In addition, we will have the services of a destination management company - Hawaii Dream Destinations, to handle other tours and accompanying persons requests (e.g. scuba, helicopter tours, horseback riding, boating, stargazing, airport transfers etc.).
This tour is targeted at those meeting participants who want to understand a bit about the geology and history of the Hawaiian volcanos and how they relate to volcanism in the solar system. In order to keep costs down, tour participants will take turns driving rental cars (which we will provide), and accommodations will be modest, but comfortable. Expect lots of hiking and a variety of scenery and climates. Although the Kileaua volcano has been continuously active for many years, we cannot predict the level of activity at the time of the tour, nor the likelihood of seeing surface flows, however, we will make an excursion to the site where the lava is entering the ocean.
Ininerary
Saturday, July 31
Sunday, July, 1
The accommodations will be at the Kalani Honua oceanside retreat near the village of Kalapana which was destroyed by the volcanic flow from Kilaeua several years ago. The retreat is located near spectacular volcanic black sand beaches frequented by dolphins. Accommodations will be in single or double rooms in the lodges (some will have shared baths, others will have private baths). The retreat serves primarily vegetarian cuisine (which is both excellent and abundant!). Dining is in an outdoor area, so bringing along mosquito repellant is a good idea, as this location is jungle. The retreat runs off generator power, and the electricity is turned off at 11pm, so bringing a flashlight is a must. The retreat spa facilities offer a 25 meter pool, a sauna, 2 jacuzzis and massage services ($65 / hour). Thermal springs, norkeling and tide pools are nearby.
There will be considerable hiking involved, with the hike to the ocean being over pahoehoe lava. Good hiking boots are recommended, and people should be in reasonably good physical condition (with one 4 hour hike anticipated). The elevation ranges between sea level and 4000 feet, so participants should expect temperature changes (from cool and misty to hot). Participants are requested to bring rain gear (raincoat or poncho), a canteen, sunscreen a hat and flashlights for the night excursion.
This tour is targeted at those meeting participants who want get an inside tour of some of the telescope facilities on Mauna Kea. Transportation will be provided by Paradise Safaris, who will be helping to sponsor the event. The cost will include warm jackets for the summit, and a light snack. The participants will visit the mid-level facilities and the summit, stopping at the Keck and NASA Infrared Telescope Facilities.
Ininerary