dark tourism 2023

How 'dark tourism' can pass on the lessons of past tragedies

Solar panels in Namie, Fukushima prefecture, which was severely affected by the 2011 nuclear power plant accident. Image: Unsplash/Rei Yamazaki

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'Dark tourism' is a new kind of travel experience seeking to impart lessons from past tragedies.
Tours in Japan's Tohoku region reflect on the devastation and recovery from the 2011 earthquake.
Creating unique social and cultural value for the affected region, dark tourism has economic benefits too.

Twelve years have passed since the Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami struck on 11 March 2011, causing devastation, mainly in the Tohoku region. In the areas that suffered tremendous damage, tourism promotion is seeking to pass on the memories of the disaster and to use them as lessons in the process of reconstruction.

Dark tourism , journeys through people's memories of wars, natural disasters and other catastrophes, is attracting attention around the world as a new type of travel experience. It was first proposed in the UK in the 1990s and rapidly spread throughout Europe.

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The Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in Poland is the most famous dark tourism spot; the concept has been justified by the idea that the horrors of Nazism in World War Two must never be repeated. Dark tourism has spread rapidly in the United States since the 2001 terrorist attacks.

The value of dark tourism

Associate Professor Akira Ide of Kanazawa University, who has pioneered the study of the phenomenon in Japan and introduced the concept domestically, emphasizes that dark tourism has many possibilities, such as passing on lessons learned, reconsidering ways of life, and reflecting on the modern era. He elaborates that the preservation of historical remains and the existence of storytellers help to connect to memories of past tragedies, and that it is important to support them economically through tourism and to connect the lessons of the past to the future. The dark tourism methodology can be a means of creating value that is unique to a particular region, in doing so developing a completely different kind of tourism.

Touring Japan's disaster zones

There are 25 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Japan, including the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, one of the most famous dark tourism destinations. However, it is distinguished from the others in that it is "negative world heritage" that conveys the tragic consequences of war and has been constructed to prevent such tragedies from happening again. In 2019, before the spread of COVID-19, a record 1.76 million tourists visited Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, located on the same site as the Atomic Bomb Dome.

Following the example of Hiroshima, dark tourism is flourishing in the Tohoku region. In 2022, a record 1.15 million visitors have visited the earthquake and tsunami memorial museums and other facilities in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures affected by the 2011 disaster. The number of visitors, which had been declining due to the spread of COVID-19, has recovered significantly, driven by the growing trend to incorporate learning about the earthquake disaster into tourism and the increase in the number of disaster memorial sites.

In Sendai City, Miyagi prefecture, 25 taxi companies in the city provide a storyteller taxi tour in which the drivers double as a guide to disaster-stricken areas. Certified drivers trained by the non-profit Recovery Assistance Center of Miyagi, they also advise visitors on disaster mitigation, saying: “We want people to be aware of the threat of tsunami so be well-prepared in case of an emergency.”

'Hope tourism' in Fukushima

Fukushima Prefecture, where the earthquake and tsunami caused a nuclear power plant accident, prefers to emphasize " hope tourism ", instead of dark tourism, focusing not only on recollecting the disaster but also on people who have risen again and are making strides in recovery. It is putting efforts into activities that pass on the lessons of the disaster and promote tourism.

Hope Tourism is a group tour that Fukushima Prefecture launched seven years ago, with a record 15,000 participants in 2022. The tour package includes visits to facilities such as the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum in Futaba; an elementary school in Namie, the prefecture's only earthquake memorial ruin; and the Fukushima Robot Test Field in Minamisoma, as well as dialogue and interaction with local residents, workshops, and more.

Lessons of the past

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Great Kanto earthquake , and with a 70% probability of a major quake occurring along the Nankai Trough within the next 30 years, people in Japan are becoming more and more concerned about disaster prevention.

In 2005, the World Economic Forum helped to establish the Logistics Emergency Teams (LET) , a network of representatives from four of the world’s largest logistics and transport companies (Agility, DP World, Maersk and UPS) who work together in partnership with the World Food Programme-led Global Logistics Cluster to deliver free humanitarian assistance.

To date, the LET has responded to more than 20 large-scale natural disasters and humanitarian crises, providing critical logistical support for hurricane victims in Haiti, Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, tsunami victims in Indonesia, civilians in war-ravaged Yemen and many more.

In 2018, 1,943 employees of LET member companies were trained in humanitarian logistics, contingency operations and disaster response to ensure that they were better prepared for future crises.

Read more about how the LET initiative continues to be an exemplary model for public-private partnerships.

Contact us if you're interested in getting involved in impactful initiatives as a member or partner of the World Economic Forum.

Inheriting the memory of past tragedies via dark tourism helps prepare for the future and can bring economic benefits too. With the Japanese government now significantly easing COVID-19 guidelines on mask-wearing, the resulting increase in tourism should help boost this new type of travel experience that has the potential to turn human misery into positive life lessons.

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Beaches? Cruises? ‘Dark’ Tourists Prefer the Gloomy and Macabre

Travelers who use their off time to visit places like the Chernobyl nuclear plant or current conflict zones say they no longer want a sanitized version of a troubled world.

A dark forest with broken branches over moss on its floor and bare, unhealthy-looking trees in the foreground. Trees in the background have more leaves.

By Maria Cramer

North Korea. East Timor. Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountainous enclave that for decades has been a tinderbox for ethnic conflict between Armenians and Azerbaijanis.

They’re not your typical top tourist destinations.

But don’t tell that to Erik Faarlund, the editor of a photography website from Norway, who has visited all three. His next “dream” trip is to tour San Fernando in the Philippines around Easter , when people volunteer to be nailed to a cross to commemorate the suffering of Jesus Christ, a practice discouraged by the Catholic Church.

Mr. Faarlund, whose wife prefers sunning on Mediterranean beaches, said he often travels alone.

“She wonders why on earth I want to go to these places, and I wonder why on earth she goes to the places she goes to,” he said.

Mr. Faarlund, 52, has visited places that fall under a category of travel known as dark tourism , an all-encompassing term that boils down to visiting places associated with death, tragedy and the macabre.

As travel opens up, most people are using their vacation time for the typical goals: to escape reality, relax and recharge. Not so dark tourists, who use their vacation time to plunge deeper into the bleak, even violent corners of the world.

They say going to abandoned nuclear plants or countries where genocides took place is a way to understand the harsh realities of current political turmoil, climate calamities, war and the growing threat of authoritarianism.

“When the whole world is on fire and flooded and no one can afford their energy bills, lying on a beach at a five-star resort feels embarrassing,” said Jodie Joyce, who handles contracts for a genome sequencing company in England and has visited Chernobyl and North Korea .

Mr. Faarlund, who does not see his travels as dark tourism, said he wants to visit places “that function totally differently from the way things are run at home.”

Whatever their motivations, Mr. Faarlund and Ms. Joyce are hardly alone.

Eighty-two percent of American travelers said they have visited at least one dark tourism destination in their lifetime, according to a study published in September by Passport-photo.online, which surveyed more than 900 people. More than half of those surveyed said they preferred visiting “active” or former war zones. About 30 percent said that once the war in Ukraine ends, they wanted to visit the Azovstal steel plant, where Ukrainian soldiers resisted Russian forces for months .

The growing popularity of dark tourism suggests more and more people are resisting vacations that promise escapism, choosing instead to witness firsthand the sites of suffering they have only read about, said Gareth Johnson, a founder of Young Pioneer Tours , which organized trips for Ms. Joyce and Mr. Faarlund.

Tourists, he said, are tired of “getting a sanitized version of the world.”

A pastime that goes back to Gladiator Days

The term “dark tourism” was coined in 1996, by two academics from Scotland, J. John Lennon and Malcolm Foley, who wrote “Dark Tourism: The Attraction to Death and Disaster.”

But people have used their leisure time to witness horror for hundreds of years, said Craig Wight, associate professor of tourism management at Edinburgh Napier University.

“It goes back to the gladiator battles” of ancient Rome, he said. “People coming to watch public hangings. You had tourists sitting comfortably in carriages watching the Battle of Waterloo.”

Professor Wight said the modern dark tourist usually goes to a site defined by tragedy to make a connection to the place, a feeling that is difficult to achieve by just reading about it.

By that definition, anyone can be a dark tourist. A tourist who takes a weekend trip to New York City may visit Ground Zero. Visitors to Boston may drive north to Salem to learn more about the persecution of people accused of witchcraft in the 17th century. Travelers to Germany or Poland might visit a concentration camp. They might have any number of motivations, from honoring victims of genocide to getting a better understanding of history. But in general, a dark tourist is someone who makes a habit of seeking out places that are either tragic, morbid or even dangerous, whether the destinations are local or as far away as Chernobyl.

In recent years, as tour operators have sprung up worldwide promising deep dives into places known for recent tragedy, media attention has followed and so have questions about the intentions of visitors, said Dorina-Maria Buda, a professor of tourism studies at Nottingham Trent University .

Stories of people gawking at neighborhoods in New Orleans destroyed by Hurricane Katrina or posing for selfies at Dachau led to disgust and outrage .

Were people driven to visit these sites out of a “sense of voyeurism or is it a sense of sharing in the pain and showing support?” Professor Buda said.

Most dark tourists are not voyeurs who pose for photos at Auschwitz, said Sian Staudinger, who runs the Austria-based Dark Tourist Trips , which organizes itineraries in the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe and instructs travelers to follow rules like “NO SELFIES!”

“Dark tourists in general ask meaningful questions,” Ms. Staudinger said. “They don’t talk too loud. They don’t laugh. They’re not taking photos at a concentration camp.”

‘Ethically murky territory’

David Farrier , a journalist from New Zealand, spent a year documenting travels to places like Aokigahara , the so-called suicide forest in Japan, the luxury prison Pablo Escobar built for himself in Colombia and McKamey Manor in Tennessee, a notorious haunted house tour where people sign up to be buried alive, submerged in cold water until they feel like they will drown and beaten.

The journey was turned into a show, “Dark Tourist,” that streamed on Netflix in 2018 and was derided by some critics as ghoulish and “sordid.”

Mr. Farrier, 39, said he often questioned the moral implications of his trips.

“It’s very ethically murky territory,” Mr. Farrier said.

But it felt worthwhile to “roll the cameras” on places and rituals that most people want to know about but will never experience, he said.

Visiting places where terrible events unfolded was humbling and helped him confront his fear of death.

He said he felt privileged to have visited most of the places he saw, except McKamey Manor.

“That was deranged,” Mr. Farrier said.

Professor Buda said dark tourists she has interviewed have described feelings of shock and fear at seeing armed soldiers on streets of countries where there is ongoing conflict or that are run by dictatorships.

“When you’re part of a society that is by and large stable and you’ve gotten into an established routine, travel to these places leads you to sort of feel alive,” she said.

But that travel can present real danger.

In 2015, Otto Warmbier , a 21-year-old student from Ohio who traveled with Young Pioneer Tours, was arrested in North Korea after he was accused of stealing a poster off a hotel wall. He was detained for 17 months and was comatose when he was released. He died in 2017, six days after he was brought back to the United States.

The North Korean government said Mr. Warmbier died of botulism but his family said his brain was damaged after he was tortured.

Americans can no longer travel to North Korea unless their passports are validated by the State Department.

A chance to reflect

Even ghost tours — the lighter side of dark tourism — can present dilemmas for tour operators, said Andrea Janes, the owner and founder of Boroughs of the Dead: Macabre New York City Walking Tours.

In 2021, she and her staff questioned whether to restart tours so soon after the pandemic in a city where refrigerated trucks serving as makeshift morgues sat in a marine terminal for months.

They reopened and were surprised when tours booked up fast. People were particularly eager to hear the ghost stories of Roosevelt Island, the site of a shuttered 19th-century hospital where smallpox patients were treated .

“We should have seen as historians that people would want to talk about death in a time of plague,” Ms. Janes said.

Kathy Biehl, who lives in Jefferson Township, N.J., and has gone on a dozen ghost tours with Ms. Janes’s company, recalled taking the tour “Ghosts of the Titanic” along the Hudson River. It was around 2017, when headlines were dominated by President Trump’s tough stance on refugees and immigrants coming into the United States.

Those stories seemed to dovetail with the 100-year-old tales of immigrants trying to make it to New York on a doomed ship, Ms. Biehl said.

It led to “a catharsis” for many on the tour, she said. “People were on the verge of tears over immigration.”

Part of the appeal of dark tourism is its ability to help people process what is happening “as the world gets darker and gloomier,” said Jeffrey S. Podoshen , a professor of marketing at Franklin and Marshall College, who specializes in dark tourism.

“People are trying to understand dark things, trying to understand things like the realities of death, dying and violence,” he said. “They look at this type of tourism as a way to prepare themselves.”

Mr. Faarlund, the photo editor, recalled one trip with his wife and twin sons: a private tour of Cambodia that included a visit to the Killing Fields , where between 1975 and 1979 more than 2 million Cambodians were killed or died of starvation and disease under the Khmer Rouge regime.

His boys, then 14, listened intently to unsparing and brutal stories of the torture center run by the Khmer Rouge. At one point, the boys had to go outside, where they sat quietly for a long time.

“They needed a break,” Mr. Faarlund said. “It was quite mature of them.”

Afterward, they met two of the survivors of the Khmer Rouge, fragile men in their 80s and 90s. The teenagers asked if they could hug them and the men obliged, Mr. Faarlund said.

It was a moving trip that also included visits to temples, among them Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, and meals of frog, oysters and squid at a roadside restaurant.

“They loved it,” Mr. Faarlund said of his family.

Still, he can’t see them coming with him to see people re-enact the crucifixion in the Philippines.

“I don’t think they want to go with me on that one,” Mr. Faarlund said.

52 Places for a Changed World

The 2022 list highlights places around the globe where travelers can be part of the solution.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

Maria Cramer is a reporter on the Travel desk. Please send her tips, questions and complaints about traveling, especially on cruises. More about Maria Cramer

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places: Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai: Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto: The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland: The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas: Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

A participant in the Whitby Goth Weekend wearing an ornate costume.

Gothic getaways: the rise and evolution of ‘dark tourism’ festivals

PhD candidate and co-owner of Desmond Tours, Technological University of the Shannon

Disclosure statement

Luisa Golz does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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That Halloween is a commercial event is a platitude akin to saying that the sky is blue, or that chocolates are widely eaten on Valentines Day. Mention October 31st and the mind instantly fills with images of trick-or-treating and the inevitable paraphernalia of pumpkins, polyester cobwebs, and witch hats. Despite its superficiality today, the origins of Halloween can be traced back to the Celts and their Samhain celebrations, which marked the end of the autumn harvest and the beginning of winter. It was also a day when, according to Celtic beliefs, the veil between the living and the dead is particularly permeable.

Mexico’s el Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is another tradition with deep roots, possibly combining pre-Colombian rites and European celebrations such as All Saints Day. In Asia, Ghost Festivals, part of both Taoist and Buddhist traditions, are when people pay tribute to their deceased ancestors, who are believed to be able to return briefly from the afterlife.

A more recent addition to the “spooky” calendar of events are Gothic festivals, which could be considered a form of “dark tourism”. The name comes from the inspiration they take from Gothic literature, which has its roots in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Notable authors included Mary Shelly, Walter Scott, Edgar Allen Poe, and especially Bram Stoker, whose classic Dracula was published in 1897. Common themes included monsters, murders, and mysteries, with an undercurrent of dread and fear.

Dracula rising

One of the better known “dark tourism” festivals is the Whitby Goth Weekend , which takes place in the Yorkshire town where Stoker spent his holidays and from which he drew inspiration for Dracula . In the novel, Stoker gives a detailed account of the town’s layout, architecture and spooky atmosphere. Since the mid-1990s the bi-annual event attracts participants from a range of subcultures as well as mainstream visitors. Many of the “new” participants do not necessarily identify as “Goth”. Instead, some simply observe the spectacle, others come to celebrate Halloween and many belong to the “Steampunk” subculture .

Attendees of the Whitby Goth Weekend, some costumed.

Stoker’s life and work are also celebrated in Dublin, the city where he was born in 1847. The Bram Stoker Festival is a playful celebration of his most famous literary creation. It includes the family-friendly theme park “Stokerland” , literary walking tours, and lectures about his life and legacy. The festival attracts everyone from families looking to entertain their children over the Halloween weekend to Gothic fiction enthusiasts.

While firm numbers are hard to come by, the popularity of these and other Gothic festivals appears to be growing. At the Bram Stoker Festival, attendance increased from approximately 25,000 in 2019 to more than 49,000 in 2022, recovering from a two-year hiatus over the Covid-19 pandemic. This cuts against the common belief that such events only attract niche audiences, members of a particular subculture, or those with an interest in Gothic fiction or literature.

When participation becomes co-creation

At the Whitby Goth Weekend, the boundary between spectator and participant becomes particularly permeable. Many are there for the alternative music events, shopping at the local markets, or socialising. Others take it to the next step, dress up in highly creative outfits, parading through Whitby’s cobbled streets, and retracing the imagined footsteps of Dracula.

These attendees become part of the spectacle, as many of those who visit come to marvel at the costumed creatures in Whitby’s Gothic atmosphere. This intersection of participation and observation draws in many photographers when the festival takes place in April and October. Participants pose for photos, while others actively perform in this staged environment.

Tents at the Stokerland event in Dublin, Ireland.

As a result, the dressed-up participants do not simply experience the festival as passive attendees, they become a festival attraction themselves, co-creating the festival experience. Some simply enjoy the performance aspects, while others use them to express what they see as their “true” identities. Festival organisers and local businesses enable this experience, which takes place within the town’s music venues, retail spots and hospitality spaces.

Selling darkness

What makes such events that are initially appealing to a niche audience become more popular among wider audiences? While some may remind us of long-standing traditions, as is the case of the Celtic celebration Samhain, others show clear signs of commodification.

As Gothic festival content can be co-created, so too is the marketing. With smartphones in every hand, festival-goers capture immense amounts of visual material, which they then show on social media. In this way, they spread the word about Gothic festivals, and in turn traditional media outlets can pick up the trend.

Thus participant’s online word-of-mouth recommendations work hand-in-hand with traditional forms of advertising. Together, they become an integral part of the “commodification of darkness”, making them an under-recognised component of festival marketing.

Dark tourism destinations

Ready for a spooky escape? Here are five personal recommendations for the ultimate Gothic getaway.

Whitby Goth Weekend , Whitby, United Kingdom, October 27-29.

Bram Stoker Festival , Dublin, Ireland, including Stokerland , 28-30 October.

Salem Festival of the Dead , Massachusetts, United States; the month of October.

Derry Halloween Festival , Derry, Northern Ireland, Oct 28-31.

Wave Gotik Treffen , Leipzig, Germany, May 26-29, 2024.

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Environmental disasters and ‘dark’ tourism: The modern-day ghost towns created by the climate crisis

Originally Published: 31 OCT 23 05:10 ET Updated: 31 OCT 23 10:14 ET By Elissa Garay, CNN

(CNN) — Think of “ghost towns” and images of dusty, lost-to-time towns, like those in America’s Wild West, may come to mind.

Indeed, in the second half of the 19th century, a slew of boomtown-gone-bust mining towns were deserted by residents as natural resources and economic viability dried up. Over time, some of these relics have found new life as fun and kitschy tourist attractions.

And while iterations of such abandoned settlements are found on every continent, with varying manmade and natural causes to blame, a new era of ghost towns is now emerging that, while eerie, feels far off from good touristic fun.

Climate change and ensuing environmental disasters – marked by an increasing frequency and intensity of destructive floods, droughts, storms, wildfires and extreme temperatures – are now fueling what experts say are just the first waves of places abandoned due to climate displacement.

“We are going to see a movement – it’s already happening – where people are moving away from these areas that are most impacted by storms, by rising sea levels and floods, but also by constant fire, smoke inhalation – all of that,” says Gaia Vince, author of “ Nomad Century: How Climate Migration Will Reshape Our World .”

She cites recent examples like wildfires in Hawaii, California and Australia, and floods in Bangladesh, as some of the latest triggers for population displacements.

“How many people are going to return to Lahaina in Hawaii after the fires there?” she questions. “I don’t think it’ll be 100% of the population that left. Some people will not be able to.”

Abandoning a settlement is typically a last-resort scenario, made only once residents have exhausted all other options, say experts.

In some instances, resettlements have been aided or forced in “managed retreats” or “planned relocations,” in which financial and logistical support is provided by government agencies. Jack DeWaard , scientific director at international nongovernmental organization the Population Council, and an expert on climate and environmental migration and displacement, notes that this involves government entities “working collectively with communities to relocate them entirely.”

For the displaced, “the costs of migration, economically and psychologically, are substantial,” he says.

“They’re forced to leave their traditions, their network of family and friends, their ancestors’ graves, their language, all of that, because it’s become unlivable. That is very traumatic, it’s very difficult,” adds Vince.

More than 20 million people are forced to leave their homes due to extreme weather events each year, according to the United Nations . Researchers have projected that by the end of the century, somewhere in the range of 3 to 6 billion people will be “left outside the ‘human climate niche’” that best supports life.

“It doesn’t mean that 3 to 6 billion people will have to move, but it does mean a lot of people have to move,” Vince notes. This, she says, will disproportionality affect communities of color and/or those who are already facing poverty.

“Typically, migration and displacement, these are processes that are rooted in inequality,” explains DeWaard, who adds that the climate crisis is only “going to exacerbate the existing inequalities of today.”

‘An inherent fascination with ruination’

Through the lens of tourism, many areas that have been historically reliant on tourism economies will also be vulnerable to abandonment says Vince. She cites examples like Alpine ski resorts, where snowfall is no longer conducive to skiing, or traditional holiday spots like Spain and the Mediterranean that have been experiencing deadly heatwaves and wildfires.

“Tourists are going to choose other places,” she says. “They don’t want to sit in a heatwave, with having to be evacuated because of forest fires.”

But there is also a niche segment of so-called “dark tourism” that could arise around such climate change-born ghost towns.

“There is an inherent fascination with ruination, where ruins of the past often tell a story of our misdeeds and misfortunes,” explains Philip Stone of the University of Central Lancashire, where he runs the Institute for Dark Tourism Research . “Climate change will undoubtedly cause death of landscapes where we shall mourn our environmental decline.”

While the pursuit of dark tourism, which the Institute defines as “tourist sites of death, disaster, or the seemingly macabre,” can raise ethical questions, Stone ventures to say that such touristic curiosity can actually be beneficial.

“The visual impact of climate change-induced landscapes serves as a warning of our industrialization,” he says. “Visiting such places now can shine a critical light on the effects of climate change and, in so doing, offer educational experiences to the contemporary visitor.”

Here are five global ghost towns that have been created as climate change reshapes the world – the likely harbingers of many more to come. (Note that in some of these destinations, some holdout townsfolk still remain.)

Vunidogoloa, Fiji

The South Pacific island nation of Fiji is particularly vulnerable to the climate change effects of rising sea levels and intensifying cyclones.

Dozens of coastal communities in Fiji have been earmarked for planned relocations to higher ground by the Fijian government, as their underwater fates loom ever nearer.

The small seaside village of Vunidogoloa, on Vanua Levu, the country’s second-biggest island, was the first of the bunch to be relocated, to a lush inland hillside, in 2014.

Today, remnants of the original dilapidated village, now overrun with vegetation, are all that remain on the old site where some 150 people once lived.

Isle de Jean Charles, Louisiana

Communities along coastal Louisiana have been particularly devastated by climate change’s sea level rise, coastal erosion and battering storms and hurricanes.

Isle de Jean Charles , an island in the Gulf of Mexico about 80 miles (129 kilometers) south of New Orleans, once spanned 22,000 acres. But today, only 320 acres of the sinking island remain.

The local community, where residents claimed Native American ancestry, was awarded a government grant, affording them funding to develop a newly established settlement dubbed “The New Isle,” set about 40 miles north of the island, on higher ground.

As of October 2023, all but four of Isle de Jean Charles’s original families have relocated there.

Cotul Morii, Moldova

Among the most climate change-vulnerable countries in Europe , Moldova faces ongoing climate risks like heatwaves, storms, droughts, and, most especially, floods, having recorded three major flooding events in the last 20 years.

The impacts of such flooding in the heavily agricultural nation have led to widespread destruction and expense, with some villages deemed damaged beyond repair. One such settlement was Cotul Morii, a village on the banks of the Prut River that was submerged by catastrophic flooding in 2010.

Rather than rebuild, the government mandated that a new Cotul Morii village be reconstructed about nine miles away.

Chacaltaya Ski Resort, Bolivia

Once the world’s highest ski resort, the 17,388-foot-high lodge on Mount Chacaltaya opened in the 1930s as a popular – and only – ski resort in Bolivia’s Andes.

For decades, the mountaintop resort, just north of La Paz, welcomed skiers and sledders in the winter months to crisscross its snowy pistes, until shuttering in 2009.

That was the same year the mountain’s 18,000-year-old Chacaltaya glacier completely melted away due to climate change – with much of the snow disappearing along with it.

Today, the one-time resort, with its abandoned café, bar, and ski lifts, stands in testimony to what was.

Valmeyer, Illinois

Climate change has been linked to more volatile cycles of droughts and flooding along the Mississippi River, North America’s longest river.

When the Mississippi’s Great Flood of 1993 inundated the small Illinois town of Valmeyer, damaging the majority of its buildings, town residents – with government funding to back them – decided to reconstruct the 900-person town on a neighboring bluff.

While the flood event itself perhaps predates climate change, 30 years later, the new town of Valmeyer is considered to be a textbook case for how town relocations for climate resilience might be successfully conducted today.

Today, the new Valmeyer is thriving; the old town, set within a natural floodplain, is primarily used for farming and recreation.

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Dark Tourism Market

Dark Tourism Market Analysis by Phone Booking, Online Booking, and In Person Booking from 2024 to 2034

Discovering Unexplored Territories where Tragic Histories Meet Historical Fiction. Find the point when human pain and flexibility converge with history

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Dark Tourism Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

The dark tourism market is expected to be valued at US$ 31.89 billion in 2024. The dark tourism is predicted to rise at a sluggish CAGR of 2.5% from 2024 to 2034. The global market is anticipated to reach US$ 40.82 billion by 2034.

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Key Trends and Highlights

Popularization through documentaries, movies, and television shows depict dark tourism destinations.
Percepting dark tourism to learn about history, human behavior, and socio-political issues.
Management of visitor safety and respect for sensitive locations to prevent exploitation or disrespect.

2019 to 2023 Historical Analysis vs. 2024 to 2034 Market Forecast Projections

From 2019 to 2023, the high clear film market presented a historical CAGR of 2.1%. The growth was attributed to a boom in demand across various industries, technological advancements, and a surge in awareness of the benefits of high-clear films.

Stepping ahead to the forecasted period from 2024 to 2034, the market is estimated to experience a slightly higher CAGR of 2.5%. The growth projection reflected anticipated factors like continued innovation in high-clear film technology, expansion in applications in emerging industries, and growth in global demand for high-quality packaging and display solutions.

The forecasted CAGR demonstrates a positive outlook for the high clear film market, suggesting sustained growth over the coming decade. Market players remain vigilant to evolving consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and technological developments to capitalize on opportunities and overcome potential challenges in the dynamic market landscape.

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Dark Tourism Market Drivers

Dark tourism is driven by the attraction of visiting sites with historical significance, which includes locations dealing with tragedy, disaster, or macabre events. Visitors enjoy visiting these sites out of curiosity, a desire for knowledge, or to pay respects to the past.
The inherent human curiosity about death, sufferance, and the darker aspects of history fuels the demand for dark tourism. Many individuals are fascinated by the opportunity to explore taboo topics and confront uncomfortable realities.
Popular culture, like movies, documentaries, and books, significantly drives importance in dark tourism destinations. Media portrayals generally romanticize or sensationalize these sites, leading to a rise in visitor curiosity and demand.

Dark Tourism Market Challenges

Dark tourism promotes ethical questions about exploitation, surveillance, and the commodification of tragedy. The ongoing debate continues to go on about the appropriate ways for memorializing and interpreting sensitive historical events while paying respect to the victims and their descendants.
Visiting dark tourism sites can be emotionally challenging and culturally sensitive as it poses a significant challenge for tourists and site managers to balance the need for knowledge, understanding, and respect for the local people and survivors of past events.
Certain locations for dark tourism are situated in areas vulnerable to environmental changes. A boom in visitor numbers can damage habitats, deteriorate environmental conditions, and create disturbance in regional ecosystems.

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Comparative View of Adjacent Markets

Future Market Insights has compared three markets, namely the travel agency services market and travel advertising sector market are below. Growing focus on customization and personalization propels the market for travel agency services.

Travel advertisers mainly concentrate on digital marketing methods due to the growth in popularity of online booking channels.

Dark Tourism Market:

Travel Agency Services Market:

Travel Advertising Market:

Country-wise Analysis

The table showcases the top five countries ranked by revenue, with India holding the top position.

India is considerably leading dark tourism, thanks to its diverse range of historical and cultural landscapes, which include places like Cellular Jail and Jallianwala Bagh.

Such locations draw domestic and foreign visitors eager to learn more about complex past and rich cultural legacy of India. They also offer insights into social movements, independence struggles, and colonial history.

Historical Exploration Surges the United States Market

Dark tourism in the United States is chiefly utilized for historical exploration, with sites such as Alcatraz Island and Ground Zero that offer insights into significant events like incarceration and the September 11 attacks.

Canada Focuses on Exploration of National Narratives

The dark tourism market mainly focuses on the exploration of its own historical narratives, with sites like the Halifax Explosion Memorial and the Museums in Canada for Human Rights that delve into experiences with tragedy, conflict, and social justice.

Market Growth in Singapore Reflects on Complex History

Dark tourism in Singapore reflects the complex history of the country, with sites like Changi Museum and the Old Ford Factory offering information into wartime experiences and struggles for independence.

Cultural Heritage Exploration Booms China Market

The market promotes exploring its rich cultural heritage and historical events, with sites like the Nanjing Massacre Memorial and the Great Wall fascinating visitors interested in understanding the violent past of the country.

Exploration of Diverse Landscapes Drives India Market Growth

The market for dark tourism is centered on discovering its many historical and cultural landscapes; locations like the Cellular Jail National Memorial and Jallianwala Bagh offer insights into social movements, colonial history, and the fight for independence.

Category-wise Insights

The below section shows the leading segment. Based on type, the holocaust segment is accounted to hold a market share of 28.6% in 2024. Based on the book channel, the online booking segment is anticipated to account for a market share of 39.2% in 2024.

The enormous historical relevance and educational value propels the dark tourism industry under the holocaust segment. The ease of use and accessibility for internet booking provides the travelers to drive the market.

Holocaust Segment to Hold a Significant Share in the Market

Based on type, the holocaust segment holds a significant market share of 28.6% based on the dark tourism sites visited.

The segment reflects the interest in sites related to the Holocaust, such as Auschwitz-Birkenau and Yad Vashem, where visitors pay massive respect to victims and learn about the enormity of World War II.

Online Booking Segment to Hold a Dominant Share in the Market

The online booking segment is expected to dominate the booking channel, accounting for a market share of 39.2% in 2024.

The growing preference for convenience and flexibility among dark tourism visitors, thus augmenting to rely on online platforms to book tours, tickets, and accommodations for their visits to historical and culturally significant sites.

Competitive Landscape

Many travel agencies, tour operators, and destination management businesses compete for market share in the highly competitive dark tourism industry. Local operators in well-known dark tourism locations further compete for market share when offering guided tours, interpreting services, and tourist facilities.

Strategic alliances are created for marketing techniques and provide high-quality service offerings essential to remaining competitive in this fast-paced market, where satisfying visitor expectations for authenticity, sensitivity, and educational value is henceforth crucial.

Some of the key developments

In 2022, Lupine Travel Company specialized in organizing tours to destinations considered off the beaten path, including areas associated with conflict, disaster, and historical significance. The offerings provide unique insights into lesser-known regions and events that cater to adventurous travelers seeking educational experiences.
In 2022, Chornobyl Tours' emphasized guided tours of the Ukrainian Chornobyl Exclusion Zone. Chornobyl Tours provided guests with an up-close and personal glimpse at the legacy of the 1986 nuclear accident. It was skilled in negotiating the challenges of entering this extremely restricted location.

Key Coverage of Dark Tourism Market Report

Adjacent Study on Dark Tourism Market
Dark Tourism Market Size, Current Insights, and Demographic Trends
Dark Tourism Market Revenue & Trends
Opportunities of Dark Tourism Market
North America Dark Tourism Market

Report Scope

Dark tourism market - key segments.

Holocaust Tourism
Genocide Tourism
Paranormal Tourism
Battlefield Tourism
Nuclear Tourism

By Booking Channel:

Phone Booking
Online Booking
In Person Booking

By Tourist Type:

Domestic Tourist
International Tourist

By Tour Type:

Independent Traveler
Package Traveller

By Age Group:

15-25 Years
26-35 Years
36-45 Years
46-55 Years
56-65 Years
66-75 Years
More Than 75 Years
North America
Latin America
Western Europe
Eastern Europe
South Asia and Pacific
The Middle East and Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expected worth of the dark tourism market in 2024.

As of 2024, the market for dark tourism is expected to be valued at US$ 31.89 billion.

What is the anticipated market value for dark tourism in 2034?

By 2034, the market value of dark tourism is expected to reach US$ 40.82 billion.

What is the projected forecast CAGR for the dark tourism market from 2024 to 2034?

From 2024 to 2034, the dark tourism market is expected to flourish at a CAGR of 2.5%

Based on type, which segment dominates the dark tourism market?

The holocaust segment is accounted to hold a market share of 28.6% in 2024.

Which country is likely to dominate the dark tourism market?

India is likely the top-performing market, with a CAGR of 5.1%.

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A Traveler's Guide to Dark Tourism

Exploring the world's dark & unusual travel destinations.

Spac Prison: Albania’s Dark Tourism Destination Reveals a Haunting History

Nestled within the picturesque mountains of Albania, SPAÇ Prison stands as a chilling reminder of the country’s tumultuous past. Once a site of political imprisonment and human suffering, this haunting location has become a dark tourism destination, attracting visitors prepared … Read More

Visiting Hartheim Castle Memorial Site (Austria)

As far as dark tourist destinations are concerned, there’s few more harrowing than Hartheim Castle. During WWII it was a Euthanasia Centre, a secret Nazi killing facility, and part of the Aktion T4 program. Here, German citizens tagged as mentally … Read More

Yerevan_Tsitsernakaberd_Armenian_Genocide_Museum_Memorial_msu-2018-3008

Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial & Museum (Yerevan)

For dark tourists in Yerevan, a trip to Tsitsernakaberd is a must. The Memorial and Armenian Genocide Museum provide a powerful insight into the country and its culture and of the darkest period in the nations’ relatively recent history. The … Read More

Visiting Cellular Jail, Port Blair – All You Need to Know

Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands has a dark and significant history. During the many years of British rule, prisoners were forced into exile in this remote location. Known as the Kala Pani (Black Water in Hindi), Indian freedom fighters … Read More

Masada, Israel – 1st Century Fortress and Site of a Mass Jewish Suicide

“Masada shall not fall again.” The oath that soldiers take when inducted into the Israeli Defence Forces ends with this line. It is connected to a siege that took place almost 2000 years ago. The 1st-century fortress at Masada was … Read More

KGB Cells Museum – Tartu, Estonia

In the center of the Estonian city of Tartu stands an unassuming building that once held a dark secret. During the first Soviet occupation of the country between 1940 and 1954, the basement was home to the KGB. Operating covertly … Read More

Riverside_Hospital_North_Brother_Island_crop

North Brother Island – Abandoned Quarantine Facility in New York

North Brother Island, located on the East River between the Bronx and Riker’s Island in New York, is a place with a dark history. Not only is the island home to the worst loss of life in New York’s history … Read More

Ruddock, Louisiana – Entire Town Destroyed by Hurricane

At the turn of the 20th century, Ruddock in Louisiana was a bustling community, located on an isthmus between Lake Maurepas and Lake Pontchartrain, the town was connected by the railroads with a train coming through daily. At the height … Read More

Vorkuta – Russia’s Dying City Above the Arctic Circle

Just over 90 miles north of the Arctic Circle and 40 hours by train from Moscow, sits the once-bustling coal-mining city of Vorkuta, Russia. Built by gulag inmates during Stalin’s big purge in the 1930s, this desolate region on the … Read More

Fleury-devant-douaumont – A Village that Died for France

During World War One, Fleury-devant-douaumont became known as one of the villages that died for France. Caught in the midst of The Battle of Verdun, (one of the longest and fiercest artillery battles of the Great War), French and German … Read More

Reggane and In Ekker – French Nuclear Test Sites, Algeria

Reggane and In Ekker were once nuclear test sites in Algeria. It was here that the French experimented with their atomic arsenal in the 1960s. Thirteen underground nuclear detonations were carried out at the In Ekker site. The reckless nature … Read More

Kadykchan – Abandoned Soviet Mining Town

Kadykchan is located at the eastern extremity of Russia in the Kolyma region of Siberia, an area renowned for the harshness of the climate. This part of Siberia is known for something else too, the devastating brutality of its Gulags. … Read More

colorado-usa-ghost-town-rocky-mountains-old-west-history-saint-elmo

Inside Saint Elmo, Colorado’s Best Preserved Ghost Town

St. Elmo, is currently the best-preserved ghost town in Colorado. This former gold mining camp in Chaffee County lies in the heart of the Sawatch Range. The entire district was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, … Read More

A Trip to Tinian Island – WWII Relics in the Pacific

Despite its remote location in the Pacific, Tinian is slowly becoming more popular with tourists, especially dark ones that are interested in Pacific WWII History. There are a number of reasons why. Not only did the island become one of … Read More

Ex_Villa_Turistica_de_Epecuén._-_panoramio_(2)

The Ruins of Villa Epecuén, Argentina – A Resort Town Submerged

Villa Epecuén was once a bustling tourist town along the shore of Lago Epecuen. The salt lake, some 600 kilometers away from Buenos Aires was a popular holiday spot for many decades in the 20th century. People would flock from … Read More

Visiting Nauru – An Island From Boom To Bust

Nauru has had a troubled history, passed from one empire to the next. As one of the three big “phosphate rocks” of the Pacific, (Banaba in Kiribati and Makatea in French Polynesia being the other two), the island was a … Read More

The Buried Village of Te Wairoa – Dark Tourism in New Zealand

On June 10, 1889, New Zealand’s deadliest volcanic eruption devastated the surrounding landscape and killed over 120 people. The villagers around Mount Tarawera on the on North Island did not stand a chance as boiling mud and hot springs tore … Read More

Port Royal – Sunken Pirate City, Jamaica

Port Royal, Jamaica was once known as “the most wicked and sinful city in the world”. Founded in 1494 by the Spanish, the enclave positioned on the mouth of what is now called Kingston Harbour, was the center of shipping … Read More

Bunker Valentin, Bremen – Nazi U-Boat Facility

Bunker Valentin was the largest fortified U-boat facility in Germany during WWII. Built to produce submarines on a grand scale for the Nazi war effort, more than 10,000 forced laborers were used in the construction of this gigantic bunker, support … Read More

Chagan Nuclear Tests, Crater Lake & Ghost Town – Kazakhstan

During the Cold War, the Soviets couldn’t get enough of blowing up nuclear weapons in northeastern Kazakhstan. The tests were not always with the intent to one day nuke the USA, however. Conducted by the military under the banner of … Read More

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Environment | Environmental disasters and ‘dark’ tourism:…

Environment

Transportation

Environment | Environmental disasters and ‘dark’ tourism: The modern-day ghost towns created by the climate crisis

Think of “ghost towns” and images of dusty, lost-to-time towns, like those in America’s Wild West, may come to mind.

She cites recent examples like wildfires in Hawaii, California and Australia, and floods in Bangladesh, as some of the latest triggers for population displacements.

Abandoning a settlement is typically a last-resort scenario, made only once residents have exhausted all other options, say experts.

For the displaced, “the costs of migration, economically and psychologically, are substantial,” he says.

‘An inherent fascination with ruination’

“Tourists are going to choose other places,” she says. “They don’t want to sit in a heatwave, with having to be evacuated because of forest fires.”

But there is also a niche segment of so-called “dark tourism” that could arise around such climate change-born ghost towns.

Vunidogoloa, Fiji

The Fijian town of Vunidogoloa was resettled due to rising sea water levels in 2014.(Christoph Sator/picture alliance/Getty Images)

The South Pacific island nation of Fiji is particularly vulnerable to the climate change effects of rising sea levels and intensifying cyclones.

Dozens of coastal communities in Fiji have been earmarked for planned relocations to higher ground by the Fijian government, as their underwater fates loom ever nearer.

The small seaside village of Vunidogoloa, on Vanua Levu, the country’s second-biggest island, was the first of the bunch to be relocated, to a lush inland hillside, in 2014.

Today, remnants of the original dilapidated village, now overrun with vegetation, are all that remain on the old site where some 150 people once lived.

Isle de Jean Charles, Louisiana

Isle de Jean Charles, in Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, is disappearing due to land loss.(Coco Robicheaux/Alamy Stock Photo via CNN)

Isle de Jean Charles , an island in the Gulf of Mexico about 80 miles (129 kilometers) south of New Orleans, once spanned 22,000 acres. But today, only 320 acres of the sinking island remain.

As of October 2023, all but four of Isle de Jean Charles’s original families have relocated there.

Cotul Morii, Moldova

A view of Cotul Morii village through a barbed wire fence.(ABACA/Shutterstock via CNN)

Rather than rebuild, the government mandated that a new Cotul Morii village be reconstructed about nine miles away.

Chacaltaya Ski Resort, Bolivia

Bolivia's abandoned Chacaltaya Ski Resort closed in 2009.(Luke Chen/iStock Editorial/Getty Images)

Once the world’s highest ski resort, the 17,388-foot-high lodge on Mount Chacaltaya opened in the 1930s as a popular – and only – ski resort in Bolivia’s Andes.

For decades, the mountaintop resort, just north of La Paz, welcomed skiers and sledders in the winter months to crisscross its snowy pistes, until shuttering in 2009.

That was the same year the mountain’s 18,000-year-old Chacaltaya glacier completely melted away due to climate change – with much of the snow disappearing along with it.

Today, the one-time resort, with its abandoned café, bar, and ski lifts, stands in testimony to what was.

Valmeyer, Illinois

Old basketball courts at the abandoned Valmeyer High School. The entire town was moved to higher ground after a 1993 flood.(Mandatory Credit: Kile Brewer/The New York Times/Redux via CNN)

Climate change has been linked to more volatile cycles of droughts and flooding along the Mississippi River, North America’s longest river.

Today, the new Valmeyer is thriving; the old town, set within a natural floodplain, is primarily used for farming and recreation.

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11 Dark Tourism Destinations for 2023

Dark tourism destinations hone in on historical tragedies from all around the globe. This form of tourism can be an emotionally difficult experience and controversial, to say the least. With the dark, there must be light. These same destinations are enlightening and important – they provide insight into the human condition, and teach a powerful lesson to future generations.

I’ve compiled a list of macabre trips that are worth experiencing. The tours can be completed in a few hours or one day, so if you want to find a healthy balance on your next vacation of dark and light, then you’ve got that flexibility.

Additionally, this list is not exhaustive. As you can imagine, death and mayhem have happened for thousands of years (or more), so these tours are a sampling of what is available from ancient to modern times.

What is dark tourism?

For many, “dark tourism” conjures images of death and darkness, and it’s quite the opposite “normal” holiday experience at the beach or theme park. A dark tourism definition is an experience that allows visitors to journey to a present-day destination and learn about mankind’s worst failures, often atrocities against each other. Some examples of dark tourism include, but sadly aren’t limited to, incarceration, genocide, ethnic cleansing, assassination, war, or disaster– be it accidental or natural.

Dark Tourism Destinations

After visiting these macabre destinations, it is unsurprising that visitors may feel differently about human nature and history. These dark tourism destinations are best suited for mature individuals, not for young children, due to their extreme nature.

1. Hiroshima Private Day Tour

Ww2 atomic bomb impact.

This guided tour of Hiroshima takes you through the rich history of Japan, highlighting the events of the last century: the devasting atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War Two by the American armed forces and the subsequent rebuilding of the city.

You’ll visit several memorials, shrines, and the Hiroshima Castle. It’s not all history on this private tour – you’ll experience fantastic street food and markets during your trip.

Hiroshima, Japan

Explore Hiroshima Castle, Peace Memorial Park, and Itsukushima Shrine
English-speaking driver
Private car
Ferry fee included
Entrance fees

Tour Length

2. Cologne: Bergen-Belsen Memorial Guided Private Tour

Former nazi concentration camp.

This small-group private tour with transportation takes you through the atrocious war crimes that occurred during World War Two. You’ll learn about prison life and the tragic fate of millions of Jews and other alienated groups like homosexuals, disabled people, and gypsies. You will encounter personal histories from war survivors and those that did not survive in the form of videos, photographs, and written stories.

Cologne, Germany

Visit the holocaust memorial museum with Anne Frank and other people’s unique documentation
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
An option to select an entire trip guide
Vehicle and driver

3. Munich: Private Tour by Car including Dachau Concentration Camp

Best historical tour of bavaria.

This tour blends Germany’s dark past with its brighter future. Your private tour begins with a charming tour of Munich, the capital of Bavaria. You’ll discover the charm and history in every nook, like the New Town Hall Clock that chimes every hour, and the main square, Marienplatz, where there is always something to see.

Next, you’ll drive 30 minutes to Dachau Concentration Camp, a shocking reminder of how close these atrocities were to a bustling city. Your tour guide will provide you with the heart-breaking history of events that occurred here during the Nazi Reign. Next, you’ll come back to Munich where you have the option to upgrade your tour to visit two additional sites.

Munich, Germany

Year of Significance

Trip to Dachau Concentration Camp, entrance ticket included
Munich city tour
Private vehicle with driver
Optional upgrade: 8-hour full-day tour (including BMW Museum and World and Olympiapark)

4. Pompeii: Ruins and Archaeological Museum Tour from Rome

Best for lovers of ancient rome.

On this full-day tour close to Naples, you will be fascinated by the rich history of Pompeii and its many marvels like erotic art and crafts, artifacts that have been unearthed over the centuries, and significant landmarks with stunning architecture.

These things have all been excavated from the ruins of this ancient city engulfed in ash from the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D .

Pompeii, Italy

Visit the Archaeological Museum and Pompeii’s ruins
Skip the line on your tour
Entrance tickets included

5. Brussels: The Battle of the Bulge Tour

Packed tour for ww2 history buffs.

Your tour guide will teach you about the pivotal Battle of the Bulge , the last major offensive by German armed forces that eventually lead to the end of World War Two. You’ll visit the battle site, three cemeteries and tombs, and the war museum.

There is a pleasant end to the macabre tour. As you come back to the city, you will tour popular parts of Brussels, including picturesque sites of the river and grand architecture.

Brussels, Belgium

Visit the American cemetery, General Patton’s tomb, Mardasson Memorial, and War Museum of Bastogne
Transportation by bus
Professional tour guide

6. Paris: Private Normandy D-Day Beaches Tour

Best for history on seaborne invasion.

The D-Day beaches in Normandy mark the largest seaborne invasion in history, and a pivotal moment for Allied forces during World War Two. 25,000 allied forces landed during the invasion and casualties are estimated up to 20,000 deaths on both sides. These days, these beautiful French beaches have been developed and now host thousands of visitors annually curious to explore its significant past.

This private, guided tour will take you along the D-Day beaches, Colleville Cemetary, and Pointe du Hoc.

Paris, France

Visit Colleville Cemetery to see the perfectly aligned gravestones marking the deaths of 9,200 American soldiers
Go to Pointe du Hoc
English-speaking guide/driver
Optional purchase: Memorial Caen (additional fee)
Hotel pick-up

7. From Thessaloniki: Private Day Trip to Meteora

Ancient greece during the dark ages.

Meteora means “suspended in the air” in Greek, and that is how you’ll feel when you visit the monasteries perched on mountain peaks. There are six in total and most have recently undergone renovation and restoration following damage caused during World War Two and the Greek Civil War. Dress appropriately for this trip with long pants, long sleeves and a long skirt for women. There is some tour customization available. This is a moderate to difficult tour requiring a lot of walking in mountainous areas.

Thessaloniki, Greece

Time Period of Significance

14th century

Visit Meteora’s primary monasteries
Private tour
Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board
Group minimum: 2 persons

8. The Netherlands: World War II Private Day Trip

Discover the netherlands during world war two.

The Netherlands was occupied by Nazis in World War Two and Rotterdam became the location for one of the largest Allied operations to secure transportation lines. Tourists will enjoy a flexible tour while visiting the charming historical sites, with breaks to dig into sumptuous meals or refreshments.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Rotterdam city tour, including Rotterdam White House, City Hall, Laurens Church, and Delfshaven
Explore The Arnhem Oosterbeek Cemetery and the John Frost Bridge
Learn more about the history of Operation Market Garden, its failure, and the bravery of the soldiers
Private transportation

9. Vienna: Mauthausen Memorial Private Day Trip

Best for world war ii enthusiasts.

It’s estimated almost 100,000 people lost their lives in this concentration camp during World War Two. This guided tour takes you through the entire camp, including the gas chamber, and invites you to pay your respect in the Room of Names.

Also included in the tour is the Stairs of Death, where prisoners were forced to carry 100+ pound rough-hewn granite on their backs and climb close to 200 stairs. This form of torture is even more grotesque because if someone dropped one of the stones, it often injured or killed the people climbing behind the person.

Vienna, Austria

Explore Mauthausen Museum which became a prison facility where many people lost their lives
Visit Wiener-Graben quarry, the Room of Names, the SS-Quarters, the Stairs of Death, the camp prison, and the gas chamber

Eight hours

10. World War I Battlefields & War Museum of Meaux Day Tour

Best for world war one enthusiasts.

This large-group tour takes you through battlefields, cemetaries and the war museum honoring the massive loss of life in this area during World War One. Seeing the approximately 2,300 gravesites is a profound representation of the devestation the country felt during this time.

As you visit the battlefields, such as on Bois Belleau, you’ll see what remains of dug-out trenches in the forest and bullet holes in the worn-torn buildings.

Visit the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, the Memorial Chapel, the Côte 204 Monument, Belleau Wood
Hotel pick-up
Transportation by air-conditioned minibus
Entrance fee at the Museum of the Great War included
Group maximum: 18 people

11. Berlin and Sachsenhausen: Shore Trip from Warnemünde Port

Editor’s choice.

Warnemünde is a beautiful port city that is now popular among tourists enjoying a vacation on the Baltic; however, during World War Two, it was heavily bombed by Soviets, Germans, and the Allies, and many prisoners of war were housed in prison camps here.

On this cruise, you’ll get a glimpse of this sad history and visit several historical sites. You’ll also travel to where the Berlin wall stood and visit the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, where thousands lost their lives.

Warnemünde, Germany

Cruise ship pick-up and drop-off
Visit the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Jewish Memorial
Discover the crimes of the Nazi regime at the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial
Air-conditioned transportation
English-speaking tour guides

Why is Dark Tourism Becoming Popular?

Dark tourism is nothing new, though it is becoming increasingly popular and discussed as people use the internet to uncover more and more places that highlight the worst parts of history. Dark tourism sites are generally associated with negative emotions: grief, fear, and sadness, and mainstream media has been able to popularize this content because there is an interest in it.

Furthermore, visiting the locations of these man-made atrocities and devasting natural disasters is a way to put history in perspective, and teach feature generations to think for themselves so history doesn’t repeat itself. You may not be able to understand that in a text book.

Some of the most well-known sites in recent history are:

Auschwitz-Birkenau German nazi extermination center (Poland)
Choeung Ek killing fields (Cambodia)
Chernobyl nuclear power plant, which is the worst nuclear tragedy in history (Ukraine)
9-11 Ground Zero in New York City (USA)
Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, which is now known as Peace Memorial (Japan)
Mount Vesuvius eruption site (Italy)

Is dark tourism good or bad?

The popularity of dark tourism continues to grow as more people travel worldwide to visit sites of atrocities, accidents, natural disasters, or infamous death. While some people criticize this trend as exploitative to local communities and inappropriate for travelers who may not be prepared for the emotional experiences they encounter, others argue that the essential parts of dark tourism are its ability to educate visitors about current events while providing a sense of reflection on their own actions.

As knowledge and travel to these destinations increase, it is essential to do due diligence on the impact your trip has on local communities. Make sure you’re not exploiting your guides by paying a fair wage, clean up after yourself, and don’t take or damage historical artifacts just so you can get your kicks.

Dark Tourism Books

The world of dark tourism is not only limited to visiting in person. Fortunately, there are a number of authors who document these specific tragic events and preserve this knowledge in books for future readers. For example, we all have heard stories about Dracula’s castle in Romania or the volcanic eruption that engulfed Pompeii though these events occurred many generations ago.

So if you’re curious about specific dark tourism destinations or planning a trip to one, I recommend reading about the history before booking the trip. A good google search will generate a list of suggestions of popular books to help you plan your trip.

Broad Resources

If you’re curious about learning about the broad topic of dark tourism, here are some books and blogs to add to your reading list:

I am the Dark Tourist by Rebecca Bathory
Shadow Trails: Adventures of Dark Tourism by Tom Coote
Tales from the Haunted South: Dark Tourism and Memories of Slavery from the Civil War Era by Tiya Miles.
Dark Tourism Blog

Dark Tourism Statistics

Visiting dark tourism locations has increased in popularity over the past two decades in great part because the speed of information has rapidly grown with the internet. Even a simple scroll through Netflix will show you how popular it is to learn about the world of criminals, strange and unusual places, nuclear disasters, and other topics that may not be similar to the “normal” beachside vacation.

Which dark tourism destination is your favorite?

Dark tourism vacations are one-of-a-kind trips that are incomparable to the standard vacations most will experience and are guaranteed to be life-altering. One of the most unique aspects of dark tourism is exploring these places and the opportunity for reflection. Undeniably, these types of tourism experiences can make someone uncomfortable, sad, or even fearful at times, it can also be a way to keep the past from repeating itself.

Have you visited any of these destinations or do you plan to? Let me know in the comments below.

If you’re looking to visit some more cheerful destinations, then check out these recommendations from our family:

Sandviken, Sweden
Ao Nang, Krabi, Thailand
Gävle, Sweden

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase a paid plan. Thank you, if you do. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy .

Swedish-American mom, wife, travel vlogger & property manager. I like drawing on my iPad at cafes when I have a moment alone, and the idea of hiking and nordic skiing!

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What is dark tourism and why is it so popular?

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Dark tourism is a type of tourism that has received increasing attention in recent years. TV shows, such as Chernobyl and The Dark Tourist, have introduced the concept of dark tourism to the minds of motives of many tourists around the world. But what is dark tourism? Is dark tourism ethical? How can you be a ‘good’ dark tourist?

In this post I will define the concept of dark tourism, explain why dark tourism is so popular and provide a few examples of dark tourism sites. I will also discuss the ethics of dark tourism, which are somewhat controversial.

What is dark tourism?

Dark tourism definitions

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Dark tourism, also known as black tourism, thanatourism or grief tourism, is tourism that is associated with death or tragedy.

The act of dark tourism is somewhat controversial, with some viewing it as an act of respect and others as unethical practice.

Popular dark tourism attractions include Auschwitz, Chernobyl and Ground Zero. Lesser known dark tourism attractions might include cemeteries, zombie-themed events or historical museums.

Dark Tourism started to gain academic attention in the early 90s, but it is only recently that it has sparked the interest of the media and the general public.

An early definition defined by John Lennon and Malcolm Foley , define dark tourism as “the representation of inhuman acts, and how these are interpreted for visitors”.

In a more recent publication, Kevin Fox Gotham defines dark tourism as “the circulation of people to places characterized by distress, atrocity, or sadness and pain. As a more specific component of dark tourism, “disaster tourism” denotes situations where the tourism product is generated within, and from, the aftermath of a major disaster or traumatic event”.

Dark tourism has become the subject of academic debate more and more in recent years, most notably for its critiques and assessment of associated impacts.

Dark tourism encompasses many different ‘dark’ activities. These can range from visiting an attraction such as the London Dungeons, where people are seen laughing and joking (did you know it finishes with a height-restricted ride that imitates people being hung!?), to tourists racing to the scenes of a disaster to provide help and relief. Naturally these are two very different ends of the dark tourism spectrum.

To help us understand the dark tourism sector better, we can organise activities according to the dark tourism spectrum.

On one end of the spectrum (the darkest end) we have extreme or serious dark tourism activities. These are activities which often involve an educational element, such as learning about a Nuclear disaster or a ship wreck. Activities on this end of the scale are associated with an authentic experience, whereby the tourist visits an actual historical site or speaks with people who were involved. Examples might include visiting the Berlin Wall or Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields in Cambodia.

On the other end of the spectrum, activities tend to be of a more commercial nature. A Jack the Ripper themed funfair ride or a comical play based around the Black Plague are effectively romanticised versions of dark events or times in history. The intention is for the tourist to have fun and enjoy themselves, rather than to be educated about said historical reference.

The question is, why is dark tourism so popular? Why do we choose to visit places of death and tragedy? What is it that attracts us to such sorrow?

For many, it is purely the possibility of being able to emotionally absorb oneself in a place of tragedy. It is important for people to engage and immerse themselves in past history and culture . By visiting dark tourism sites, we are able to give ourselves time to reflect on history.

Dark tourism has close ties with educational tourism. Particularly in cases of darkest/darker tourism. For many people, this is a dominant, if not their main, motivation for being a dark tourist. Whilst dark tourism may not be a happy leisure experience, many people enjoy the educational aspect that comes with it. I know that I have certainly enjoyed visiting famous cemeteries and learning more about WW2 during my travels to Berlin and Poland .

Visitors of dark tourism sites are from a wide socio-demographic group. Motivations stem from educational purposes, the desire to understand past affairs, etc. Whilst other motivations stem from the desire to experience something different or new.

I recently watched a series on Netflix called The Dark Tourist. In this show, journalist David Farrier focuses on dark tourism and tourist behaviour towards popular dark tourism sites that are historically associated with death and/or tragedy.

In each episode, David travels to a different dark tourism destination. Some of these sites I have visited before and others I have now added to my bucket list. If you’re interested in learning more about dark tourism attractions around the world then this is a great show to watch!

If reading is more your thing, there are also a couple of really great books on dark tourism. Two of my favourites are Don’t Go There: From Chernobyl to North Korea—one man’s quest to lose himself and find everyone else in the world’s strangest places and The Dark Tourist: Sightseeing in the world’s most unlikely holiday destinations. Both books are comical repertoires of the authors’ adventures and mishaps when visiting dark tourism attractions around the world. This makes for some great like, leisurely reading over a glass of wine or a cup of tea!

Types of dark tourism

According to Stone (2006), there are seven main types of dark tourism sites.

Fun factories are essentially play centres. Whilst these are usually associated with children, they can also be aimed at adults. There are, for example, escape rooms which evolve around a dark theme, zombie chases or theatrical activities that all take place in dark fun factories.

There are many different dark exhibitions throughout the world. I visited several during my travels to Berlin that were focussed on the Holocaust. I visited exhibitions on the Khmer Rouge Regime in Cambodia. I have been to exhibitions about the Vietnam War and many more.

Dark exhibitions are a good opportunity for tourists to learn about the dark histories or events of a destination in a respectful way.

Many destinations open their historical dungeons for public viewing. These may be in their original state or they may have been altered for tours. The London Dungeons, for example, have become rather ‘Disneyfied’, in the way that they encompass live actors, sensory activities and rides.

There are some really interesting cemeteries that I have visited throughout the world. Whilst visiting a graveyard might not be at the top of every tourists list, you might be surprised at just how busy these places can be! Some famous cemeteries that I have visited include the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, the Recoleta Cemetery in Argentina and Lenin’s Mausoleum in Moscow. Did you know the Taj Mahal is also a dark resting place? Yep, I’ve been there too.

There are many shrines throughout the world which are popular tourist attractions, perhaps the most famous being the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. Shrines are especially popular in Asian countries.

Sites of conflict often become dark tourism sites once peace has been restored and a reasonable period of time has passed. One of the most interesting conflict sites that I have visited was Vietnam, where I learned all about the Vietnam War. The D-Day Beaches in France were also very interesting.

There are several areas of genocide which are popular with tourists. Whilst this is obviously a sad history, many people choose to visit sites such as Auschwitz or Karaganda, Kazakhstan to learn more about the history.

I think that Stone has missed out a key type of dark tourism in his list- disaster sites- so I will add this in below.

Disaster sites, whether in the immediate aftermath or after some time has passed, are popular with dark tourists. A subset of dark tourism, disaster tourism has increased in popularity in recent years. The recent documentary on Chernobyl, which was ranked the most highly user rated TV series ever, has helped raise awareness of disaster tourism amongst the public and tourism to this area has since increased significantly. I have written a detailed post on this topic, you can click here to read it: Disaster tourism: What, why and where .

There are a variety of types of disaster tourism that falls under the pillar of dark tourism, which include:

Holocaust tourism
Disaster tourism
Grave tourism
Cold war tourism
Nuclear tourism
Prison and persecution site tourism

Whilst each of these concepts are a type of tourism in their own right, they do share many similarities and are therefore classified together under the umbrella term of dark tourism.

So, is it really ethical to visit sites of death and tragedy? Or to photograph those who continue to sorrow for all that is lost? Or to take a selfie in a site of sadness? Many people do indeed question the ethics of taking part in dark tourism.

Take the response to the recent influx of Instagram photos taken in Chernobyl, for instance. There has been outrage, as shown in this newspaper article , at so-called ‘influencers’ and their inappropriate photographs taken at the historical nuclear site, where people have dressed up as scientists or posed in their underwear.

Whilst I think that most of us would agree that this is not sustainable tourist behaviour , there are a range of views as to what is appropriate and what is not when taking part in dark tourism.

As a general guide, however, here is a list of some of the behaviours demonstrated by dark tourists, which have been deemed offensive or inappropriate:

Photographing people in moments of sorrow
Smiling and laughing around those experiencing hardship
Treating people as if they are museum exhibits
Making inappropriate remarks
Wearing disrespectful clothes
Using inappropriate language
Committing to disaster tourism for personal gain (e.g. personal satisfaction, to enhance CV etc)
Making money from others’ hardships
Talking loudly about unrelated issues
Showing general signs of disrespect

Dark tourism destinations

There are a wide range of disaster tourism destinations (more than one would have imagined!), many of which would be overlooked as a dark tourism destination.

Below I have listed a few examples of dark tourism destinations, all of which demonstrate the different types of dark tourism as listed above.

Following the largest and most deadly Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz was turned into a memorial after the end of WWII. Auschwitz has been deemed the very epitome of all dark tourism.

Today, the memorial site is estimated to have welcomed almost 50 million tourists over its time. The tourist numbers have, in fact, become so high in recent years that the government have limited how many tickets to the area can be sold to tourists each day. I was caught out by this on my trip there a couple of years ago so my tip is to book ahead!

Chernobyl has been regarded as one of the worst nuclear disasters in History and I learnt a lot about this when I watched the recent documentary that was shown on TV.

Chernobyl is a very popular destination for dark tourism, however unlike Auschwitz, this destination remains a hazard and is to date a dangerous site to visit due to the radiation levels still pertinent.

It is interesting to read in a recent article published this month that booking numbers have increased by 30% in the last 3 months following the recent tv series on the disaster.

Hiroshima preserves the memory of the worlds first nuclear attack. An atomic bomb at Hiroshima killed more people in one instant than any other killing in history.

Hiroshima continues to promote itself as a symbol of peace rather than that of a devastated city.

In 2016, the number of visitors reached over 12 million. Over 11 million were domestic tourists , 323,000 were students on school trips, and 1,176,000 were international visitors.

Following one of the worlds worst terrorist attacks, the 9/11 memorial site is one of the world’s top dark tourism attractions and is one of the most visited sites of any kind.

Within the first 2 years of the memorial opening, over 10 million visitors arrived and a couple years later the total figure rose to over 23 million.

The Killing Fields are a collection of (more than 300) sites in Cambodia where over a million people were killed and buried by the Khmer Rouge regime.

This is a popular tourism attractions and often considered a ‘right of passage’ when backpacking around South East Asia. It is an educational and sorrowful site, highlighting an important time in Cambodia’s history.

One recent article has expressed the issues faced with the high volume of tourists visiting the Killing Fields. This is due to the number of tourists ‘leaving their mark’ and graffiting on prison walls.

Bikini Atoll is associated mainly with the nuclear testing programme that the United States of America conducted.

Unlike natural disasters, tourists could not flock to Bikini Atoll immediately after, and even to this day, Bikini Atoll remains an extremely hazardous place to visit despite the US granting its safety in 1997.

It is argued that disaster tourists are putting themselves at risk by travelling to Bikini Atoll. There is still a significant level of radiation in the area and the extent of the damage caused below sea level has not been determined.

This particular disaster is categorised as nuclear tourism under the umbrella of dark tourism.

Berlin was the capital of the socialist single party regime of the former GDR. Now it is referred to the as ‘fall of the Berlin Wall’.

Berlin is home to a number of Holocaust and WW2 exhibitions and is popular with educational tourists. I took a student group there a few years ago and I would definitely recommend it for anybody studying tourism or history.

There are other countries that similar experiences too, including dark tourism in Vienna .

Robben Island can be observed as a form of Prison and persecution site tourism. In fact the prison has been recognised and preserved as a UNWTO World Heritage Site.

Prior to its conservation, the Island was a standing prison during the colonial wars, particularly dominante by successive colonial powers (Dutch and British).

Nowadays, the prison is a tourist site welcoming thousands of tourists each year. The tour guides are mostly ex-inmates, providing the tourist with an authentic account of what the prison was like when it was in operation as well as a much needed source of employment for the staff member.

We visited during our trip to South Africa and found it very interesting and educational. I learnt a lot about Nelson Mandela and the history of Apartheid.

Rwanda is a small country in Central Africa and the place where one of the most tragic and largest genocides took place in 1994.

This is now a dark tourism site which is visited by many tourists each year.

One of the most interesting and unusual dark tourism sites that I have visited is Oradur Sur Glane .

In 1944, 642 villagers were massacred in Oradur Sur Glane. Shortly after the war, General Charles de Gaulle declared Oradour should never be rebuilt and instead it should remain a stark memorial to Nazi cruelty. It is fascinating (and eerie) because everything remains untouched to this day.

Have you ever watched the film Pompeii’?, If so then you will know exactly the history behind the city and what happened.

Pompeii has received an enormous amount of visitors and this may be the result of its publicity following its recent film. Before the film was released, Pompeii was attracted on average 2 million visitors annually, a number that remained very steady from 2002 onwards. However, following the release of the film, tourist numbers staggered upwards reaching over 3.5 million.

Another place that I have visited that was particularly memorable was the bone church known as Sedlec Ossuary.

We took a day trip from Prague to visit this unusual attraction, which was eerie and fascinating at the same time!

You can find out a bit more about the bone church in this video.

South of Mexico City, Don Julian Santana begun to hang dolls from treess and buildings as a protection against evil spirits. Today, the Island is known as ‘Island of the Dolls’. Dubbed as the ‘scariest place in Mexico’, it has now become a popular attraction with thrill-seeking dark tourists.

However, it has come to recent attention that the Island has been duplicated to fool tourists into believing they are visiting the original Island.

Now that we know a bit more about the concept of dark tourism, lets summarise the key points:

Dark tourism involves visiting places associated with death, tragedy, and suffering.
Dark tourism is a controversial form of tourism that raises ethical concerns.

Dark tourism has been around for centuries, but the term “dark tourism” was only coined in the 1990s.

Some of the most popular dark tourism destinations include Auschwitz, Ground Zero, and the Killing Fields in Cambodia.
Dark tourism can be educational and help people understand and appreciate history.
Dark tourism can also be seen as exploitative and disrespectful to the victims and their families.
Responsible tourism practices should be followed when engaging in dark tourism.
The motivations for engaging in dark tourism vary, including curiosity, historical interest, and a desire to pay respects to the victims.
Dark tourism can have positive economic impacts on local communities.
Overall, dark tourism is a complex and nuanced form of tourism that requires careful consideration and reflection.

Lastly, lets finish off this article by answering some of the most commonly asked questions on this topic.

Dark tourism refers to travel to places that are associated with death, tragedy, and suffering.

What are some examples of dark tourism destinations?

Examples of dark tourism destinations include Auschwitz, Ground Zero, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.

Is dark tourism ethical?

The ethics of dark tourism are debated. Some people argue that it can be educational and help preserve historical memory, while others believe that it can be exploitative and disrespectful to the victims and their families.

What are some of the motivations for engaging in dark tourism?

Some people are motivated by curiosity, historical interest, a desire to pay respects to the victims, or a desire to challenge their own perceptions and beliefs.

Are there any risks associated with dark tourism?

Some dark tourism destinations may have physical or psychological risks, such as exposure to radiation or disturbing images.

How can I engage in responsible dark tourism?

Responsible dark tourism involves being respectful of the victims and their families, supporting local communities, and being aware of the impact of your visit.

Is dark tourism a new phenomenon?

Can dark tourism be beneficial for local economies?

Yes, dark tourism can bring economic benefits to local communities through increased tourism and job opportunities.

Can dark tourism be educational?

Yes, dark tourism can be educational and help people understand and appreciate history and its impact on society.

Should children be allowed to engage in dark tourism?

Whether children should be allowed to engage in dark tourism depends on the age of the child and the destination being visited. Parents should carefully consider the potential risks and impact on the child’s emotional well-being.

Dark tourism is an interesting concept that has reaped increased attention from both academics and the public in recent years. Whether you are visiting a cemetery, taking part in a zombie race or providing relief after a natural disaster, the opportunities to take part in dark tourism activities are far ranging.

It is fairly clear that there are a number of different types of tourism that all fall under the umbrella of dark tourism. And with the different types of dark tourism, comes a variety of different tourist motivations to visit.

However, despite the different motivations, there are still unresolved ethical concerns that need addressing. From inappropriate selfies to taking photos of people who are grieving, there are differing opinions on whether dark tourism is right or wrong.

If you enjoyed this article, I am sure you will love these too:

What Sustainable Tourism Is + Why It Is The Most Important Consideration Right Now
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Dark tourism, the holocaust, and well-being: A systematic review

Affiliations.

1 Research Center in Business and Economics (CICEE), Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa, Rua Sta. Marta 47, 5.° Andar, 1150-293 Lisboa, Portugal.
2 Department of Business Organization, Business Administration and Tourism School, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain.
3 Center for Philosophical and Humanistic Studies, Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences, Portuguese Catholic University, Rua de Camões 60, 4710-362 Braga, Portugal.
PMID: 36711286
PMCID: PMC9873685
DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13064

Dark tourists experience negative and positive feelings in Holocaust places, suggesting emotional ambivalence. The research question of this study is, "is feeling well-being, as a consequence of dark tourism, a way of banalizing the horror?". The purpose of this study is threefold: to provide an updated systematic literature review (SLR) of dark tourism associated with Holocaust sites and visitors' well-being; to structure the findings into categories that provide a comprehensive overview of the topics; and to identify which topics are not well covered, thus suggesting knowledge gaps. Records to be included should be retrievable articles in peer-reviewed academic journals, books, and book chapters, all focused on the SLR's aims and the research question; other types of publications were outrightly excluded. The search was performed in Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases with three keywords and combinations: "dark tourism", "Holocaust", and "well-being". Methodological decisions were based on the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies (RoBANS). This systematic review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. During the process, 144 documents were included, of which 126 were journal articles, 8 were books, and 10 were book chapters. The results point out a hierarchical structure with the main category (Dark tourism - Holocaust - Well-being) and three second-order categories (Dark tourism - Holocaust, Dark tourism - Well-being, and Holocaust - Well-being), from which different subcategories emerge: motivations for visiting places and guiding; ambivalent emotional experience that leads to the transformation of the self; and intergenerational trauma. The gaps identified were the trivialization of horror in Holocaust places; dark tourist profile; motivations and constraints behind visiting dark places; Holocaust survivors and their descendants' well-being; how dark tourism associated with the Holocaust positively or negatively impacts well-being. Major limitations included: lack of randomized allocation; lack of standard outcome definitions; and suboptimal comparison groups. Positive and negative impacts on the well-being of the Holocaust dark tourist were sought, as they are associated with the marketing and management, promotion, digital communication, guiding, or storytelling design of such locations.

Keywords: Dark tourism; Holocaust; Systematic review; Thanatourism; Well-being.

Athens Dark Tourism Guide 2023 (updated for 2024)

Athens Blog

Travel insurance in 2024: Being safe while travelling to Athens (updated)

Η.Μ.S TRIUMPH Submarine found deep into the Aegean after 80 years

Introducing athens’ dark tourism scene, exploring the ruins and monuments of ancient greece.

Taking in the Urban Legends of Athens' Streets

Penetrating the Mysterious Crypts of Athens

Seeking out the haunted houses in athens, notable dark tourism sites in athens, the athens war museum, overview and historical significance, notable exhibits and collections, visiting information, the kaisariani rifle range (skopeftirio), historical context, transformation into a memorial site, the 1941-1944 memorial site, the fascinating history of 4 korai street mansion, how to visit and what to expect, the athens polytechnic university, significance of the polytechnic uprising.

Commemorative Events and the Gate's Symbolism

The Haidari Concentration Camp (Block 15)

Its history during world war ii, current status and the future as a museum, the parnitha sanatorium, origins and various uses throughout history, status as an abandoned site and visitor advice, the davelis cave, legends and history surrounding the cave, the cave as a natural and mythological point of interest, the first cemetery of athens, cemetery as a historic site and open-air museum, notable graves and examples of funerary art, sample itinerary for a dark tourist visit to athens.

Welcome to the ultimate dark tourism guide for Athens in 2023! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, or an outsider curious about an ancient culture and its hidden secrets, this guide will provide all the information you need. From exploring long-forgotten mine shafts on world-renowned archaeological sites, to uncovering historically significant events in haunted cathedrals, get ready to explore some unforgettable experiences around Athens with our user-friendly google maps feature. Travelers can use this interactive map as they navigate their way through history while discovering exciting national monuments and iconic cultural hubs around town. Be warned though: there are arrows along the route that point towards places best left undiscovered due to their potentially spooky vibes so be sure not to click past them too quickly!

Welcome to Athens, a city rich in history and culture. While most visitors come to explore the ancient temples and marvel at the stunning architecture, there is another side to Athens that has been gaining popularity among tourists – its dark tourism scene. From the time of the Ottoman Empire to Greece's more recent economic crisis, Athens has experienced its fair share of dark and tragic events. And for those interested in exploring the city's haunting past, there are plenty of options to choose from. Take a tour of the infamous prison, where political dissidents were tortured during the military dictatorship or visit the site of a devastating terrorist attack that shook the city in 2003. While Athens' dark tourism scene may not be for everyone, it does offer a unique opportunity to explore the city's troubled, yet fascinating history.

Embark on a journey back in time to the ancient Greek civilization and explore the ruins and monuments that still stand tall today. From the iconic Parthenon in Athens to the impressive Temple of Zeus in Olympia, the architecture alone is awe-inspiring. But these structures are not just aesthetically pleasing - they are windows to the past, offering insight into the daily lives, myths, and beliefs of the ancient Greeks. Imagine walking along ancient roads, marveling at the intricate details of sculptures that have stood for millennia, and soaking in the rich history of this remarkable civilization. A visit to these ancient ruins and monuments is a must for any history buff or travel enthusiast.

Taking in the Urban Legends of Athens' Streets

As you wander the streets of Athens, you may begin to hear whispers of the city's urban legends. From the infamous "Melo-Katsourbos," a mischievous jester who reportedly haunts the streets of Monastiraki, to the eerie tales of the abandoned Psychiko Children's Hospital, there's no shortage of chilling stories to send shivers down your spine. But these legends aren't all frights and horrors. Some, like the story of the Beggar's Opera, offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural history. So next time you're strolling through Athens, keep your ears open and see what stories you can uncover. Who knows what secrets and mysteries lurk just around the corner?

Welcome to Athens, a city steeped in mystery and history. As you wander through the bustling streets, it's hard not to feel in awe of the ancient wonders surrounding you. But if you're a true adventurer at heart, then you must venture underground to the mysterious crypts of Athens. Once used to house the remains of the dead, these crypts now hold centuries of secrets waiting to be discovered. Imagine walking through narrow passageways, surrounded by cold stone walls and dimly lit torches, feeling the weight of history bearing down on you. With every step, you'll uncover new clues to the past, from ancient hieroglyphics to hidden treasures. So grab your flashlight, and let's journey into the heart of Athens' intriguing past!

Athens, the historic capital of Greece, is a city rich in ancient myths and legends. If you're seeking an adrenaline rush and spine-tingling adventure, Athens is home to a plethora of haunted houses that are sure to give you goosebumps. From the eerie and abandoned mansion on Kifissia Avenue to the notorious Tower of the Winds, said to be home to the powerful wind daemon Boreas, there is an abundance of spooky spots to explore. Brave souls seeking something truly out of the ordinary can even visit the abandoned underground catacombs beneath the city, where ghosts of ancient Greeks are said to roam. So, book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable ghost-hunting adventure in Athens.

Nestled in the heart of the city, the Athens War Museum stands as a sentinel to Greece's storied past. Established in 1975, its architectural grandeur hints at the treasures within, encapsulating the valor and sacrifice of Greek soldiers. The museum holds paramount significance in illustrating the city's role as a battleground in various conflicts.

The museum boasts a staggering collection of over 20,000 artifacts, each telling its own tale of heroism and hardship. Visitors encounter everything from antiquated weaponry from the Greco-Persian Wars to contemporary military technology. Notable exhibits include an Avro Anson plane, used during the Nazi occupation, and a fascinating array of uniforms worn by Greek soldiers throughout history.

Opening its gates from Monday to Sunday, the museum invites you to traverse through time from 09:00 to 17:00. Reaching the site is convenient, with several public transport links available. Admission costs start from 6 euros for adults, making it a must-see destination for any history enthusiast visiting Athens.

A mere whisper among locals not long ago, the Kaisariani Rifle Range has emerged as a monument to courage and resistance. It was here, in the grim days of May 1944, that the Nazi Occupation Forces executed 200 Greek partisans, etching a somber chapter in Athens' history.

Today, the rifle range is a testimony to the indomitable spirit of Greek resistance. Local authorities have meticulously transformed the once-forbidding grounds into a tranquil memorial site. Visitors can pay their respects at this hallowed ground and reflect upon the sacrifices made for freedom.

The story of the 4 Korai Street Mansion is one of resilience and remembrance. A mundane building took on a cloak of darkness during the WWII occupation, sheltering the Kommandantur—infamous for its role in detention and governance under Axis control. In the subterranean cells, countless tales of defiance and survival were etched into the walls by the imprisoned, a solemn yet powerful record.

Immersive and memorable, a visit here is a reverent experience. The remnants of wartime detention facilities offer a chilling reminder of those tumultuous times. Given the restored nature of the space, visitors walk in the shoes of the prisoners, experiencing the stark reality that no history book can fully convey.

The Athens Polytechnic Uprising of 1973 epitomizes the struggle for democracy and truth. When an autocratic junta stifled civil liberties, the resounding call for freedom echoed through the university's halls, a call that was met with fatal force.

Commemorative Events and the Gate's Symbolism

Today, the Polytechnic still hosts events to commemorate the uprising, keeping its memory alive. The charred remains of the university gate, breached by a tank in a fateful clash between the youth and the junta, remain untouched. It stands as a permanent testament to the power of protest and the perils that come with it.

A hushed visitation amidst the tranquil suburb of Haidari reveals the stark contrast of war's horrors. Block 15, a part of the Haidari Concentration Camp, saw the detention and torture of Greek citizens by the Nazi regime. Today, it serves as a vital archival and research center dedicated to preserving the memory of those who endured the camps' injustices.

Efforts are underway to transform this site into a museum, ensuring that the lessons from history remain relevant in contemporary discourse. By shedding light on the excesses of totalitarian regimes, visitors will gain a profound understanding of the perils of prejudice and aggression.

Nestled upon Mount Parnitha's verdant slopes, the Parnitha Sanatorium once offered a sanctuary for tuberculosis patients. Converted into an emergency hospital during World War II, it witnessed the struggles of the wounded, serving as a canvas for tales of perseverance and hope.

The site now lies abandoned, a haunting reminder of the past. As such, it provides a unique opportunity for contemplation. Visitors are advised to approach the sanatorium with respect for its history. The dilapidated structures and eerie silence serve as a poignant backdrop for reflections on the passage of time and the endurance of the human spirit.

The Davelis Cave, steeped in myth and historical intrigue, is a natural formation that has been the subject of many a tale. Home to a variety of fascinatingly eerie formations, the cave's depths conceal secrets that invite intrepid explorers to unravel the mysteries within.

It serves as a natural and mythological point of interest in the region. The cave's geological features, including spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, offer a sensory adventure through time. As you venture deeper, the cave's resonance with history and myth becomes palpable, making for an enthralling experience.

The First Cemetery of Athens exists not only as a resting place for the departed but also as an open-air museum. The grandeur of its ornate tombs and the illustrious figures interred within its hallowed grounds provide a unique reflection on the city's cultural and political history.

Notable figures from the annals of Greek history find their final repose here. The cemetery's diverse array of sculptures and funerary art styles is a tapestry of artistic expression. A stroll through these avenues is akin to a guided tour through the milestones of Greek society, revealing narratives often untold.

Athens is a city steeped in history, and for dark tourists, there are many compelling destinations that explore the darker side of this ancient city. Start your day by visiting the eerie Kokkinia execution site, where over 200 prisoners were executed during the Greek Civil War. Next, head to the controversial Museum of Anti-Dictatorial and Revolutionary Art, which houses a collection of artifacts from Greece's turbulent history. In the afternoon, explore the Athens War Museum, which boasts a vast collection of military memorabilia, including tanks and fighter jets. End the day with a trip to the ancient Kerameikos Cemetery, the final resting place for notable Athenians of the past. As a dark tourist, Athens offers a unique perspective to those seeking an unconventional travel experience.

Athens is the perfect destination for any dark tourist looking to experience an abundance of mystery, creepy vibes and a mystery deep-rooted in history. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, uncover old legends, enter crypts and buildings with secrets locked deep inside. Even the local cuisine has added flavor derived from centuries-old folk recipes. If you are looking to embark on a journey through time, then be sure to make Athens your next stop where you can reconnect with the city's darkness of the past. So make sure to check out our sample itinerary if you're brave enough to take on a daring dark tour in Athens!

Last updated on February 25th, 2024 at 08:38 am

The religion of the city and the importance of the acropolis in Ancient Greece

Ancient Greek Diet, the Guide

The Cultural Debate Around Marina Satti’s “Zari” and Modern Greek Society

The Rise of Dark Tourism [2022 Study]

There’s a good chance you’ve heard the term “dark tourism” before.

Perhaps, you even ventured out to some morbid destinations yourself, such as the 9/11 Memorial Museum in NY or the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Hawaii.

After all, dark tourism—visiting places where some of the darkest events of human history unfolded—has been all the rave in recent years. In part, thanks to the HBO miniseries “Chernobyl” and Netflix series “Dark Tourist.”

That’s why at Passport Photo Online, we’ve decided to survey 900+ Americans to shed some light on the topic of dark tourism, discover travelers’ motivations for visiting macabre destinations, as well as explore the controversy and ethics behind it.

Key Takeaways

82% of Americans have visited at least one dark tourism destination. Of the remaining 18% of US travelers who haven’t engaged in dark tourism yet, 63% said they are interested in it.
The leading motivations for traveling to morbid destinations are the educational aspect that comes with it (52%) and a desire to pay tribute to people affected by the grief event (47%).
The top three most popular dark tourism destinations are the Pearl Harbor National Memorial (45%), Ground Zero (44%), and the Catacombs of Paris (43%).
Most Americans have a positive (46%) or very positive (18%) attitude toward dark tourism—only 9% are against it.
57% of travelers have no liking for fellow tourists taking selfies at macabre destinations.

Dark Tourism: Why Travelers Flock to Sites of Tragedy

As the first order of business, we wanted to gauge the popularity of dark tourism in the US.

It turns out a full 82% of Americans have visited at least one dark tourism destination in their lifetime: 83% of men and 81% of women. Here’s also how different demographics compare:

Gen Zers (25 or younger): 91%
Millennials (26–38): 83%
Gen Xers (39–54): 80%
Baby Boomers (55+): 71%

As for the remaining 18% of US travelers who haven’t engaged in dark tourism yet, we asked if they’re generally interested in visiting morbid destinations: 63% said “Yes.”

We then asked the respondents about their key motivations for engaging in dark tourism. Below are the results:

I enjoy the educational aspect that comes with dark tourism: 52%
I wished to pay tribute to people affected by the grief event: 47%
I wanted to emotionally absorb myself in a place of tragedy: 46%
I was looking to discover a place with a story rather than just visit a trendy destination: 45%

As you can see, the educational aspect came out on top. That’s not all that surprising since dark tourism destinations usually provide travelers with authentic artifacts and help gain a more profound understanding of past events.

Next, we asked Americans what types of dark tourism they find the most appealing:

War/battlefield tourism (recreational travel to active or former war zones): 56%
Disaster tourism (visiting locations at which environmental disasters, either natural or man-made, took place): 56%
Cemetery tourism (type of travel aimed at exploring cemeteries for their artistic, architectonic, historic, and landscape heritage): 53%
Ghost tourism (any form of travel or leisure that involves encounters with or learning about ghosts or hauntings): 52%
Nuclear tourism (visiting places where there have been atomic explosions): 50%
Holocaust/Genocide tourism (travel to places associated with the deliberate mass killing of a particular nation or ethnic group aimed at destroying that nation or group): 49%
Prison and persecution site tourism (involves heritage-related leisure visits to prison museums/attractions or former sites of incarceration): 48%

War/battlefield tourism and disaster tourism took the cake, with 56% of the vote for each.

Note that there’s a degree of overlap, of course, between the presented categories. Yet, a given site can be appealing to the traveler for more than one reason. Hence, the overlap merely reflects reality.

Do you need passport photos? Find out more:

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Dark Tourism Destinations Intrepid Travelers Want to Visit the Most

At this point, we wanted to ask Americans what dark tourism destinations they’d love to visit the most in their lifetime.

We presented the respondents with a list of the most popular dark destination and asked them to take their pick.

See the results below, along with some snappy information about some of the less-obvious places.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Hawaii : 45%
Ground Zero, New York : 44%
Catacombs of Paris, France (underground ossuaries, which hold the remains of 6M+ people in a small part of a tunnel network built to consolidate Paris’ ancient stone quarries): 43%
Hiroshima, and Nagasaki, Japan : 42%
Wreck of the Titanic, North Atlantic : 41%
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, California : 40%
Auschwitz Concentration Camps, Poland (a complex of 40+ concentration and extermination camps operated by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland during WWII and the Holocaust): 39%
Bran Castle, Romania (famous for spawning the original vampire legend of Count Dracula): 39%
Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Ukraine : 37%
Fukushima, Japan : 35%
Wuhan, China : 34%
Choeung Ek, Cambodia (a former orchard and mass grave of 17,000+ men, women, and children killed during the reign of the Khmer Rouge): 32%
Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, Rwanda (a memorial commemorating the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which holds the remains of 250K+ people): 32%
Aokigahara Forest, Japan (associated with suicide and eventually becoming known by the nickname “the Suicide Forest,” the forest has gained a reputation as one of the world’s most-used suicide sites): 32%
Azovstal plant in Mariupol, Ukraine [post-war] (one of the most emblematic points of the Siege of Mariupol during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine): 31%

Predictably, places historically near and dear to Americans have risen to the top, with the Pearl Harbor National Memorial (45%) and the World Trade Center site (44%) taking the first two spots.

We also went out on a limb and included the Azovstal plant in Mariupol, Ukraine, as an option, which was picked by 31% of Americans.

Although the Russia-Ukraine war rages on, we hope people will take an interest in visiting said place after Ukraine’s victory to learn first-hand about the bravery of the Ukrainian soldiers and pay tribute to those who perished defending their motherland.

The Controversy and Ethics behind Dark Tourism

It’s not all black and white when it comes to dark tourism.

While most Americans have a positive (46%) or very positive (18%) attitude toward it, some (9%) have no liking for it, our study finds.

Here’s a quick rundown of the main arguments against dark tourism:

It exploits human suffering: 22%
Dark tourism sites are sometimes presented with a bias, watering down or whitewashing part of history: 18%
It desecrates the sites of human suffering and death: 18%
I just don’t understand the appeal: 16%
I view it as perverse or inappropriate: 13%
It’s voyeuristic: 12%

It’s important to note that whether dark tourism is ethical or not in many ways comes down to your past experiences, upbringing, and culture, among others. Hence, the attitude will vary from person to person.

As our penultimate question, we asked the survey respondents what they think of fellow tourists who take selfies at dark tourism sites. Sadly, it’s not uncommon to see people walking around with selfie sticks and snapping smiling pictures in Chornobyl or at the gates of Auschwitz that infamously read “Arbeit Macht Frei.”

Thus, our study finds that 57% of travelers have a negative or very negative attitude toward tourists taking selfies at morbid destinations.

Lastly, we asked the survey participants what they think of travelers who break the rules of certain dark tourism places. A good case in point is Fukushima, where some adventurous spirits try to explore the red zone, which is forbidden due to its dangerous radioactivity.

The result?

Over half of Americans (51%) disapprove of travelers who break the rules of dark tourism sites—rightfully so.

In summary, dark tourism remains controversial to some. That said, if you’d like to visit a macabre destination, it’s critical to behave respectfully. Here are a few pointers that might come in handy:

Always respect the rules of the site.
Stay sober and quiet.
Only take pictures when it’s allowed. Selfies are somewhat OK if you don’t get in anyone’s way, hold up the tour, or pose disrespectfully.
Avoid causing damage to the site or stealing anything.
Don’t talk on your phone. Ideally, put it on silent.
Refrain from talking negatively about the victims of the tragedy the site commemorates.

Methodology

We conducted an online survey of 937 US respondents via a bespoke online polling tool in May 2022. This study was created through multiple steps of research, crowdsourcing, and surveying. All survey participants’ responses were reviewed by data scientists for quality control. The survey had an attention-check question.

Fair Use Statement

Did our findings help you learn more about dark tourism? If you believe your audience will be interested in this information, feel free to share it. Just remember to mention the source and link back to this page.

Dimitrovski D., Milutinovic S., “Dark Tourism as Educational Tool: The Kragujevac October Memorial Park”
Giray L., “Ghost Tourism: The Thrill Of Fear (Without The Danger)”
Hohenhaus P., “Categories of Dark Tourism”
Hospitality ON, Dark Tourism: Harder, Better, Faster, Darker
McIntosh A., Harkison T., “Prison Tourism”
Sampson H., “Dark Tourism, Explained”
Where the Road Forks, “Dark Tourism Ethics and Criticisms”

As a Digital PR specialist and a member of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), Max has 5+ years of writing experience. Over the course of his career, Max’s work has garnered significant attention, with features in numerous prominent publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, Inc., Business Insider, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, BBC, TechRepublic, Glassdoor, and G2.

[email protected]
+44 203 983 9653

Dark Tourism Holidays

DARK TOURISM HOLIDAYS

If you are looking to break away from the norm and explore a place that is associated with a dark past, you have definitely come to the right place. Dark tourism holidays takes you to places that are identified with death, disaster, tragedy, suffering, destruction and even paranormal activities. Although visiting Dark tourism holidays is not something to be overjoyed about, it will give you an adrenaline rush and a surreal feeling which will be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Added to that, it also allows you to literally take a walk down memory lane and get a deeper understanding of these destinations. So, if you are a curious George, thirsty for a unique and out of this world experience, dark tourism holidays are perfect for you.

How can I pick the perfect Dark tourism holidays?

The perfect choice for your dark tourism holidays depends on what you are most keen to see. Although dark destinations are sites involved with much tragedy, death and destruction, they can take many forms. Disasters can happen in many different ways, be it, natural or industrial. Thus, there are different types of dark tourism destinations for you to choose from. To name a few:

– Disaster area tourism – Grave tourism – War or battlefield tourism – Holocaust tourism – Genocide tourism – Prison tourism – Cold war and iron curtain tourism – Terrorist tourism – Murderers and murderous places tourism – Dark amusement tourism

Dark tourism holidays will definitely take you out of your comfort zone, but it will provide you with invaluable knowledge and information about some of the most tragic events in history. It is a way of understanding the past, in order to make a better future.

Still don’t know what dark destination to pick for your trip? Then head over to our very own blog to find an article on some of the most iconic dark tourism destinations in the world.

Why should I book my dark destination with Aero Travels?

As renowned travel agents in the UK, we at Aero Travels are always looking to provide unique experiences to our customer. We strive to break the taboo associated with dark destinations and provide our customers with the opportunity to witness the culture, significance and rich history found in these places.

We have put together some amazing dark tourism packages for you to explore and witness some of the most talked-about dark destinations in the world. That means you don’t have to worry about booking flights, accommodation or tours because we will be doing all that for you. All you need to do is simply choose the dark destination you wish to explore and we will take care of the rest.

Bucharest Holiday

2 nights Flights Hotel bed and Breakfast Dracula's Castle Tour

Paris Catacombs Tour

2 nights Flights Hotel Bed and Breakfast Basis Catacombs of Paris Tour

Pompeii Mt.Vesuvius Holiday

3 nights Flights Palazzo San Michele bed and Breakfast Basis Dracula's Castle Tour

Aokigahara Forest, Japan

5 nights Flights Agora Place Asakusa bed and Breakfast Aokigahara Forest Trekking Tour

Killings Fields - Cambodia

5 nights Flights Pacific Hotel Phnom Penh bed and Breakfast Killing Fields and Prison S21 Tour

Hiroshima , Japan Dark Holiday

5 nights Flights APA Hotel Hiroshima-Ekimae Ohashi bed and Breakfast Basis Hiroshima Peae Walking Tour

The Day of the Dead Festival - Mexico

5 nights Flights ibis Cancun Centro bed and Breakfast Basis The day of the Dead Festival

The Dungeons of London

3 nights April-September 2022 ibis London Earls Court bed and Breakfast Basis The Dungeons London Entrance Ticket

Dark Tourism Holidays FAQ

Visiting dark tourism destinations allow travellers to walk back in time and take a glimpse into the darkness that existed at some point in history. It also allows them to understand the pain and suffering that the victims had to experience as well as their unwavering perseverance. Today, dark tourism holidays have become widely popular among travellers as it is a unique, intriguing, interesting and not to mention educative experience. Many people go in search of dark destinations to learn and better understand a grim incident or situation that occurred in the past and to pay their respects.

Dark tourism is definitely not for the faint-hearted. If you are hoping to visit any dark tourism destinations, ensure that you are comfortable with where you are going and what you will be witnessing. That being said, it should also be noted that travellers of various age groups; that is from young students to senior citizens, have shown much interest in dark tourism. Thus, it is safe to say that its appropriateness has nothing to do with age, but with one’s mindset.

Dark tourism holidays can vary from visiting a light dark destination such as the London Dungeons, where people have fun, to tourists visiting scenes of mass death or extreme tragedy like Pompeii in Italy, where you feel the pain and suffering that was caused. Thus, the dark tourism spectrum on one end will take you to extremely dark destinations that often involve an educational element such as The Killing Fields of Cambodia. Or on the other hand, it will take you to a lighter dark destination like the Dracula Castle in Bucharest where it is more commercialized and displays romanticized versions of dark history, for fun and entertainment.

The main purpose of dark tourism sites around the world is to commemorate the dead and educate oneself. It allows visitors to emotionally absorb themselves in a place of tragedy and to educate themselves to ensure that history will never repeat itself. People need to immerse themselves in the culture and tragic pasts of different parts of the world in order to truly reflect on history.

Disaster Tourism
Grave Tourism
Holocaust Tourism
Cold War and Iron Curtain Tourism
Nuclear Tourism
Prison and Persecution Site Tourism
War or Battlefield Tourism
Genocide Tourism
Terrorist Tourism
Dark Amusement Tourism
Murderers and Murderous Places Tourism

Although dark tourism sounds like a dangerous concept and many people perceive it as visiting ‘dangerous places’, it most certainly is not dangerous at all. Dark tourism is merely tourism that directs travellers to places that are identified with death and tragedy. Most of these locations are completely harmless now and does not put your life at risk. Thus, it is important to bear in mind that dark tourism is not about putting people’s lives at risk. These destinations were indeed dangerous at some point in history however, not so much anymore.

Dark tourism holidays are indeed important to society as they give a positive impact to the economical side of view by generating income for the affected communities. Furthermore, it benefits both the residents and the tourists emotionally and creates awareness to ensure that history will not be repeated. Dark tourism definitely takes you out of your comfort zone and allows you to experience new things and change your view of the world.

Dark tourism is also known as Black Tourism, Morbid Tourism, Thana Tourism and Grief Tourism.

When embarking on dark tourism holidays, it is important to keep in mind that it is a sensitive destination and there is a different set of manners that are required, no matter how dark.

Don’t touch anything.

One of the most common mistakes that tourists make when visiting most destinations is touching ruins, artefacts, monuments, gravestones or whatever is there in plain sight. This is completely unacceptable, especially when visiting dark tourism destinations as these places should be visited with the same kind of respect as visiting a religious site.

Learn a little bit about the cultures and religions outside of the clichés.

Familiarize yourself with a little about the history of the places you visit and create cultural awareness within yourself beforehand. Furthermore, have an open mind when visiting these destinations instead of blindly believing everything you see and hear.

Rethink when and where you take selfies.

Be mindful of where you are and behave respectfully. Dark tourism spots are to be treated extremely delicately, so busting out your selfie stick and snapping away is not something that should be practised at such sites. First, check if photography is permitted and act accordingly.

Dress and behave appropriately.

Most dark tourism site around the world have witnessed great tragedy and loss. Thus, when visiting such places it is necessary to dress appropriately and show your respect to the departed souls as well as the community.

Chernobyl, Ukraine
Auschwitz Concentration Camps, Poland
Pompeii, Italy
Hiroshima, Japan
Catacombs, Paris
Killing Fields, Cambodia
The Day of the Dead Festival, Mexico
Dracula Castle, Bucharest
The London Dungeons, England

Book your holidays now

Call 0203 983 9653 , to speak to a travel consultant

Dark tourism explained by british tour operators., top 10 dark tourism destinations to visit in 2022/2023.

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Florida reaches record levels of tourism, Gov. DeSantis says

Related video: Clearwater Beach prepares for an influx of tourism during Spring Break 2024.

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — To say we live where others vacation, rings true.

According to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office, Florida has reached “unprecedented” levels of tourism, based on revised figures from 2023.

Last year, the state welcomed more than 140.6 million visitors, solidifying the Sunshine State as a premier destination for travelers. This is a 2.3% increase from 2022.

The numbers for domestic visitors came in at 129.1 million people, along with 8.3 million overseas travelers and 3.2 million from Canada.

DeSantis added that the first three months of 2024 yielded more than 40.6 million visitors, the most ever recorded in a single quarter, with a 1.3% increase from the first quarter in 2023. Within the first few months of this new year, domestic visitors hit a new high of 37.2 million people, 2.1 million from overseas and 1.3 million from Canada.

“Once again, Florida leads the nation as an unrivaled destination for tourists,” DeSantis said in the announcement on Thursday. “These record-breaking numbers show that our work has made the free state of Florida even more attractive to visitors.”

So what cities are the hot spots for travelers?

According to DeSantis’ office, the state’s busiest airport was Orlando International, which saw 7.6 million enplanements, followed by Miami International at 7.5 million. Fort Myers airports saw the biggest increase, with Tallahassee seeing notable growth.

Overall Florida airports saw a 9.4% increase in total enplanements, climbing to 30.2 million.

“Florida continues to welcome visitors with open arms,” Dana Young, the President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, said. “The record-breaking visitation seen in 2023 and continued through the first quarter of 2024 reaffirms Florida’s status as a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.

Florida reaches record levels of tourism, Gov. DeSantis says

Louisville smashed its tourism record in 2023. Here's why this year could be even bigger

Louisville saw a hot streak with tourism in 2023 and hopes to continue the momentum this year as the city gears up for Kentucky Derby 150 , the 106th PGA Championship , and major music festivals returning in the fall.

Across the metro, several attractions geared toward tourists — including the Kentucky Derby Museum , Urban Bourbon experiences, and Louder Than Life — had a record-breaking year, drawing in more guests than any prior.

Last year also saw a full-scale return to normal in terms of conventions, meetings, tradeshows, and events around the city, following a struggling tourism industry as a result of the pandemic.

"At the top of 2023, we felt Louisville was well positioned for growth and was finally past the recovery stage," Cleo Battle, president and CEO of Louisville Tourism said. "With the influx of new development under construction, planned and just announced — we are rapidly snowballing Louisville’s national profile, adding more ‘meat’ to our convention package and leisure appeal."

Coming off such a successful year, Louisville is well positioned to continue growing its tourism economy with Battle noting bourbon visitor experiences continue to be trendy and two large, international sporting events calling the city home for the year.

Here's a look at some of the tourism records broken in 2023 and what's expected in 2024.

What tourism activities had a record-breaking 2023?

Kentucky Derby Museum : all-time attendance record with more than 250,000 visits
KFC Yum! Center : hosted three largest-selling performances of North American arena tours for three national acts
Louder Than Life : recorded more than 163,000 music festivalgoers
Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory : new single-day attendance high of 3,749 guests
Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) : busiest year to date, with more than 4.6 million passengers coming through the airport
Urban Bourbon Experience : hosted a record 572,526 visitors at Louisville's 11 distilleries

What tourism activities are expected for 2024?

This year will be the year of sports tourism in Louisville , and the city also expects more growth in bourbon-related tourism, known locally as bourbonism.

“We know Louisville will be in the national limelight several times throughout the year, elevating the city’s brand well past 2024,” Battle said in a press release .

Louisville Tourism, the official destination marketing organization for Louisville, estimates the 150th Kentucky Derby and Oaks Day will draw in 256,000 guests and more than $405 million in economic impact, making it the largest tourism event of the year.

What's coming to Louisville in 2024: New grocery stores, shops, distilleries, hotels and more opening around Louisville

Just behind Derby comes the 106th PGA Championship anticipated to bring in 200,000 visitors and about $78.5 million in economic impact. The third largest tourism event is expected to be the TFN Run 4 Roses Classic and Championship, garnering an estimated 195,000 people in attendance and $30.4 million in economic impact.

Bourbonism is also expected to bring new venues to the metro , including Bob Dylan’s The Last Refuge, which is located in a repurposed church in NuLu and brings a restaurant, whiskey bar, and live music venue to the city. Log Still Distillery’s Monk’s Road Boiler House is also expected to open a restaurant and tasting room and Pursuit Spirits, Rabbit Hole Distillery, and Angel’s Envy are each creating additional tasting rooms and visitor experiences.

Contact business reporter Olivia Evans at [email protected] or on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter at @oliviamevans_ .

IMAGES

World’s Top 10 Dark Tourism Destinations to Visit in 2023
15 Gut-Wrenching Dark Tourism Destinations for 2023
Top 20 Dark Tourism Destination in the World You SHould Visit
The Rise of Dark Tourism [2022 Study]
Dark Tourist
20 Unique Dark Tourism Sites Around The World

VIDEO

Exploring Tragedy through Dark Tourism
Tourist Development Council Meeting 2-21-24

COMMENTS

How 'dark tourism' can pass on the lessons of past tragedies
Following the example of Hiroshima, dark tourism is flourishing in the Tohoku region. In 2022, a record 1.15 million visitors have visited the earthquake and tsunami memorial museums and other facilities in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures affected by the 2011 disaster. The number of visitors, which had been declining due to the spread of COVID-19, has recovered significantly, driven by ...
Dark Tourism: Destinations of Death, Tragedy and the Macabre
170. The Aokigahara forest in Japan, known as the suicide forest, is a dark tourism destination. Ko Sasaki for The New York Times. By Maria Cramer. Oct. 28, 2022. North Korea. East Timor. Nagorno ...
Shadows of History: Navigating the Complexities of Dark Tourism in 2023
Published Nov 5, 2023. + Follow. Dark tourism, also known as thanatourism, refers to travel to places historically associated with death and tragedy. The last few years have seen a steady increase ...
Dark personality traits and dark tourism sites: Analysis of review
Dark tourism is a unique social phenomenon comprising the touristic consumption of places associated with death, tragedy, and suffering ... Liu, & Liu, 2023). Surprisingly, tourism scholarship has mostly ignored this topic, and the present study aims to fill this lacuna in the contemporary research stream. Generally, tourism is associated with ...
Gothic getaways: the rise and evolution of 'dark tourism' festivals
Published: October 25, 2023 11:48am EDT. Luisa Golz, Technological University of the Shannon. ... One of the better known "dark tourism" festivals is the Whitby Goth Weekend, ...
Progress and prospects for dark tourism research
This paper aims to identify the co-authors of dark tourism, influential articles and journals, hot topics, research deficiencies and future research directions. Based on the literature records from 2002 to 2022 in the core database of Web of Science, a comprehensive review of dark tourism research is conducted.
Environmental disasters and 'dark' tourism: The modern-day ghost towns
While the pursuit of dark tourism, which the Institute defines as "tourist sites of death, disaster, or the seemingly macabre," can raise ethical questions, Stone ventures to say that such touristic curiosity can actually be beneficial. ... As of October 2023, all but four of Isle de Jean Charles's original families have relocated there ...
A Broaden-and-Build Theoretical Perspective on Dark Tourism Visitors
Emotions are at the epicenter of dark tourism, where visitors are confronted with topics relating to death and suffering and experience heightened emotional responses. Using the Broaden-and-Build model as a theoretical lens, we aim to examine the process through which visitors' unpleasant emotions can transform into positive ones at a dark ...
Demystifying dark tourism to develop a future agenda for research: a
This study aims to conduct a systematic review of the literature on dark tourism to summarize the multiple studies under one paper and identify the latest trends that have influenced dark tourism. The paper uses various techniques of bibliometrics through the open-source R-based bibliometric tool and VOS viewer 1.6.18, along with the TCCM ...
Dark Tourism Market Opportunities' and Forecast, 2024 to 2034
The dark tourism market is expected to be valued at US$ 31.89 billion in 2024. The dark tourism is predicted to rise at a sluggish CAGR of 2.5% from 2024 to 2034. The global market is anticipated to reach US$ 40.82 billion by 2034. Attributes. Key Insights.
Dark Tourism and Social Mobilization: Transforming Travelers After
Dark tourism can be defined as "visiting sites, attractions or events. . . linked in one way or another with death, suffering, violence or disaster" (Sharpley and Stone 2009, 4).Dark tourism is conceived as a spectrum of experiences moving from the darkest pole centering on a set of profound experiences that are tied to death and mortality to the lighter shade of the spectrum dealing with ...
Dark Tourists
A Traveler's Guide to Dark Tourism. Exploring the World's Dark & Unusual Travel Destinations. Spac Prison: Albania's Dark Tourism Destination Reveals a Haunting History. November 17, 2023 June 26, 2023. Nestled within the picturesque mountains of Albania, SPAÇ Prison stands as a chilling reminder of the country's tumultuous past. Once a ...
Environmental disasters and 'dark' tourism: The modern-day ghost towns
Communities along coastal Louisiana have been particularly devastated by climate change's sea level rise, coastal erosion and battering storms and hurricanes. Isle de Jean Charles, an island in ...
Dark tourism in the Philippine context: Indicators, motivations, and
Moreover, in the study of Light (Light, 2017), he presented changing definitions of the dark tourism and thanatourism used by the different authors in the same field of study of thanatourism (refer to Table 1).Accordingly, dark tourism and thanatourism were defined based on (1) practices (the act of visiting particular types of place); (2) tourism at particular types of place; (3) motivations ...
11 Dark Tourism Destinations for 2023
A dark tourism definition is an experience that allows visitors to journey to a present-day destination and learn about mankind's worst failures, often atrocities against each other. Some examples of dark tourism include, but sadly aren't limited to, incarceration, genocide, ethnic cleansing, assassination, war, or disaster- be it ...
Exploring The Dark Side: The Popularity Of Dark Tourism
Dark tourism has been around for centuries, but the term "dark tourism" was only coined in the 1990s. Some of the most popular dark tourism destinations include Auschwitz, Ground Zero, and the Killing Fields in Cambodia. Dark tourism can be educational and help people understand and appreciate history.
Dark tourism in the Philippine context: Indicators, motivations, and
Business, Sociology. International Hospitality Review. 2021. PurposeThe overall purpose of this study is to utilize the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in combination with four dark tourism constructs (dark experience, engaging entertainment, unique learning…. Expand.
Dark tourism, the holocaust, and well-being: A systematic review
Abstract. Dark tourists experience negative and positive feelings in Holocaust places, suggesting emotional ambivalence. The research question of this study is, "is feeling well-being, as a consequence of dark tourism, a way of banalizing the horror?". The purpose of this study is threefold: to provide an updated systematic literature review ...
Mapping the dark: a bibliometric examination of research in Dark Tourism
Dark Tourism has gained significant attention in recent years due to its complex nature and the eth-ical and moral questions it raises. As a result, researchers and scholars have undertaken various studies ... 2002; magano et al., 2023; soulard et al., 2023; Thurnell-ead, r 2009). other authors distinguish different types of Dark Tourism based ...
Dark Tourist (TV series)
Release. 20 July 2018. ( 2018-07-20) Dark Tourist is a New Zealand documentary series about the phenomenon of dark tourism, presented by journalist David Farrier. [2] [3] The series, which was released by Netflix in 2018, has eight episodes. [1] Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a second season was not made. [4] [5]
Athens Dark Tourism Guide 2023 (updated for 2024)
Welcome to the ultimate dark tourism guide for Athens in 2023! Whether you're a seasoned traveler looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, or an outsider curious about an ancient culture and its hidden secrets, this guide will provide all the information you need. From exploring long-forgotten mine shafts on world-renowned ...
The Rise of Dark Tourism [2022 Study]
Here's a quick rundown of the main arguments against dark tourism: It exploits human suffering: 22%. Dark tourism sites are sometimes presented with a bias, watering down or whitewashing part of history: 18%. It desecrates the sites of human suffering and death: 18%. I just don't understand the appeal: 16%.
Dark Tourism Holidays
Book your Thriller Dark Tourism Holidays for 2023/2024. Discover the history of tragedy and death at unique destinations around the world. [email protected] +44 203 983 9653; Created with Sketch. ... Dark tourism holidays can vary from visiting a light dark destination such as the London Dungeons, where people have fun, to tourists visiting ...
Tourism outlook 2023
Tourism outlook 2023 Global tourism arrivals will increase by 30% in 2023, following growth of 60% in 2022, but will remain below pre-pandemic levels. The economic downturn, sanctions on Russia, and China's zero-covid strategy will delay recovery.
Florida reaches record levels of tourism, Gov. DeSantis says
DeSantis added that the first three months of 2024 yielded more than 40.6 million visitors, the most ever recorded in a single quarter, with a 1.3% increase from the first quarter in 2023.
Benital & Beyond: India's dark sky tourism takes off
Benital & Beyond: India's dark sky tourism takes off India's space tourism aspirations are no longer a pipe dream. ISRO - India's nodal Space Agency is ensuring that Space Tourism and blasting off to Outer Space will become a reality pretty soon. ... On August 23, 2023, rocket scientists of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO ...
Rumble Through the Dark
Rumble Through the Dark was released by Lionsgate on digital formats and in limited theaters on November 3, 2023. Reception. On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 64% of 11 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 5.3/10. References
Louisville tourism record-breaking 2023. How this year could be bigger
Louisville saw a hot streak with tourism in 2023 and hopes to continue the momentum this year as the city gears up for Kentucky Derby 150, the 106th PGA Championship, and major music festivals ...

How 'dark tourism' can pass on the lessons of past tragedies

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Dark Tourism Market Analysis by Phone Booking, Online Booking, and In Person Booking from 2024 to 2034

Dark Tourism Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

Key Trends and Highlights

2019 to 2023 Historical Analysis vs. 2024 to 2034 Market Forecast Projections

Dark Tourism Market Drivers

Dark Tourism Market Challenges

Comparative View of Adjacent Markets

Country-wise Analysis

Historical Exploration Surges the United States Market

Canada Focuses on Exploration of National Narratives

Market Growth in Singapore Reflects on Complex History

Cultural Heritage Exploration Booms China Market

Exploration of Diverse Landscapes Drives India Market Growth

Category-wise Insights

Holocaust Segment to Hold a Significant Share in the Market

Online Booking Segment to Hold a Dominant Share in the Market

Competitive Landscape

Key Coverage of Dark Tourism Market Report

Report Scope

By Booking Channel:

By Tourist Type:

By Tour Type:

By Age Group:

Frequently Asked Questions

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Table of Content

Travel Advertising Market

Trends, Growth, and Opportunity Analysis of Outbound Tourism in the United States

Travel Agency Services Market

Tourism Market

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A Traveler's Guide to Dark Tourism

Spac Prison: Albania’s Dark Tourism Destination Reveals a Haunting History

Visiting Hartheim Castle Memorial Site (Austria)

Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial & Museum (Yerevan)