On our first day we drove the famous Road To Hana – a windy road on the north coast of the island which takes you through thick rainforest. It also hosts some of the famous surf spots.

We visited an amazing lava tube and continued around the islands east coast.

I have to admit – the way back on the dry site of the island was probably even more impressive. Sometimes it looked like the Scottish coast, sometimes like the Serengeti.

We also had the pleasure to experience all weather in one day and by this getting nice shots of clouds, sun and even a full double rainbow!

Next morning we left our Airbnb early to see the sunrise on the 3.055m high volcano Haleakala. We left at four and couldn’t believe that google maps already showed a traffic jam on the way up to the mountain (very awkward for me but yes, you can just drive up the mountain…)! When we arrive the first parking lot was already full but the sunrise was just incredible.

After the sun was up we hiked down through the crater on a 20km hike. Beautiful and amazing. And we only met 5 other people on the entire trail. What a beauty. We started out with a gentle but steady decent through the crater which we then crossed. Beautiful desert and volcano landscape.

The second part continued in the clouds and instantly the vegetation changed to very green bushes. We were in thick colds which felt like rain and soaked us. Luckily in 25C.

Nene – the national bird of Hawaii

 

@ all beard-less people: The advantage of having one is that you don’t have to carry as much water. You can just store it in here – probably half a litre 😂

The last part was a nice 400m ascent up again on the crater rim. I love mountains! Sensational hike and good on ya, Eva! You mountain beast 😉

And then we stayed on the coolest Airbnb I have been so far – on a catamaran. One day of chilling on the sea. We had to paddle out on a kayak and had a great day. Slept on deck underneath the stars…

Last day was booked with an early morning snorkelling tour on a reef and with turtles. So cool to swim with sea turtles.

To sum it up – I was impressed by the diversity of Hawaii. You do have everything from rainforest, deserts, volcanos, canyons hight mountains, secluded bays, brutal shore lines and much more. The hiking trails are fortunately mostly still rough and natural which keeps the masses away. Next time I come with my tent! Only downside for me was the missing island feeling – similar to Fiji. Whenever you get to the city you can’t tell the difference to any American city in the US anymore. But still a visit – especially if you go outdoors.

A big thanks to my fabulous tour and travel guide! You are the best. For more lapalome times to come… ;-))