Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Active volcanoes, lava tubes, steam vents, and rainforest trails
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The Best Islands in the United States: 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards | Condé Nast Traveler
"To experience volcanic activity up close, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park delivers lava flows, craters, and steam vents and is home to the very active Kilauea volcano." - Caitlin Morton
The Best Island to Visit in Hawaii for Every Type of Traveler | Condé Nast Traveler
"Noted for its geological significance, Hawaii Volcano National Park is described as containing two of the planet’s most active volcanoes and as a major natural draw on the Big Island." - Rachel Cheng
One of the Most Scenic Drives in the U.S. Has Rainforests, Barren Lava Fields, and Stunning Ocean Cliffs
"On the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the country's most beautiful national parks and is particularly appealing to travelers seeking adventure and otherworldly volcanic views; the park attracted more than 1.4 million visitors in 2024 and offers a mix of amazing hikes and scenic drives such as the Chain of Craters Road." - 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
16 Must-have Hiking Essentials for a Gorilla Trek
"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
15 Best Warm Places to Travel to This Winter
"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