Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (USA)
Registered in: 1987
World Heritage Type: Natural Heritage
Registration criteria:
- It is a remarkable example representing a major stage in the Earth's history, including a record of the evolution of human life, significant ongoing geological processes in the formation of landforms, or significant geological or physical geographical features.
Access: Approximately 47km from Hilo International Airport. Approximately 45 minutes by car.
Discover the world's most active volcano and its overwhelming scale
Hawaii Island is the newest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which spreads across the southern part of the island, was designated a national park in 1916 and registered as a World Heritage Site (natural heritage) in 1987. The park, which covers a total area of approximately 1,335 square kilometers, is dotted with two volcanoes: Mount Mauna Loa, which is approximately 4,169 meters above sea level, and Mount Kilauea, which is approximately 1,247 meters above sea level. Mount Kilauea, which has been erupting since 1983, is particularly known as the "world's most active volcano." It is known as a rare place where you can observe the workings of the earth through volcanic activity, such as lava flowing from the crater gradually expanding the coastline.
On the other hand, Mauna Loa, which means "long mountain" in Hawaiian, is attractive for its overwhelming scale. Known as the largest mountain on Earth, this mountain is the world's largest shield volcano, which has erupted more than 30 times since recorded history. Although it has not erupted since 1984, the vastness of its endless foothills symbolizes the majestic nature unique to the "Big Island."
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the most popular spot on the Big Island, is a World Heritage Site where you can enjoy the dynamic topography created by volcanic activity and the diverse ecosystem that lives there. If you visit the Big Island, be sure to visit it.
Tour the Kilauea Caldera, the world's only drive-in volcano
There are many attractions around Kilauea Volcano, known as the "world's only drive-in volcano." In particular, the Crater Rim Drive, a circular road that circles the Kilauea Caldera, which is about 4.5 km in diameter, is an area you should definitely visit. Along the 17 km road, there are many observation points where you can get a panoramic view of Kilauea Caldera, such as the Kilauea Lookout and the Kilauea Iki Crater Observation Deck. In addition, Halemaumau Crater, the largest crater in Kilauea Caldera, is a sacred place loved by indigenous people. It is said to be the home of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire. The Thomas A. Jagger Museum, which has exhibits on the geology and strata of Kilauea Volcano and volcanic research, is also recommended as an observation point where you can get a panoramic view of Halemaumau Crater.
If you are going on the Crater Rim Drive, which is full of various travel attractions, start by gathering information at the Kilauea Visitor Center! Some areas are off-limits due to volcanic activity or weather conditions, so be sure to check before you go.
Furthermore, if you want to see lava flowing from the crater and reaching the coastline, head to the Kalapana Viewing Area located on the east side of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. From this spot, you can see the Puu O'o Vent, which is currently an active volcano. The state of the lava flow changes daily, so be sure to check in advance before visiting the area.
Spectacular activities to enjoy at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you want to experience the overwhelming scale of nature at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, we recommend trying out a variety of activities. For example, the Kilauea Visitor Center offers ranger-guided hiking tours, allowing you to experience the charms of Kilauea Volcano on a deeper level. In addition, many private tour companies offer night tours set in the Kilauea Caldera and Mount Mauna Loa. You can gaze at the red glowing crater at night at Halemaumau Crater, or look up at the starry sky from Mount Mauna Loa... You're sure to enjoy a romantic view! We also recommend walking tours where you can get up close and personal with the lava flowing from Pu'u O'o Vent.
Among the Hawaiian islands, the Big Island is where you can feel the dynamic workings of nature. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a World Heritage Site where you can feel the workings of the earth woven by volcanic activity, is a place that condenses the charm of a trip that is unique to the Big Island. It is worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.
Comment
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is made up of Mount Mauna Loa, which is about 4,169 meters above sea level, and Mount Kilauea, which is about 1,247 meters above sea level. The weather around the volcanoes is changeable, so don't forget to bring rain gear! Also, many areas are at high altitudes and have low temperatures, so it gets particularly cold in the mornings and evenings, so it's essential to bring warm clothes. Be sure to be fully prepared and enjoy this dynamic World Heritage Site.
Travel writer/Toru Yoshihara
To the Big Island, the largest island in the Hawaiian Islands
The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
