7 Essential Dark Travel Tips You Need to Know

If you have stumbled across this blog post, then I can assume you are already familiar with the term dark tourism, but if not – dark travel refers to the specific places that are linked to tragedy, death, or suffering. While I offered a few tips in that blog post, I think it bears further exploration to lay out the rules of the road, so to speak.

Dark travel offers a lens approach to the world and, in my opinion, can make you a more empathetic, thoughtful person, but only if you are visiting for the right reasons and are respectful and safe. Whether you are visiting a memorial or a macabre museum, here are 7 essential dark travel tips you need to know:

Research Thoroughly Before You Visit

Even if I go to a "mainstream" destination, I always research the area before I visit. This gesture should be twice as important for dark tourism destinations. Be sure you understand the history and the context of the place you visit. For example, if this is a site of a battleground or mass tragedy, you should understand the historical significance of why this occurred and what impact it has had on the locals.

Not only will this knowledge enhance your understanding of the area, but being informed will also underline your respect for what occurred and why. Arming yourself with historical knowledge can also help you locate off-the-beaten-path spots you may want to visit.

Be Aware of Local Customs and Regulations

This tip is a big one because each location will have its own customs and traditions, especially when it comes to reverence of death. For example, for some memorial sites, it is customary to leave coins on the gravestone of the deceased, or in the case when a child has passed, little toys or stuffed animals. However, some cemeteries and areas are strictly against this act, no matter how well-intentioned you might be.

There are also various rules to protect the site you are visiting and its legacy. For example, there could be restrictions on photography, limitations on walking paths, noise levels, etc. Be sure to understand the local customs and regulations of the place you are visiting.

Approach With Respect, Not Sheer Spectacle

Dark tourism gets an extremely bad rap because there have been too many reports of travelers disrespecting the area – from taking photos featuring dead bodies (not going to name anyone, but you know what famous YouTuber I'm talking about) to outright destruction of property. It's embarrassing for the community, but more so, you can get yourself in trouble – from getting kicked out to facing very real consequences.

I'm also convinced you are going to open yourself up to a well-deserved haunting. No matter what dark spot you travel to, focus on being present and reflective of this one-in-lifetime moment instead of your social media engagement. You should allow yourself to feel what you need to feel while you are in such a solemn, thought-provoking place, so take a moment to take it all in.

Support Ethical Dark Tourism Practices

I have mentioned this before on my blog, but there are some places I personally will not go to because not all dark tourism spots are created equal. Some dark tourist spots are strictly forbidden or are active conflict zones or sites where there is still ongoing human suffering. I do not recommend going to these places, obviously, because they are disrespectful and short-sighted, but again, some of these sites can be incredibly dangerous.

Ethical dark tourism means you go to the places you are allowed to go and avoid the places you are not. Try to focus on sites that promote education, remembrance, and preservation as opposed to sites that either sensationalize the tragedy or actively ask you to not come.

Travel with a Knowledgeable Guide for Deeper Context

When possible, I always advise you to travel with an expert guide when visiting more complex or dangerous dark tourism destinations, such as conflict zones, areas devastated by natural disasters, or locations with ongoing health threats, like Chornobyl. In addition to offering the historical background, an informed guide can ensure that you are visiting the place courteously and safely.

Not only do guides speak the native language if it is different than your own, but they can also provide in-depth knowledge, which may include wayward and less traveled paths. Be sure that you are traveling with an expert, legitimate guide, and this is where additional research comes in handy.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings 

As mentioned, some of these dark sites have very real hazards and threats. This can be because of the physical dangers, such as unstable ruins, treacherous terrain, or radiation risks. Other dark sites are dangerous because of crime in the area or the presence of animal predators.

I cannot stress this enough – always be aware of your surroundings! Wear appropriate clothing, take necessary precautions, and if you do not have a guide, then brush up on the local laws, crime stats, and places you should/shouldn't go. I do not recommend solo travel for some areas, so it is always good to take a buddy or two.

Reflect on Your Experience 

I want to reiterate again – dark travel is emotionally challenging, as many sites can have the lingering effects on human tragedy – whether because it is an outright memorial where the deceased are buried, or because of the impact it has had on the local area.

It is okay to not feel okay after a dark travel journey. In fact, one of the reasons why I enjoy dark traveling is because it allows me to reflect on my own life. In many ways, I think it underlines the importance of human connection and respect. Reflect on your experience by journaling, blogging, or opening a dialogue with fellow travelers who have shared similar experiences. These acts will help you process everything you have learned and saw on your journey.

Exploring the Darker Side of the World

Dark travel is a great way to connect with the past, even with parts of humanity that are grim and ugly. By following these seven tips, you can travel in a way that respects the victims of the tragedies you're learning about and pays tribute to those most impacted by the events.  

Remember to always treat these locations with reverence and mindfulness and that some places are best left alone. Be sure to follow my other travel adventures and share your stories and tales of dark travel.

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