Volcanoes National Park, established in 1916, occupies an area of 218,000acres stretching from the central highlands to the coast on the south-east side of the island.

Over 2 million visitors a year come to the park to view the volcanoes, one of which, Kilauea, has been constantly erupting since 1983. Viewing volcanoes is safe as long as you strictly follow the guidelines provided by the visitor centre.

The Hawaii National Volcanoes Park represents the results of 70 million years of volcanism, migration, and evolution - processes that thrust a bare land from the sea and clothed it with complex and unique ecosystems and a distinct human culture. Volcanoes National Park encompasses diverse environments that range from sea level to the summit of the earth's most massive volcano, Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. Kilauea, the world's most active volcano, offers scientists insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and visitors views of dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Over half of the park is designated wilderness and provides unusual hiking and camping opportunities. In recognition of its outstanding natural values, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has been honoured as an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site.
 

We Recommend:
Visitor Centre/Exhibits: Kilauea Visitor Centre, located just inside the park entrance, offers visitor information and exhibits. Films and videos are shown in the auditorium throughout the day.

Thomas A. Jaggar Museum, located about three miles from the park entrance, offers earth science displays and features murals depicting Hawaiian culture. An adjacent overlook offers a panoramic view of Kilauea Caldera and Mauna Loa.

Hawaii Natural History Association operates bookstores at both locations with an extensive selection of books, maps, videotapes, slides, and other educational items. Email 'HNHA@Aloha.net' to request a price list.

Trails: Hike the park trails to experience the park's essence and to gain an understanding of the natural and cultural history of Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Day hikes as well as wilderness trips of several days duration are available.

The Kilauea Visitor Centre, Jaggar Museum, Volcano House Hotel, and Volcano Art Centre are wheelchair accessible. Pullouts along Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road afford panoramic views of the park.

For information on accessible pathways, other facilities and programmes, enquire at the visitor centre.

Mauna Loa is the world's largest volcano measuring 14,000 feet above sea level and even more below. Although not currently active, Mauna Loa is noted for its crater rims, since eruptions occur along the volcano sides also, not just at the summit. Located north-west of Kilauea, Mauna Loa is also a place for skiers during the winter season, where at its high altitude snow covers the summit. Hikers can take advantage of staying in the summit cabin, but this must be booked well in advance.

Climate:
The park has distinct climate zones that vary according to elevation. Visitors should be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Weather at the summit of Kilauea (4,000' elevation) fluctuates daily and can be rainy and chilly any time of the year. The coastal plain at the end of Chain of Craters Road is often hot, dry, and windy. Bring rain gear, light sweaters or jackets, sturdy shoes, hats, water bottles, sun glasses and high UV factor sunscreen.

Hiking:
Permits, issued by the Kilauea Visitor Centre for Wilderness hikes, are issued on a first-come basis no earlier than the day before your hike. Stays are limited to 3 nights per site; group size is limited to 8 people. A total of 8 people are allowed per night at the Pu'u 'Ula'ula (Red Hill) cabin, and 12 people at the Mauna Loa cabin. Backpackers to Mauna Loa should be adequately equipped, experienced in wilderness/high altitude trekking, and physically fit.

Some of the recommended Wilderness hikes are physically challenging and can take up to three days. Hikers are advised to check that they have adequate supplies and equipment before setting off. A list of essentials can be obtained at the Visitor Centre or in advance on the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park web site.

The Park also publishes reccommended day hikes for visitors. The Park is approximately two and a half hours drive from Kona and an hour and a half from Hilo to the Kilauea Visitor Centre