Rain Forest Education & Restoration

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Volcano Art Center's Rain Forest Restoration and Education Project was founded in 2006 in efforts to maintain the integrity of Niaulani as a rare Hawaiin forest type by connecting people to it. The program offers ways in which the local and global community can gain intimate, meaningful learning experiences through interpretational and hands-on activites. All monies generated from our forest programs fund the future caretaking of the Niaulani Rain Forest.

Monday Niaulani Rain Forest Tour

Our guided Niaulani Rain Forest Tour is held every Monday morning, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., including holidays.

Visitors learn about Ni`aulani’s overall ecological importance as one of the last old- growth koa/`ohi`a rain forests, our current role in its protection, the continued threats to the integirty of it. People also get to see how native plants have co-evolved with Hawaii’s dwindling native bird species, and discover how migratory bird patterns greatly depicted Hawai‘is natural history post-human contact.

The human component of Ni`aulani’s history is also revealed, with an emphasis on traditional uses of plants and spiritual reverence of the dynamic Kilauea region to the Hawaiian people.

This free tour has been running strong since 2006 with the help of the Hawai’i Tourism Authority, but future private donations and other funding will ensure its continued operation in the years to come.

Plan Your Day Learning About and Helping the Niaulani Rain Forest

Custom-Lava-Jam-Band-tourSm Custom Niaulani Tours - 1 hr

Learn about Niaulani's importance as a rare cultural, historical, and natural resource according to your individual or group's needs.

Ages 6 & older

$10 minimum

$3/person – Max 30

Niaulani Forest Restoration - 2 hrs

Hands-on control of various invasive plants. Specific activities designed according to student needs. Includes a ½ hour guided tour.

Ages 6 & older

$20 minimum

$4/person – Max. 20

Eco-Art Activities - 2+ hrs

A gentle introduction to native Hawaiian forest ecology and natural history concepts through various hands-on artistic offerings.

Ages 6 & older

Priced in accordance to group size & activity

Cultural Activities & Demonstrations - 1,2 hrs

Learn traditional and contemporary ways Hawaiians utilize the forest through engaging demonstrations or hands-on instruction.

Ages 6 & older

Priced in accordance to group size & activity

*all activities subject to resource availability and require one adult per 10 students for supervision/safety precautions.

Learn more About Niaulani Rain Forest, and gain access to free educational materials!

Planning a visit to Volcano, Hawai'i Island? See our Visitor Information page for accommodation and restaurant listings, as well as weather forcasts.

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