Volcanoes National Park, Big Island of Hawaii - home to Kilauea

Hawaii 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.

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