Pacific Islands Institute logo

Outdoor Adventure

← Back to All Tours

In Pele’s Footsteps: Trek Across Hawaiʻi

Pele, Earth-Eater and Shaper of Sacred Land, renowned goddess of fire and volcanoes––in Hawaiian mythology, Pele traversed the sea, crossin one island to the next along the Hawaiian island chain before finally making her home in the firey heart of Mt. Kīlauea, which remains the most active volcano in the world today.

Follow Pele’s epic trek from Kaua`i to Hawai`i Island (“the Big Island”) in this unique hiking program. Traverse lush native forests and the undulating black landscape of volcanic calderas to the heart of Hawaiian lands and tradition. The final destination of your journey, Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, encircles the fires of Kīlauea and is recognized internationally as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. Accompanying expert interpretation will illuminating the natural environment, Hawaiian culture, and legends of Pele that surround you, experience a Hawaii like no other.

Defining Experiences

Explore lava tubes, calderas, and black sand beaches in and around the world’s most active volcano in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park
Discover about Hawaiʻi’s diverse microclimates, ecosystems through hikes in lush forests, expansive canyons, and coastal cliffs alongside expert geologists and conservationsits.
Immerse yourself in ancient legends of Hawaiian gods, goddesses, and demigods that are said to reside in these islands and learn about Hawaiʻi’s culture, traditions, and sacred sites
Lava Tube in Tropical Forest, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Halemaumau Crater at Night
University students hiking around tide pools, Kaena Point, Oahu, Hawaii

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from an 7-day program.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 2: Lava Tubes, Black Sand Beach, and Hawaiian Mythology

Enjoy a “Caverns Experience” in the beauty of ancient thousand-year-old lava tubes, the subterrenean shells where rivers of lava once flowed. Discover how Hawaiians used these tunnels. Then, visit a black sand beach where the protected Hawaiian honu green sea turtles often forage for seaweek and soak in the sun. Conclude the day at the hotel, soaking in the legendary tales of Hawaiian gods, goddesses, and demigods, some of whom are said to still roam these lands.

Day 5: Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Park

Hike through the midlevel forest to spectacular views of the “Grand Canyon of Hawai`i”. You will have a 180-degree view looking down into the canyon. (Length: 4 miles; Elevation: 600 ft gain on the return.) Enjoy a picnic lunch at the overlook with fantastic views.
In the afternoon, hike the 2-mile Pihea Trail in Kōkeʻe State Park starting at the Puʻu o Kila overlook. Skirt along the famous Kalalau Valley, passing through forest of ohiʻa trees, ferns, koa, and other native vegetation, for one mile to the Pihea Vista.

Day 6: Coastal Hike, Beach, and Lūʻau

Experience a unique coastal
geology in a remote area with endemic plants, birds, monk seals, and
humpback whales (seasonal: Jan – Apr) along the Māhāʽulepū Coast Trail. This unique karst topography supports endemic coastal plants and offers spectacular vistas, gorgeous beaches, and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites which you will explore in depth with an accompanying expert instructor. Finish the hike at one of the best beaches in America per the Travel Channel and enjoy sun and waves before returning to the hotel for a farewell lūʻau.

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

Inquire about this tour

← Back to All Tours

← Back to All Tours

Hawaii’s Sea of Stars: An Exploration of the Cosmos

Experience the cutting edge of astronomy while immersed in Hawaii’s beautiful tropical environment and rich culture. Hawai’i is home to world-class astronomy research centers and rich celestial knowledge and traditions. Through in-depth lectures, expert-led discussions, hands-on labs, and engaging excursions you will deepen your understandings of astronomy, planetology, geology, indigenous knowledge and the Big Island’s unique culture and ecology.

Along the way, share in traditional knowledge and practices like Polynesian astral navigation, lunar calendar traditions, and constellation mythology. Your voyage will take you to new heights, climbing to 2,500 feet above sea level where Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park’s unique geology sees hot steam drifting out of cracks in hardened lava. Delve into the pertinent issues of respect of indigenous tradition, land management, and development through discussion with Hawaiian cultural leaders. Then, on Mauna Kea, explore the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy 9,300 feed above sea level before ascending to the 13,800 foot summit of Mauna Kea to tour Hawaii’s preeminent astronomy facilities.

Come along on this journey and discover the skies above Hawai’i, all the while developing an in-depth appreciation of astronomy, the natural world, and Hawaiian culture and historic sites along the way.

Defining Experiences

Learn about Hawaiian perspectives on telescope development from a Hawaiian cultural leader, then ascend 9,300 and 13,800 feet above sea level to explore the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy and Hawaii’s preeminent astronomy facilities on Mauna Kea.
Immerse yourself in Hawaiian celestial mythology and learn traditional astral navigation techniques from local experts
Stargaze atop an active volcano, discovering the unique geology that makes Hawaiʻi a tropical paradise

Featured image from the Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from an 8-day program.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 2: Historic Hilo and Gemini HQ

Discover the Historic town of Hilo, also the largest town on the island. Then, visit the Base Facility Operations center of Gemini, one of the most impressive optical telescopes in the world. In the evening, learn from an expert guest lecturer.

Day 3: Volcano Geology and Ecology

Accompanied by an expert volcanologist, visit the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and discover the unique geology and ecology of Hawaiian nature, including lava tube caves, giant ferns, and bird species.

Day 5: ʻAkaka Falls, Keck Observatory, Stargazing

Enjoy a scenic drive with interpretation through multiple microclimates from Hilo to Waimea. Make stops along the way, including a visit to the radiant ʻAkaka Falls State Park. Spend the afternoon learning about the daily life of an astronomer at the Keck Observatory through a presentation and discussion with an astronomer. Continue the discussion over dinner and enjoy some evening stargazing, weather permitting.

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

Inquire about this tour

← Back to All Tours

← Back to All Tours

Hawaiʻi Alternative Spring Break: Inclusive Cultural & Service Learning

Universities students and professors explore beyond the classroom, connecting with Hawaiʻi’s native communities during this immersive and unforgettable spring break. With an emphasis on inclusion and regenerative travel, students learn directly from Hawaiian cultural leaders while engaged in distinctive service projects that support the communities they visit.

Ancient Hawaiians developed an intimate relationship with their natural environment, characterized by a deep love, respect and knowledge of the environment.  Discover how Hawaii’s remote location, tropical climate, and diverse climactic zones create a unique setting not found elsewhere.  Discover how the history, legends, and spirituality of the islands weave into the tapestry of life today while engaging in service projects that benefit the environment and preservation of Hawaiʻi’s culture.

Defining Experiences

Participate in a sunrise Kapu Kai cleansing ceremony at a sacred site, guided by a Hawaiian spiritual leader
Get your hands dirty and contribute to the preservation of Hawaii’s deep valley ecosystems and ancient fishponds through service learning experiences
Discover the active Kīlauea Volcano and Hawaiʻi’s unique astronomical setting in Volcanoes National Park

These samples are from a 6-day itinerary designed and implemented for the University of Arizona.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Inquire about this tour

← Back to All Tours

← Back to All Tours

Snorkel in Fiji: Marine Life and Culture

Bula! Welcome to Fiji, where tropical beauty meets warm Fijian hospitality. Hop on to this special interest snorkeling program where you will dive into the vibrant coral reefs with marine experts, exploring the island’s rich biodiversity, from colorful fish to thriving ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, the pristine waters offer unforgettable underwater adventures.

After your water explorations, step onto land to experience Fijian culture — learn about community-driven conservation efforts that protect these natural treasures. Meet locals, visit schools, and enjoy evenings filled with traditional song and dance.

Fiji promises an immersive experience that blends nature, culture, and local hospitality.

Defining Experiences

Snorkel alongside marine experts to explore the vibrant biodiversity of Fiji’s stunning ecosystems, including Bligh Waters, Vatu-i-Ra Seascape, and Beqa Island on 7 full or half day excursions.
Discover how Fiji’s seascapes support the local community through field trips to nearby villages and schools and expert classes taught by the people leading cultural and environmental initiatives.
Take part in a traditional kava ceremony, sipping the spiritual pepper-root beverage from a bilo coconut cup, and enjoy lively evenings of Fijian meke music and dance.
patch coral near beautiful desert island beach
Fijian cultural practices
tropical botanical education

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from a 12-day program.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 3: Arrive in Fiji, Orientation, Snorkel Refresh

Upon arrival in Nadi, board a bus and drive along Viti Levu’s southwest coast, to take a boat across the lagoon to Beqa Island, a serene, six-square-mile island, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lack of roads. After lunch with drinks included, enjoy free time or join a snorkeling refresher at the resort pool to test your equipment and refresh your skills. Later, gather for the program orientation.

Day 5: Beqa Half-Day Snorkel, Class: Fijian Plants and Marine Projects, Meke

Slather on your reef safe sunscreen and start the day with a half-day boat-based snorkel trip to explore Beqa Lagoon. After lunch, attend afternoon lectures on Fijian plants and marine-based projects. Dinner at the resort follows, accompanied by a traditional Fijian meke dance and song performance.

Day 7: Full-Day Snorkel, Picnic, Class

Start the day with a boat trip into the Vatu-i-Ra Seascape, a stunning marine region between Viti Levu and Vanua Levu islands, home to over 300 coral species and diverse marine life, including dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles. Weather permitting, relax on a sandbar or on the boat with a picnic lunch and explore the on-site coral nursery. In the evening, attend a lecture on the environment and culture of Viti Levu’s north side.

Day 10: Half-Day Snorkel, Village Visit, Wrap Up Class, Farewell Dinner and Meke

In the morning, take a final boat-based snorkel to savor Fijiʻs vibrant waters before returning home. In the afternoon, visit a nearby village to learn about traditional Fijian life, including its unique system of collective land ownership and Fijian values. This is followed by a wrap-up class with your Group Leader and a Farewell Dinner where you can share favorite experiences with new friends, with drinks provided. The evening concludes with a Farewell Meke.

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

Inquire about this tour

← Back to All Tours

← Back to All Tours

National Park of American Samoa

Pacific Island’s Institute’s President’s favorite tour, the National Parks of American Samoa program encapsulates the blending of cultural, environmental, and educational experience central to our mission.

Experience the unforgettable beauty and cultural richness of American Samoa’s National Park, where volcanic peaks, secluded beaches, and lush tropical forests await. Hike scenic trails to breathtaking vistas, explore vibrant coral reefs, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Learn about the Samoan people’s deep connection to the land and sea, engage with local communities, enjoy traditional cuisine, and participate in cultural activities that highlight the island’s vibrant heritage. This journey offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural discovery, making it a truly remarkable experience.

Defining Experiences

Hike, snorkel, and explore the National Park of American Samoa, including the pristine Manuʻa Islands, a remote and largely inaccessible district of the National Park.
Connect with local families and the vibrant culture of American Samoa through a village visit.
Discover the historic Fagatogo Village, once the headquarters of the U.S. Naval Base Pago Pago and the most westernized village in the Territory, with structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from an 8-day program.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 2: Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center, National Park of American Samoa (NPSA)

In the morning, visit the Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center to learn about the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, home to diverse tropical marine life. In the afternoon, explore the Pago Pago section of the National Park, the only U.S. park south of the equator, featuring unique rainforests and stunning coastal views. Drive across mountains and along the coast, passing villages where chiefs signed 50-year land leases to establish the park. Keep an eye out for fruit bats as you immerse yourself in this ecological and cultural wonder.

Day 3: Aunuʻu National Natural Landmark, Village Visit

Depart by bus for Aunuʻu, a small volcanic island southeast of Pago Pago with a rich history dating back 2,000 years. Explore Aunuʻu Village and its stunning natural surroundings, including a National Marine Sanctuary that spans 5.8 square miles. Then, board a water taxi for a scenic ride to the island village. Enjoy a traditional Samoan “umu” lunch prepared in an above-ground earth oven, and, if conditions allow, take the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters offshore.

Day 6: Flight to the Manuʻa Islands, Explore Taʻū, Ofu

In the morning, fly from Pago Pago to Taʻū, the second-largest island in American Samoa, known for its cultural significance and stunning beauty. Half of Taʻū is within the National Park. Venture into accessible areas, weather permitting, including the Sauʻa region, visiting coastal roads, littoral forests, and archaeological sites. In the afternoon, depart by boat for Ofu, where all meals will be provided by a local family, as there are no restaurants or services on the island.

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

Inquire about this tour

← Back to All Tours