About Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park Flora & Fauna
About 90% of the Hawaiian flora is native to the island and has evolved in solidarity away from the world. AmaIng scenery awaits the tourists on their trip to the Volcanoes National Park, such as the bright flowers of ʻōhiʻa trees, the tree fern - giant hāpu, and even the endangered Mauna Loa. For a very long time the flora of this region had survived and adapted to a life without any plant eating mammals. However today the place is overrun by invasive wildlife which has disrupted the harmonious balance of its stunning flora. From shrubs and bushes to tall fern trees - tourists will be able to explore the lush green wilderness of this region upon their visit.
The Volcanoes National Park is home to some of the most amazing and beautiful native Hawaiian species. From feathery birds to insects to mammals, the fauna in this region has evolved to its volcanic surroundings. Visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of some of the endangered or endemic birds like the nēnē - Hawaiian Goose, native honeycreepers, Hawaiian petrel. In addition to this wide variety of birds, tourists will also come across an impressive array of spiders and insects which have evolved in a genetic isolation. While the ecosystem of Hawaii is quite isolated and unique, with time it has been overcome by invasive animals such as pigs, goats, fire ants, mongooses, etc that create a major impact on the biodiversity.
Volcanoes National Park Tour Packages
This wonderful Volcanoes National Park tour includes a guided tour through nearby regions of the two active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. In addition to this, the tour also features attractions like the Devastation Trail, Rainbow Falls, and more. Tourists get to explore the Chain of Craters Road and visit the Kilauea visitors ce Tere where they learn about the biological and cultural heritage of the region.
Inclusions:
- Round trip transfers to and from the hotel.
- Tickets to Big Island and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- English speaking professional guide
Price: US $ 190-250
This day tour guarantees an exciting time for the visitors in the hiking trails of the Volcanoes National Park. Tourists are also able to get as close as possible to the Kilauea Caldera eruption - an event that changes the surrounding region of the island. During the tour they can also enjoy the exotic and unique wildlife of the national park such as Smiling Face Spiders, yellow Amakihi, and the red Apapane.
Inclusions:
- Entry fees of the National Park
- A professional guide
- Lunch and beverages during the day trip
- Pick up and drop off services
Price: US $235-300
This adventurous e-bike tour includes cycling through the region that is surrounding the volcanic eruptions. During the tour visitors will be able to get up close to the Kilauea Volcano as they experience the steam and heat that surrounds it. Enjoying the lava filled region, visitors also take a tour through the lush wilderness of the Hawaiian region which houses many amazing native flora and fauna.
Inclusions:
- Comfort Hybrid E-bike
- Bike Lock
- Bike Bag
- Helmet for safety on the E-bike
- Safety lessons and instructions before the bike ride
Price: US $130-200
Another amazing experience to enjoy during a visit to beautiful slams of Hawaii, this tour takes visitors through various attractions in addition to the amazing Volcanoes National Park. Along with the stunning wilderness and lava trails of the national park, the visitors also make stops at Waipio Valley viewpoint, Akaka waterfall and Rainbow waterfall, Punalu’s Beach, and the Kona Coffee Farm in Kealakekua Bay.
Inclusions:
- Park admission tickets and jackets
- Professional English speaking guide
- Audio tour guide
- Lunch, snacks and drinks are included
- Pick up service from hotel
Price: US $200-300
A thrilling adventure for tourists who wish to explore the tropical island of Hawaii. This tour package includes various attractions such as the volcanoes national Park, Rainbow waterfall, Kilauea Volcano, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm, and Kilauea Iki Crater. This full day trip will take the visitors through the lush green wilderness and to the trails surrounding the volcanic eruptions of the Volcanoes national park.
Inclusions:
- A professional guide
- Meals and beverages during the day tour
- Sightseeing stops with the guide
Price: US $ 270-300
A full day of the Big island with a private tour awaits the visitors in this package. The tour package includes visits to the scenic waterfalls like Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls and the beautiful coast of Hamakua. In addition to these amazing locations, the tourists explore the stunning and adventurous Volcanoes National Park. The package also includes a picnic style lunch at the national park and a stunning coffee experience at an authentic Kona coffee farm.
Inclusions
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- National park fees
- Professional guide
- Professionally clicked and edited photographs
- Transportation
- Osmosis filtered local water
Price: US $ 2500-2800
Things to Do at Volcanoes National Park
The Volcanoes National Park has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking on various scenic and adventure trails. The National Park houses great trails like crater rim trail, Mauna ulu trail, Keanakākoʻi Crater, and more. Walking and hiking near the rough volcanic terrain is an adventurous thrilling activity that attracts thousands of adrenaline junkies to the Big island.
Price: US $ 55-500
For more adventure and thrill, visitors will find several backcountry hiking trails that are less crowded than the usual ones. These backcountry hikes are a popular destination for the hearty wilderness hikers, as they make their way through exploded lava fields and grass. Some of these trails are also closed or facing towards the shore and others are high elevation hikes that are nestled close to the active volcanoes.
Price: USD 10-15 (10 people for 7 nights)
The Volcanoes National Park has 2 campgrounds where visitors can enjoy the beautiful wilderness and explore the flora and fauna of this unique terrain. The Nāmakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki campsites provide unique experiences to the visitors with amenities like picnic tables, barbecues, campfire pits and more. The Nāmakanipaio has more facilities as compared to the Kulanaokuaiki, where the experience is more thrilling and closer to the wilderness.
Location: Nāmakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki campgrounds
Namakani Paio Campgrounds and Cabin: USD 40-60
Halepe Shelter: The stay here is free but you can only stay for a period of 3 days
This scenic route of Crater Rim Drive is best covered by a two wheel vehicle as tourists feel the fresh air and lush green landscapes from up close. There are many scenic stops along the road as visitors enjoy the native flora of this Hawaiian national park. Visitors can make stops at the Uēkahuna - an important site that proudly displays native Hawaiian rituals and cultural practices. In addition to this they can also stop at Kīlauea Overlook, Steaming Bluff, Sulphur Banks, and Nāhuku.
Since the National Park is home to two active volcanoes, some of the major attractions of this place are natural landscapes carved by lava flow and craters that have been created throughout the island. Some of the sites along the Chain of craters road include cultural relics and carvings that provide insight into the native Hawaiian cultures. Chain of craters road is a stunning drive which is surrounded by exceptionally scenic views.
The Volcanoes National Park houses a majority of native flora and fauna, which has evolved for millions of years to survive on its own without interference from the outside world. Even though lately this ecological balance has been disturbed, the national park still maintains stunning landscapes and wildlife to be explored. It is however advised to the tourists to be cautious and respectful of the native flora and fauna, causing them no harm.
Lodges and Camps in Volcanoes National Park
This historical stay inside the premises of the Volcanoes National Park has 33 guest rooms, 10 cabins and 16 campsites. The lodging provides an incredible view of the summit of Kilauea and is known for its rich cultural legacy amidst visitors from all over the globe. Just a short walk from the Crater Rim Drive, this iconic lodging provides a warm Hawaiian hospitality.
Location: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, 1 Crater Rim Drive, Pāhoa, HI 96718, United States
Amenities:
- Signature Bath
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- In room safe
- Snack Bar
- Lounge
- Gift shop
- Daily housekeeping services
Price: US $ 320-400
This scenic and wonderful location is situated close to the south of the Hilo Highway. This large open area is surrounded by stunning tall eucalyptus trees and visitors will also be able to see some native trees like the ōhi’a trees. Visitors can enjoy picnics and campfires with their loved ones. In addition to the normal tents provided, the Hawaii volcanoes lodge company also provides tourists with the option of rustic cabins for their trip.
Location: Volcano, HI 96785, United States
Amenities:
- Picnic tables outside the cabins
- Outdoor barbecue grills
- Water access
- Outdoor campfire pit
Price: US $15-20
Situated about 5 miles down the Hilina Pali Road, this campsite is at a 2700m elevation and offers a more raw camping experience. This location offers tents on a first come basis and includes picnic tables and pad tents for the experience. The campsite does not have water access nor does it allow fire pits, and has vault type toilets.
Location: Pāhoa, HI 96778, United States
Amenities:
- Pad tents
- Picnic tables
- Vault type toilets
Price: US $10-20
This comfy and beautiful bed & breakfast is located under the giant canopy of fern trees and Ohia trees. Nestled amidst the native Hawaiian rainforest, the cottages are surrounded by lush green wonders and have a cozy decor. This place is perfect for couples who wish to enjoy a secluded time amidst nature.
Amenities:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Smoke free property
- Free breakfast
- Soaking tub and outdoor shower
Price: US $425-500
Volcano Inn: Situated right near the Volcanoes National Park, this relaxing stay is a great place to enjoy the trip to Big Island. The rooms of this homely and cozy stay have big windows that offer the view of the lush Hawaiian Rainforest. Visitors will get to enjoy island style breakfast during their visit and relax in rainforest hot tubs.
Location: 19-3820 Old Volcano Road, PO Box 963, Volcano HI 96785-0963
Amenities:
- Rainforest garden
- Rainforest Hot Tub
- Island style breakfast
- High speed Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Lanai overlooking the rainforest
Price: US $159-200
This amazing lodge in the volcano village is situated close to the volcanoes national park, so much so that every day is open with new possibilities for the tourists. Take a hike through the rocky lava valley or watch craters from the rims, totally fuelled up from the delicious flavors served at the Kilauea lodge. They also have a tropical garden where visitors can enjoy the local flora and fauna without having to wander deep into the rainforest.
Location: 19-3948 Old Volcano Road Volcano Village, HI
Amenities:
- Central heating system
- Free Wi-Fi
- Tropical garden
- Garden view gazebos
- Outdoor jungle jacuzzi
- Gift shop
Price: US $300-400
Plan Your Visit to Volcanoes National Park
- How to Reach
By Car/Taxi: The Volcanoes National Park is situated in the South East area of the island. The highways of the island run close to the national Park and therefore visitors can travel from major points of the island to the park via rental cars.
- By Air: The nearest airport to the national park is the Kigali airport which is only a 2 hours drive from the Volcanoes National Park.
- Private Helicopter Transfers: you can also take the helicopter transfer services from the Kigali airport to the National Park. The helicopter airstrip is only a 25 minutes drive to the National Park headquarters.
- Best Time to Visit
The Best time to visit the Volcanoes National Park is between June and mid September during the dry months as the trails during these months are not quite as difficult as it becomes during the winter months and you can explore the Volcanoes National Park much more efficiently. You can also plan your visit during the months of November to March as this time of the year is warm and perfect for a tropical vacation with frequent rains and challenging trekking routes.
Tourists should pack comfortable loose clothes as the weather is often warmer since the island is located near to the equator. Pack comfortable shoes that will make it easier to walk on the rocky terrain for longer hours if visitors wish to hike. Also, if it's the rainy season keep a light waterproof jacket to cover yourself when outdoors. If you are planning to visit during the winter months from June to September, carry layers of thermals to keep you warm as you hike or go on enjoying activities in the park.
Volcanic eruptions are hazardous and ever changing, therefore, it is best to keep the current situation in mind and follow marked trails upon visit.
The atmosphere around the volcanic eruptions is concentrated with sulfur dioxide, which can cause adverse side effects upon exposure for longer periods of time. Therefore avoid going too close to the eruptions.
Always drive slowly and safely as the terrain surrounding the volcano region is rough.
If traveling in the rainy season, carry a light rain jacket and sturdy shoes for hiking.
FAQ's of
What activities can we do at Volcanoes National Park camps?
Tourists who decide to camp at the Volcanoes National Park camps can indulge in various activities. You can choose to enjoy day hikes through the volcanic terrain and enjoy exploring it up close. Hiking through the 123,000 acres of wilderness that provides hikers with great views and insight of the geological landscape is another amazing option. Visitors can take the crater rim scenic drive tour around the summit of Kilauea or explore the Kahuku Unit.
How many days do you need in Volcanoes National Park?
Tourists can enjoy this scenic park on a day trip while they are staying on an island nearby. However, if the visitors like to explore the wilderness and hiking they should definitely plan a stay for at least 2-3 days.
What is the best time of year to visit the Volcanoes National Park?
The best time to visit the Volcanoes national park is during the dry season from June through September as the weather is the most pleasant during these months and you can explore the fascinating beauty of the park in a much more delightful way. Also the hiking is easier during these months and you can get a chance to witness some rare to see animals along your trail.
What facilities will I get in Volcanoes National Park camps?
The Volcanoes National Park Nāmakanipaio Campground provides visitors with various facilities like open ground for walks and hiking. In addition to this the camp also has picnic tables, barbecue grills and outdoor fire pits. The Kulanaokuaiki Campground also has a general store for the visitors to get groceries and gas.
Which are the best places to visit in Volcanoes National Park?
You will find several scenic trails and hiking routes amidst the wilderness of the Volcanoes National park. In addition to the trails, you can also visit the Kilauea Volcano, Nahuku - Thurston Lava Tube, Chain of Craters Road, Crater Rim Drive, Steam Vents among the many stunning locations.