Waipio Valley Taro Farm / Waterfall Hikes
Waipio Valley is a cultural treasure, and one of the most sacred places in the Islands. Known as the “Valley of the Kings,” it was once a flourishing community of Hawaiian royalty. A few families still live and farm in the rustic valley. They keep Hawaiian culture alive by harvesting traditional taro crops and making poi. We're fortunate to be able to camp in the valley. Experience the history and culture of this place by learning from a local farmer and helping him work in his taro patch. We test our limits by climbing the challenging "Z-trail" for the best views of the valley and a rewarding dip in "Queen's Bath." Finally, we hike, climb and swim up a riverbed to incredible 1,000 ft. Hi'ilawe Falls. When it's over, you won't want to leave the valley! (1-3 days)
Waimanu Valley Backpacking
Ready for adventure? Waimanu Valley was once a place where ancient Hawaiians lived and thrived. Now its many waterfalls and black sand beach are enjoyed by only a few hearty backpackers. We begin our hike traveling in the footsteps of King Kamehameha, through sacred Waipi’o Valley. The trail requires fording rivers and ascending steep valley walls where the views are unbelievable. After the extremely steep “Z-Trail” section, we enjoy miles of majestic pine and eucalyptus forest before making our final descent into Waimanu. Day two is a well deserved rest in this remote wilderness. We may see endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals basking in the sun or be able to eat tropical fruit from the trees. We spend the day relaxing on the beach, playing games and learning low impact camping skills. On day three, we reflect on our amazing accomplishments while hiking for home. After this very challenging 20 mile trip, you’ll agree Waimanu is a true paradise. (Requires 3 days)
Volcanoes National Park and Lava
With its vast, ever-changing landscapes, Volcanoes National Park has been honored as a “World Heritage Site” and “International Biosphere Reserve.” There’s no place on earth quite like it! On this course, we enjoy pristine rainforest, craters, steam vents, lava tube caves, and even top notch snorkeling.
The adventure begins on a four mile hike through the rainforest and steaming crater floor of Kilauea Iki. We end the day giving back to the Park with a service project eradicating invasive plant species. The next day, we embark on a challenging eight mile hike, descending and ascending 2,400 ft. to the coast. On the trail, we’re rewarded with sweeping coastline views, fantastic lava tube caves and unforgettable snorkeling in protected tide pools. This is an area of the Park most visitors never explore. It's an experience to remember! (1-3 days)
Sailing with Na Hoa Holomoku Yacht Club
Sailing and sea navigation were important skills for the Polynesians who sailed to Hawaii. Taught by yacht club instructors, students will learn basic sailing techniques. We learn hands on by sailing "Sunfish" in beautiful Hilo Bay. These small, two person boats are perfect for learning. They're fast, wet and fun! (1-2 days)
Nature Conservancy Service Project
The Nature Conservancy sponsors projects in several remote and wild areas of the island where students may help preserve endangered sea turtle nesting grounds, control invasive weeds or replant native trees. Enjoy the satisfaction of giving back to nature, while learning about Hawaii's fragile ecosystems and what can be done to protect them.
Natural Energy Lab / Beach time
Visit the Natural Energy Lab of Hawaii (NELHA) and learn about the latest in “green-tech” innovations. Our future depends on renewable energy, and the Big Island is a world leader in this cutting edge technology. We utilize resources in Solar, Wind, Geothermal, and Hydroelectric power. Students who take an interest in this subject could be rewarded with influential jobs that make a huge impact on our planet. Give your students a head start in this innovative field! Also enjoy beach time on a beautiful white sand bay.
Mauna Kea Astronomy At 13,796 feet, Mauna Kea has been a sacred place to Hawaiians for hundreds of years. It is also home to world-class observatories. Because of its pollution-free skies, it’s a prime location to explore the universe. A stop at the Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo will prepare students to experience the cultural and scientific wonders of this unique place. At the 8,000 ft. visitor center (Expect temperatures in the 30’s!), students will participate in an interactive presentation on the night sky using high power telescopes and computer software. We camp in heated cabins at Mauna Kea State Park, where we may see endangered Nene geese. This is stargazing at its finest!
Wilderness First Aid / CPR Course / Snorkeling
Develop a culture of safety and responsibility at your organization. Learn practical decision making skills unique to remote medicine. This hands-on, 20-hour course gives an excellent overview of the human body and its systems. Earn a WFA and CPR certification from Remote Medical International and the American Heart Association good for two years. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys adventures in the outdoors! There's also time to snorkel in crystal clear ocean tide pools. It's the closest you'll ever come to swimming in an aquarium! (Requires 3 days)