Enchanting places where volcanos dominate the skyline

As natural phenomena go, volcanos are one of the most impressive. Caused by a rupture in the earth’s crust, the hypnotic spectacle of an erupting volcano spewing hot lava is one of the most powerful sights imaginable.

While most of the world's volcanos are found underwater, there are more than 1500 active volcanos on Earth, with around 50-70 erupting yearly, according to The British Geological Survey. These conical forms have the power to change landscapes, dramatically creating solidified lava flows, volcanic hot springs and majestic geysers.

New Zealand, Costa Rica, and Iceland are just a few countries where the wonderous effects of volcanic landscapes can be witnessed easily, since hiking routes wind right through these spellbinding scenes. But there are cities with panoramic volcanic views and towns towered over by mighty extinct volcanoes too. So whether you want to photograph these enigmatic landforms from afar or get up close, here’s where to find the most beautiful volcanic landscapes in the world.