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Hawaii

A Volcanic Exploration: Hiking on Hawai'i's “Big Island”

Program No. 24566RJ
Hike among the impressive volcanoes and varied landscapes of the island of Hawai'i while learning about its rich culture, geology and wildlife.

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8 days
7 nights
19 meals
7B 5L 7D
3
Kilauea Caldera Hike
Volcanoes National Park (Volcano), HI
4
Kilauea Iki Hike, Chain of Craters Road
Volcanoes National Park (Volcano), HI
7
Waterfall Hike in Kohala
Kona, Big Island of Hawaii
8
Program Concludes
Kona, Big Island of Hawaii
View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Hawai'i is home to unique microclimates, incredible geology and fascinating wildlife — get up close and learn about this amazing place by hiking Hawai'i’s “Big Island.” Move from sea level rainforests to the Kilauea Volcano, where you’ll walk among dense tropical ferns, native ohia trees and lava deserts, before departing for the drier coast. Experience the heat of subsurface magma and the picturesque beauty of a waterfall in the Kohala mountains, all while learning from geologists and other experts about these astounding natural wonders and how the landscape is deeply intertwined with native Hawaiian culture and spiritual beliefs.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Daily hiking between 2 and 5 miles, with one day of 7 miles. Daily elevation gains up to 1,100 ft. Walking/hiking along irregular forest trails and through lava fields in varying weather conditions. Elevations up to 4,100 ft.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Hike along the caldera of Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
  • Learn about petroglyphs, wildlife and Hawaiian history as you hike throughout the island.
  • Stay at Kilauea Military Camp, located within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Will McGough
Will McGough has spent the better part of the last decade seeing the world as a travel writer. His contributions have appeared in many magazines and online publications, including Alaska Airlines Magazine, AFAR, Conde Nast and Forbes. In 2017, he was the Hawaii Ecotourism Association’s Travel Writer of the Year for his local travel publication, Wake and Wander Hawaii. Will graduated from Virginia Tech and now calls the windward side of Oahu home. When traveling, he enjoys a combination of culture, adventure, and scenic beauty.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Will McGough
Will McGough View biography
Will McGough has spent the better part of the last decade seeing the world as a travel writer. His contributions have appeared in many magazines and online publications, including Alaska Airlines Magazine, AFAR, Conde Nast and Forbes. In 2017, he was the Hawaii Ecotourism Association’s Travel Writer of the Year for his local travel publication, Wake and Wander Hawaii. Will graduated from Virginia Tech and now calls the windward side of Oahu home. When traveling, he enjoys a combination of culture, adventure, and scenic beauty.
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