Face to face with the volcano

In search of adventures that make the heart race and take your breath away, Annika and Mathias, two passionate travel photographers from the Palatinate region, lead us into a world far removed from the everyday. Their story begins on a Saturday morning in March 2022, a morning that seemed like any other, overshadowed by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and its restrictions. But this day was to be anything but ordinary, as a piece of news broke through the fog of monotony: The volcano in Iceland had erupted!

The two adventurers, whose experiences range from safaris in South Africa to encounters with whale sharks in Indonesia, had never encountered an erupting volcano. Despite the pandemic, lockdowns, and quarantine requirements, they decided this was an adventure they simply couldn't miss. Armed with a spontaneous vacation proposal and a dose of courage, they set off for Iceland ten days later, filled with the anticipation of experiencing the unimaginable.

Their arrival in Reykjavik, overshadowed by the smoke from the volcano, marked the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. After a five-day quarantine and multiple COVID tests, they were finally granted freedom to move around the country. On Easter Sunday, a freezing day with temperatures around -10 degrees Celsius, they set out for Fagradalsfjall. The hike, a challenging climb through ancient volcanic fields and steep slopes, rewarded them with a breathtaking sight: a glowing lava vent roaring out its energy.

Amidst this epic natural spectacle, she was accompanied by a faithful companion: Drakensberg's "Henry" backpack . This backpack, symbolic of the adventure and specialness of their journey, carried not only their gear but also the memory of an experience that captures the essence of what Drakensberg stands for—the pursuit of unforgettable adventures, equipped with luggage as unique and durable as the experiences themselves.

The Earth revealed its most dynamic side as two more volcanic craters formed and the landscape transformed once again. Annika and Mathias' journey to the volcano, a striking testament to the power and beauty of nature, leaves a lasting message: Even in times of uncertainty and restrictions, there are adventures waiting to be experienced. Their account is an inspiration, showing that with the right spirit and the right equipment, represented by Drakensberg's quality products, even the wildest dreams can become reality.

Be inspired by this story and explore the world with DRAKENSBERG . Because each of our products carries the spirit of the adventures waiting to be discovered. Follow in the footsteps of Annika and Mathias and experience your own unforgettable journey.