Several large fires impacted the Los Angeles region, significantly affecting public life and tourism. The areas most affected include Pacific Palisades/Malibu, where the Palisades Fire is occurring, and Pasadena/Altadena, which is experiencing the Eaton Fire. Although this is not the peak travel season for Los Angeles, the situation remains vital for travelers. Experts recommend that vacationers stay informed about the current conditions and avoid the affected areas if possible.
The situation on the ground is very dynamic, with new fires and evacuations potentially occurring at any time. Additionally, there are warnings of possible power outages in areas not directly affected by the fires in Los Angeles.
The following information applies to package holidaymakers: a trip could be canceled free of charge if "unavoidable, extraordinary circumstances" arise at your holiday destination or in its immediate vicinity that significantly impact the trip. For instance, forest fires can be considered in such circumstances, mainly if your trip is imminent and the fires specifically affect the region. Additionally, if the Foreign Office issues a travel warning, you are eligible for free cancellation.
For individual travelers, there is no obligation to pay for already booked services, such as accommodation or flights, if these cannot be provided due to the fires—for example, in areas closed to tourists. However, if the accommodation is still accessible and there is no immediate danger to travelers, any refund will depend on the provider's discretion. It is important to note that many hotels in the region may be occupied by evacuees, which could make alternative accommodation necessary.
Travelers to the USA should avoid the affected areas in Los Angeles and stay updated on the situation through sources like the Los Angeles Fire Department or specialized apps. Additionally, there may be health risks associated with smoke exposure, particularly for vulnerable groups. It is advisable to prepare an emergency bag and respiratory masks.
Some well-known attractions in the Los Angeles region are affected by the fires in Los Angeles either directly or indirectly:
Pacific Coast Highway (PCH): The highway is closed between Santa Monica and Malibu, making access to coastal attractions difficult.
Topanga State Park and Will Rogers State Historic Park: Both parks are severely affected and inaccessible.
Hollywood Hills: Roads above the Hollywood Hills have been evacuated, limiting access to popular viewing areas.
Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland: These attractions are open, but smoke and poor air quality may impact the visitor experience.
Getty Villa: The museum remains closed for the time being due to its proximity to the fires.
Griffith Observatory and Los Angeles Zoo: Both facilities are temporarily closed.
The tourism organization Visit California is calling on travelers to support Los Angeles after the devastating wildfires through visits and targeted help. The fires, which killed at least 27 people, caused severe damage, but more than 98 percent of Los Angeles County was outside the affected areas, the state's tourism advertisers emphasize. A map published by Visit California shows where the most famous sights are compared to the fire areas to help travelers find their way around.