Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
National park · Hawaii County
Hawaii
Highlights
Active volcanoes, lava tubes, craters, rainforest, hiking trails
Active volcanoes, lava tubes, craters, rainforest, hiking trails
"A rugged rainforest destination known for guided gorilla treks where visitors typically spend one hour with a gorilla family; weather and elevation can vary dramatically (roughly 80°F at lower elevations to around 41°F where the gorillas live), so layers are essential. Treks require careful biosecurity—wearing an N95/KN95 mask is mandatory to avoid transmitting human illnesses to the apes—and trekkers should dress in neutral colors to avoid startling wildlife. The terrain is steep, rocky, muddy, and full of thorny vegetation, so waterproof pants, high-top, waterproof hiking boots with good traction, gaiters, and sturdy gloves are strongly recommended. Expect intermittent rain even in the dry season, making a reliable waterproof jacket, a waterproof hat, and a lightweight, breathable base layer (merino or similar) valuable; sweat-wicking shirts and tall, quick-drying socks help prevent blisters and keep you comfortable. Practical kit like insect repellent (DEET formulas), a supportive daypack with a hydration bladder, and a rechargeable headlamp for navigating dark paths to lodgings complete the essentials for a safe, comfortable trek." - Claire Gallam Claire Gallam Claire is a passionate travel writer with over 16 years of storytelling experience. When she's not traveling, she's scouring the web (and stores) for the best products to make long flights, road trips, cruises, and more just a little bit easier. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A national park on the island that permits up-close views of active volcanoes, providing a rare opportunity to witness volcanic landscapes and geological activity as part of a broader multi-island Hawaiian itinerary." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A must-see destination for volcano enthusiasts, encompassing two of the island’s most active volcanoes and offering accessible geology experiences—from lava tubes and petroglyphs to dramatic crater rims and interpretive overlooks. The park can be explored on foot with basic supplies, and it rewards visitors with vivid lessons in volcanic processes and the island’s deep geological history." - Flora Stubbs Flora Stubbs Flora Stubbs is the executive editor of Travel + Leisure. She has been a journalist for over 20 years, and a travel editor for over a decade. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"This island park combines active volcanoes with rainforests, otherworldly lava fields, and exotic tropical flora across a vast landscape of trails. Highlights include viewing the active peaks Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, driving the Chain of Craters Road to the coastline, hiking the Kahuku Unit, and walking through native forest on the Kīpukapuaulu Trail." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Hawaii is a U.S. state located in the Pacific Ocean, known for its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and active volcanoes. It's a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers."
