About Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater
Kīlauea is one of the most active volcanoes on earth, and for Native Hawaiians it is the home of Pele, goddess of fire and volcanoes. Her dwelling is Halemaʻumaʻu, the great crater within the summit caldera. Chants and hula tell of her journey across the islands before settling here, and eruptions are understood as expressions of her power and creation of new land.
Hawaiian practitioners still come to the crater rim to offer chants, hula, flowers and ʻōhelo berries to Pele. Within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, trails cross steaming vents, lava fields and rainforest. When the crater is active, the glow can light the night sky. Many visitors also learn of the 1824 act of chiefess Kapiʻolani, who defied Pele at this crater after converting to Christianity.
What to see
- Halemaʻumaʻu crater overlook
- Kīlauea Iki crater trail
- Steam vents and sulphur banks
- Night glow when eruptions are active
- Hula and chant ceremonies at the rim
Visiting Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater: practical guide
- Best time
- Year round; check eruption and air quality updates
- Hours
- National park open 24 hours
- Entry
- About 30 USD per vehicle for seven days
- Dress code
- Rain jacket and warm layers for the cool summit
- Nearest airport
- Hilo International Airport (ITO), 45 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Do not take lava rocks; tradition holds that this angers Pele
- Follow park closures for volcanic gas safety
- Visit after dark when eruptions are glowing
Festivals and special days
- Merrie Monarch hula festival in nearby Hilo (spring)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Hawaiian religion tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Do not move, stack or remove rocks at heiau or anywhere on the islands.
- Respect kapu signs marking restricted sacred areas.
- Do not leave offerings unless you understand the protocol.
- Avoid taking lava rocks or sand as souvenirs.
- Learn a few Hawaiian words and pronounce place names with care.
- Support Native Hawaiian owned businesses and cultural programs.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater?
Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater is in Volcano, Hawaii, United States, Oceania. GPS coordinates: 19.4072, -155.2834. The nearest airport is Hilo International Airport (ITO), 45 km.
What is the best time to visit Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater?
Year round; check eruption and air quality updates
Is there an entry fee for Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater?
About 30 USD per vehicle for seven days Opening hours: National park open 24 hours
What should I wear when visiting Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater?
Rain jacket and warm layers for the cool summit
Which religion is Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater sacred to?
Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater is sacred to Hawaiian religion. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
