once one of the most important religious settlements in Europe, founded by Saint Ciarán in around 545 CE. Temple Ciarán, just 10ft wide, is believed to be the saint's resting place, from which pilgrims still take a pinch of earth for luck. Also seek out the 13ft-high Cross of the Scriptures, carved with scenes of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. It's now housed in the visitor centre, where you'll also find original grave slabs, a video presentation and an exhibition on life on the Callows. EveningReturn to Athlone for the nightlife. Fill up first at Thyme, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant on the banks of the Shannon serving elevated Irish cuisine in a swish, herb-coloured dining room. Afterwards, head next door to the Dead Centre microbrewery to sample its IPAs, stouts and ales. Athlone is perhaps most famous as the home of Sean's Bar — officially the oldest pub in Ireland, dating to 900 CE. A section of the original wattle-and-daub wall is still visible, next to the Guinness World Record certificate. Grab an Irish coffee — laced with the bar's own Sean's Whiskey — and if there's live music, nod along to the thrum of fiddle and bodhrán (drum). Carrick-on-ShannonThe Shannon's northern reaches show a different side to the river: narrower, curvier and dotted with islands. Boat trips here often start at Carrick-on-Shannon, the largest town in County Leitrim. Pick up urban walking trail guides at the tourist information centre and explore its architectural curiosities: the Italianate-Gothic fusion of Hatley Manor, the pastel facades and vibrant doors of St George's Terrace. Most curious of all is the 12ft-wide Costello Memorial Chapel — Ireland's smallest church. Businessman Edward Costello built it in 1879 in memory of his wife, Mary Josephine. Next door is the multi-award-winning Flynn's Bar, where bartenders pull pints of Guinness as smooth as the Shannon. Lough KeyMeandering north west from Carrick-on-Shannon, you'll glide past bobbing cormorants and the indigo smudge of Sliabh an Iarainn (Iron Mountain). Once you've squeezed through Clarendon Lock, the trees part onto the silvery mirror of Lough Key, where you'll meet McDermott's Castle. Tie up at the jetty for the Lough Key Forest Park — formerly the Rockingham Estate, owned by the aristocratic King family. The Rockingham Remembered self-guided tour leads you through the bowels of the old house, which burned down in 1957. There's also a tree canopy walk, and the Moylurg Tower, resembling a Brutalist headstone, has a fantastic view of the lough and its islands — if you can scale its 160 steps, that is. BoyleSouth west of Lough Key, slip into a narrow, hedgerow-hemmed canal running parallel to the Boyle River, which ends in a marina. From there, it's a short walk to the market town of Boyle. If you can, time your visit with the Courtyard Farmers' Market, open on Saturdays — you'll find locally made Leitrim Hill Creamery cheeses, Pyne's preserves from County Sligo, handmade jewellery and watercolour paintings. Otherwise, drop into King House, a restored Georgian mansion. Inside is a collection of Irish paintings and sculptures, plus international pieces donated by former Irish president Mary McAleese. Afterwards, wander up to Boyle Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery with carvings of monks and animals in its upper reaches. Published in the June 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
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6 days ago
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Volcano tourism is booming, but is it too risky?
On June 2, 2025, Italy's Mount Etna, one of Earth's most active volcanoes, erupted again, releasing what experts called a 'lava fountain' that sent tourists rushing downhill to safety. In late March 2021, thousands of people in Iceland hiked into the Geldingadalur valley to watch fiery lava splutter and spill from the crater of the Fagradalsfjall volcano after it erupted for the first time in nearly 800 years. As white ash clouds puffed above trails of glowing, molten rock inching through craggy black stones, some visitors took photos, others sat in quiet awe, and a few toasted marshmallows over the lava flows. Photographer Chris Burkard, who captured the eruption for National Geographic, was transfixed by the ominous-but-beautiful landscape too. 'It was mesmerizing,' he says. 'I never thought something as simple as molten rock would get me this excited.' The aftermath of eruptions has created famously fertile ground for tourism. Japanese tourists have bunked at onsen ryokans (hot springs inns) in villages near volcanoes since the 8th century. The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, preserved by a blanket of ashes when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79, lured countless sightseers on the European Grand Tour in the 17th and 18th centuries. But the steam, crackle, and pop of active volcanoes has an allure all its own. 'They're one of the most primeval forces of nature that we can observe,' says Benjamin Hayes, chief of interpretation and education for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. 'You feel the power of Mother Earth near this lifeblood of the planet.' Traveling to an active volcano isn't without risks and ethical questions. It can be the thrill of lifetime—or a fatal attraction. Before you get fired up to see one, here's what you should know. In the last decade, volcano tourism has boomed, fueled in part by social media and so-called 'lava chasers.' They seek legendary, photogenic smoking spots like Mount Vesuvius (and the other two dozen-plus active volcanic sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List). In the United States, several national parks feature active volcanoes, including Mount Rainier in Washington State, Lassen Peak in California, and the Yellowstone Caldera in Wyoming. The day after the Island of Hawaii's Mount Kilauea erupted on December 20, 2020, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park saw a sharp spike in visitors. Many of the 8,000 guests were locals, but the park also saw a steady increase of out-of-state visitors as COVID-19 travel restrictions eased. Depending on the place, travelers can take lava boat tours, hop helicopter trips over calderas, surf down the slopes of a volcano, or even walk to the edge of the lava lake. But these endeavors come with risk. Eruptions often produce poisonous gasses (e.g., sulfur dioxide, present at Fagradalsfjall) that can damage your lungs. Between 2010 and 2020, at least 1,143 people have been killed in volcanic explosions, most recently near New Zealand's Whakaari/White Island volcano, which suddenly erupted December 9, 2019, killing 22 tourists and injuring 25 others. (Visiting a volcano? Here's how to stay safe.) Yet, these casualties seem to have fueled curiosity rather than deterred tourism. Instead of steering clear of erupting volcanoes, sensation seekers are drawn to disaster areas—a trend expected to continue after the pandemic. Volcanic eruptions happen when there's an increase in magma-static pressure or a shift in tectonic plates, which can also spur earthquakes. Sometimes, erosion or melting glaciers slowly move the earth and eventually spur eruptions; other times sudden landslides trigger them. Volcanic activities are monitored by scientific observatories around the world, so blow ups are rarely a surprise. (For a bit of armchair volcanology, use the Smithsonian Institution's online active eruption tracker.) 'If you know some of the basics, you can observe eruptions fairly safely,' says Rosaly M.C. Lopes, a volcanologist and planetary geologist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. 'We're lucky that the most beautiful eruptions—in Hawaii, Iceland, and Stromboli, Italy—are also not the most explosive ones.' Author of the Volcano Adventure Guide, Lopes says it's important to know the type of volcanoes you're visiting. The volatility of a given site depends on its lava: thin and runny lava flows out of the volcano slowly, while thick and viscous lava makes it difficult for gas to escape, resulting in more explosive (and possibly, deadly) eruptions. Knowing which sort you are dealing with could potentially save your life. When Italy's Mount Etna erupted in 1987, two tourists were killed. Lopes was only a mile away on a research trip when it happened. 'If it's a volcano like Etna, and there is a sudden explosion, look up and see where these rock fragments are going to land,' she says. 'But you don't run; you dodge them. And after fragments land, you run.' On the opposite spectrum, during the sudden eruption of New Zealand's Whakaari/White Island volcano, Lopes says those who survived were likely the ones who sprinted the fastest. 'Some people stayed to take photos. I think some just got caught and couldn't run fast enough,' she says. 'But that is a dangerous volcano, and volcanologists knew it could have a sudden explosion.' There are more than 1,500 active volcanoes in 81 countries. For the hundreds of millions of people who reside near them, they're just a part of daily life, like bad traffic or frequent rain. One of Japan's most active volcanos, Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture in Kyushu, erupts every four to 24 hours. 'The people of Kagoshima don't even bother looking up when Sakurajima erupts, it happens so often,' says Alex Bradshaw, director of Overseas Communications of Kagoshima Prefecture. (Learn what it's like to live beside a volcano.) The relationship between Sakurajima and the locals is reciprocal. Fertile soil near the volcano helps Kagoshima grow its famed daikon radishes and tiny komikan oranges. 'Without Sakurajima there would be no Kagoshima. It's the symbol of our city, and the people here view it as a protective god,' says Naoto Maesako, owner of Kagoshima City's Yogan Yaki restaurant, where vegetables, kurobuta pork, and wagyu beef are cooked on hot plates made from local lava. 'We feel that Sakurajima sees us through typhoons and other disasters safely. It's our history right in front of us, and we can see the same smoldering scene as our ancestors did.' In Hawaii, the connection between volcanoes and residents is a part of the islands' origin story. Ancient Hawaiian chants refer to Pele, goddess of volcanoes and fire, as 'she who shapes the sacred land.' 'The Hawaiian people have been here and have flourished for more than 1,000 years,' says Hayes. 'It's impossible not to be connected deeply with generations of cherished stories, ancestors, and family connection to the 'aina—the land.' Some volcano tourism veers close to disaster or dark tourism. In 2010, 353 people died and more than 400,000 people lost their homes when Indonesia's Mount Merapi erupted. Soon after, tour companies popped up specifically to offer excursions to the ash-buried villages. It is an echo of the human casts and imprints at Pompeii, which reveal a terrifying account of the final days of its residents. (Learn about 'dark tourism'' and why travelers are drawn to disasters.) In 2018, Mount Kīlauea's continued eruptions destroyed approximately 600 homes, as well as roads, farms, and ranches, on the Island of Hawaii. That May, while fires still raged in neighborhoods, tourist spending increased by 3.3. percent to $173.9 million. Hospitality companies had to balance meeting traveler's needs with sensitivity towards affected residents. Ross Birch, executive director of the Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau, encourages tourists who are curious about volcanoes to stick to the national park. 'It's a great place to learn about the volcanoes,' Birch says. 'Anything outside of that, you might cross into private property and potentially end up in someone's backyard.' Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) geologist Frank Trusdell recalls that within 24 hours of the Mauna Loa eruption in 1984, plane tickets to the Island of Hawaii were sold out. 'Everybody wanted to come to see the eruption,' he says. Scientists like Trusdell understand why people are drawn to volcanoes, and they believe this helps raise aware and interest in volcanology. 'Every time you go somewhere that you see a geological process—even if it's fairly tame volcanos like Yellowstone geysers—it awakens your curiosity,' says Lopes. 'It gives you a much greater respect for our planet.' This story originally published on April 2, 2021. It has been updated.
