Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

What do you get when you mix volcanism, migration, and evolution together over 70 million years? Exotic rainforests, unique rock transformations, an ever-changing landscape, and some of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mount Kilauea and Mauna Loa? You’ll find all of these at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, encapsulating some of the greatest natural wonders of the world.

There's so much to see at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! Witness unique Volcanic Steam Vents, visit the Halema'uma'u Crater Overlook, Kilauea Iki Overlook, and the Jaggar Museum. If you're looking for ancient Hawaiian rock carvings, visit the Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs. (Photo: eliduke/Flickr)

History

In the 1840s, local businessmen established a series of hotels at the edge of what is now the national park. Less than a century before that, a massive eruption killed a number of Hawaiians in the area. Their footprints can still be seen in the hardened ash and lava at what is called the 1790 Footprints. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was officially established in 1916.

• How Long We're Here: About 3 hours total.
• Location: 30 miles from Hilo town, Southeast Big Island, Hawaii.
• Amenities: Food & drink, restrooms, gift shop, picture opportunities.
• Insider Tip: Bring a light jacket, comfortable shoes, water, and a camera!
• Fun Fact: A'a lava is sharp and dangerous, while Pahoehoe is smooth and easy to walk over.
• What To Expect: Crater Rim Drive; Kilauea Caldera; Jaggar Museum; Thurston Lava Tube and more.

• One-Day Hawaii Volcano Eco-Adventure from Oahu Tour
  From: Oahu
  $299.99Go
• Ultimate Hawaii Experience Package Tour
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  $479.99Go
• One-Day Hawaii Volcano Evening Eco-Adventure from Kauai Tour
  From: Kauai
  $329.99Go
• One-Day Hawaii Volcano Evening Eco-Adventure from Maui Tour
  From: Maui
  $329.99Go
• Big Island Hawaii Volcano Evening Eco-Adventure Tour
  From: Big Island
  $119.99Go