HAWAI’I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK IN BIG ISLAND

Visit Two of Earthʻs Most Active Volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tours Kīlauea and Mauna Loa Volcanoes Facts & Tips Kīlauea Visitor Center Chain of Craters Hikes Directions

BIG ISLAND VOLCANOES

Witness the dynamic formation of Hawai’i at Volcanoes National Park, home to the active Mauna Loa and Kīlauea.

Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire, pulled the Hawaiian Islands up from a weak spot in the oceanic plate millions of years ago. This incredible island chain is recognized as a marvel of nature, continuously expanding as Pele’s volcanoes continue to erupt today.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the Big Island’s five volcanoes, including massive Mauna Loa and the ever-active Kīlauea volcano. The diversity of natural environments encompassed within the park draws researchers and visitors alike to learn how the islands of Hawai’i were created and to gaze upon these dramatic volcanic landscapes.

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Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Must-See & Do

Unmissable Highlights of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park:

Kilauea Volcano
Marvel at the awe-inspiring Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes
Mauna Loa
Witness the grandeur of Mauna Loa, Earth’s largest subaerial volcano
Visitor Center
Start at the Kilauea Visitor Center for insights into the park’s volcanic wonders
Nahuku Tube
Explore Nahuku, a fascinating 500-year-old lava tube offering a unique glimpse into volcanic activity
Craters Road
Journey along the Chain of Craters Road, showcasing stunning volcanic landscapes and formations
Park Hikes
Embark on diverse hikes, each revealing different aspects of the park’s rich geological and natural beauty

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tours

Within the boundaries of the park there are miles and miles of hiking trails and scenic drives that traverse scalded landscapes, deserts, rainforests, volcanic craters, and the sea cliffs where flowing lava finally found an outlet into the sea. Volcano Tours operates many choices for tours within the park that are sure to fulfill all of your group’s desires. Let us free you from the hassle of driving, coordinating what to do, and be your personal concierge and guide! Tailor the itinerary of your tour to get the ultimate experience. Learn about the culture, history, and diverse natural environments of the park from our knowledgeable guides.

Basic Facts & Tips

Historical Opening & Size
Established on August 1, 1916, the park covers about 323,431 acres.
Visitation & Fees
Attracting around 2 million visitors annually, entrance fees are $30 per vehicle and $15 for pedestrians/bicyclists, valid for 7 days.
Climate & Preparation
The park’s higher elevation results in temperatures 12-15 degrees cooler than the coast, with frequent rain, so dress warmly and bring rain gear.
Safety & Amenities
Wear sturdy shoes and long pants for protection against sharp lava rock; note that there’s no water, food, or fuel along Chain of Craters Road.
Park Etiquette
To ensure a smooth visit, stay on marked routes, heed warning signs, check the park website for current conditions, and aim to arrive early to avoid crowds.

Kīlauea and Mauna Loa Volcanoes

Hosting two of the worldʻs most active volcanoes, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park extends 333,259 acres from the summit of Mauna Loa down to where the Kīlauea volcano flows into the sea.

A visit to the park is one of the best ways to gain an intimate appreciation for the sheer power that volcanoes can produce – a testament to the primal forces of creation and destruction. The park was designated a World Heritage Site in 1987 for its importance in Hawaiian cultural history and the geological narrative of the islands.

In fact, the incredible Mauna Loa volcano is considered to be the largest volcano on Earth in terms of mass and volume (about 19,000 cubic miles), and has been erupting for the last 700,000 years. Not to be overshadowed, Kīlauea reached international headlines in 2018 for its massive rivers of lava that destroyed entire neighborhoods on route to the sea.

Massive plumes of ash were rocketed into the air until one day, the craterʻs summit suddenly collapsed 2,000 feet, and activity subsided for the first time in 35 years. The environment of the Big Island is ever-changing, and the accessibility of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is always subject to the whim of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes.

Kīlauea Visitor Center

Kilauea Visitor Center Interior

Make your first stop at the Kīlauea Visitor Center (open daily, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm) for a fantastic introduction to one of Americaʻs best national parks. Here you’ll be able to pick up a park map, find out which sites are open, and get a report on current volcanic activity in the park. Speak with one of the rangers in the visitorʻs center to arrange a guided tour or get suggestions on the best hikes for your groups capabilities and desires. There is also a 25-minute film that serves as a great introduction to the diverse environments, flora and fauna, and exciting volcanic history of the park. Opening hours are subject to change and can be found on the park website.

Nahuku – 500-Year Old Lava Tube

nahuku thurston lava tube

Until the creation of the National Park in 1916, this lava tube was known for 400 years as Nāhuku. It contained incredible formations that once hung from the ceiling. These “lava drippings” were harvested over the years by souvenir collectors after Lorrin Thurston “rediscovered” and publicized the location as part of his campaign to create a national park around his newly purchased Volcano House, a hotel built along the crater of Kīlauea which is situated nearby.

This lava tube, almost 600 feet in length and at points more than 20 feet tall and is lit from 10 am to 8 pm so you can walk through the entire length without issue. It’s accessible at the end of a short trail from the parking lot. It’s a great spot for families. Although caves look lifeless, there is a fragile ecosystem with lots of living organisms in the roots, walls, and in rock piles. Please watch what you touch while in the cave.

Chain of Craters

Drive the stunning Chain of Craters Road past many scenic overlooks and volcanic craters to the ocean, where fresh lava has covered the road and overflowed into the sea. This 18.8-mile drive has continued to grow since its inception as lava continues to flow from Kīlauea and increase the size of the park. The road begins 3.3 miles south of the Kīlauea Visitor Center, just off of Crater Rim Drive.

There are many stops along this drive to get out and marvel at the incredible diversity within this park. Walk over the desolate lava fields of Mau Loa o Mauna Ulu that resemble the surface of Mars. Make a stop or even enjoy a picnic lunch at the Kealakomo Overlook with its massive vista over the eastern lava flow and the Pacific Ocean. Descend to sea level to hike along the boardwalk trail to the Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs, where over 23,000 images are etched into the rock by ancient Hawaiians. Along this rugged coastline, torrential waves crash along the volcanic sea cliffs and send ocean spray dozens of feet high into the air. However, these sea cliffs are notoriously unstable, so it is advised not to venture too close to the edge!

Hikes

Nowhere else can you find such a diverse spread of other-worldly environments. Stop in the Kīlauea Visitor Center when you arrive to discover which hikes are open and appropriate for your group. There are also daily ranger-led hikes. Here are a few of our favorite day hikes in the park:

Hikers in Volcanoes National Park pause at the trail to admire the crater views

Kilauea Iki Lookout Parking Lot Big Island

Kilauea Iki Crater Floor Fern

Kilauea Iki Lookout Visitors Big Island

Kīlauea Iki Trail

Descend through the rainforest to walk upon the solidified Kīlauea Iki Crater lava lake. Peer into the massive steam vent that created this lake in 1959.

Difficulty: Moderate; 400ft descent/ascent is steep and rocky
Distance: 4 miles (2-3 hrs)
Trailhead: Kīlauea Iki parking lot on Crater Rim Drive

Kilauea Crater Rim Road

From the steam vents overlook you can see Kilauea's caldera

The rim trail at Kilauea affords expansive views

A couple hike the crater rim trail of Kilauea

Trail signs in the park show what is open and what is not

A visitor stands at an overlook of a Hawaiian volcanic caldera

Crater Rim Trail

Circle around the caldera of Kīlaueaʻs summit to view torrents of volcanic steam and gas. This caldera is said to be the home of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Certain sections of the trail are currently closed.

Difficulty: Easy; 4,000ft trailhead elevation
Distance: Varies
Trailhead: many access points along Crater Rim Drive

The crater rim trail leads to several other popular spots

Volcanic Gases Rich In Carbon Dioxide and SulfurDioxide And Hydrogen

This national park contains many differing climate zones

Haʻakulamanu (Sulphur Banks) Trail

Explore this unique volcanic thermal area where volcanic gasses and steam flow out of the ground. Sulfuric mineral deposits abound, famous for their exquisite colors and the distinct smell of rotten eggs.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.2 mile round trip
Trailhead: Just beyond the Volcano Art Center Gallery

Directions To The Park

Located 45 minutes southwest of Hilo, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park can be reached from Hawai’i Belt Road. From Kona, you should allow about 2.5-3 hours of driving time each way. The main entrance to the park stays open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Kīlauea Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Crater Rim Drive. You’ll find the turn-off between the 28 and 29-mile markers off Highway 11 (Hawai’i Belt Road). The Chain of Craters Road begins another 3.3 miles south of the visitor center and continues south to the coast. Consider staying near or within the park to take advantage of the parkʻs diversity, as there are plenty of activities to occupy a full day of exploration or even multiple days.

FAQs About Hawai’i Volcano National Park

What activities can I enjoy during my visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

There are limitless sights to explore during your visit here! From breathtaking lava fields and native rainforests to distinctive geological formations such as sea arches - there's something for everyone! And don't forget about your 45-minute helicopter ride over Kilauea Caldera and an evening hike to see the volcanoes glow as close as possible.
How much time do I have for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

You will have two days dedicated to discovering this unique landscape so you can experience it all in ultimate comfort with a private guide.
Does Mauna Loa Have Lava Flow?

On Sunday, November 27, 2022, Mauna Loa erupted for the first time since 1984. That eruption has stopped for now. To follow volcano updates, please see the Mauna Loa Eruption page.
Will there be many photo opportunities?

Yes, there are many photo opportunities including waterfalls, religious, cultural and biological points of interest (flora and fauna).
What should I bring with me?

In addition to extra layers of clothing, some of our other recommended items are a mask, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You may also bring a backpack with you that will be stored in the vehicle. This can easily accommodate any items you might need and can also store additional clothing layers or other purchases you make on the road.

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Wide Selection Of Volcano Tours

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