- February 8, 2022–February 20, 2022
- Off Campus
- $5,954*
Explore volcanoes, waterfalls and more on the Big Island and Kauai
Tour status
There are two spaces remaining on this tour. The deadline for registration is Tuesday, November 9; after that time, space will depend on flight availability.
Highlights
Our tour will examine the geology and volcanic development of Hawaii while we enjoy the historical, cultural and scenic sights of the islands. Our goal is to understand volcanoes and volcanic features as well as appreciate the historical and cultural development of the diverse society present in Hawaii.
We arrive in Kona, the largest city on the Big Island, for our first night, and then travel on to Hilo with stops to view green and black sand beaches, turtles, and the cliffs of South Point.
From Hilo, we will spend two days exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including the Kilauea Visitor Center, hiking (3-4 miles) the crater floor at Kilauea Iki, and driving the Chain of Craters road. The second day will include 4-5 miles of hiking to Huluhulu and the rim of the spectacular Mauna Ulu crater.
Near Hilo we will visit the site of massive volcano eruptions in 2018 and drive (and walk) new roads over the recent lava. Hilo also includes Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens, Rainbow Falls, a farmer's market, botanical gardens, and time to browse and shop.
We will circle the Big Island as we return to Kona, stopping on the way at beautiful Laupahoehoe Point, Akaka Falls, Waipio Canyon, and the largest restored temple in Hawaii.
In Kona we visit a coffee plantation and view Kealakekua Bay where Captain Cook, the "discoverer" of Hawaii, landed and eventually died. Afternoon offers free time in Kona.
Our visit to Kauai begins along the south coast with blowholes, the Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park, and the mysterious Menehune irrigation ditch. We spend a day in Waimea Canyon with spectacular overlooks into a deeply eroded volcano where we discuss rock weathering and volcanic plumbing. We visit a museum and may take an optional hike.
Our third day on Kauai circles to the north shore and includes Wailua Falls, Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge with endangered albatross, taro fields, and the charming town of Hanalei.
Returning home, we layover in Honolulu and visit the Pearl Harbor museum and memorial before catching an evening flight back to Grand Rapids.
Trip leader
Gerry Van Kooten, professor of geology emeritus, has led several student interim trips to the Hawaiian islands. He will serve as both tour manager and local expert for this tour.
Activity level
This trip will be more active than the typical CALL trip and participants must be able to walk several miles on trails. See the tour brochure for details, and contact Gerry at gvankooten1@gmail.com to ask further questions about the activity level.
Cost, deadlines
The tour price of $5954 per person is based on double occupancy; the single room supplement is $1240. Flights will depart from Grand Rapids, Mich.; Witte Travel can work with you on alternative flight arrangements after tour booking as needed. The tour is designed for 20-24 passengers to allow for greater flexibility and mobility with the group.
Optional travel protection is available through Travelex Insurance Services. See their website for an overview of what coverage is included or excluded related to COVID-19, and see the tour brochure for a link to the full policy.
More information
Email alumni@calvin.edu if you wish to be mailed a print copy of the tour brochure.
Calvin tours are open to any friends of CALL and the Calvin Alumni Association who wish to travel with us. Explore other Calvin-sponsored tours, too.
Registration
The registration deadline has passed.
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