By now, you know that the scenery and sites of Hawaii are amazing, and the beauty of the islands is unmatched. However, there is one place in Hawaii that cannot be compared, and that goes for anywhere in the world. Mt. Kilauea, the volcano on the Big Island is a place that brings to life the creation of the Hawaiian Islands, and provides visitors with a place to witness the creation of the newest land on Earth.
In the southwest corner of the island is one of 5 volcanoes that make up the youngest Hawaiian Island. Kilauea is a shield volcano that has been erupting continuously since January 1983. In that time more than 50 square miles of new land have been added to the island, and that total grows each and every day, though most of the new land is still beneath the surface of the ocean.
There are many amazing sites to see on Kilauea, including extinct lava tubes that visitors can walk through, steam vents, museums, and the lookout over Halema’uma’u Crater, offering a glimpse into the depths of the Earth. When the activity is high, a lava lake often forms inside the crater, and a firey show can be seen from the Jaggar Museum, overlooking the crater.
The boundaries of Kilauea fall within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, dedicated to studying and researching the volcanic history of Hawaii. Park Rangers are on hand to share their knowledge, and show off the amazing sites of the volcano. There are so many amazing sites to see, and for the best parts of the volcano, the rangers are on hand for directions and insider tips.
The volcano and National Park are so big that driving through the park is advised. There are hikes over extinct lava flows, and to current eruption sites, but a drive through the park takes visitors to parts that seem to transport back in time. Standing on the edge of volcanic sea cliffs, with the violent ocean washing ashore below, the wind howling, and no sign of life in site is one of the most incredible feelings, and transports to a simpler time, when the islands were under construction.
Visiting the volcano is easy and fun. Volcano tours depart daily, and visit the best sites that Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has to offer. Though not required, a tour is encouraged. The chance to see an active volcano doesn't come around everyday, and is just one of the things that makes Hawaii special.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Big Island tours and Big Island activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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