Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PERMACULTURE IN PUNA
Permaculture, a sustainable agriculture method wherein practitioners attempt to
emulate natural ecosystems, is widespread in Puna. Many local permaculture
farms are willing to offer at least free lodging for permaculture volunteers and stu-
modations options that double as permaculture farms and education centers. In-
quire at Island Naturals (
Click here
)
or the Pahoa Museum (
Click here
)
for informa-
tion on new permaculture enclaves in the district.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Keaʻau & Around
POP 2253
Heading down the 'hill' from Volcano towards Hilo, you'll whisk past sugar plantations
converted into subdivisions. There are some worthy lodgings tucked away in these parts,
making it an attractive base between Hilo, Volcano and Puna. The main town is Keaʻau,
a cluster of gas stations and stores just off Hwy 11 - provision here before heading to
Volcano; the two general stores there charge an arm and a leg.
7am-4pm Mon-Sat)
you can taste East Hawaiʻi coffee and take a short, free tour at this
mill-cafe with a breezy lanai for enjoying tasty sandwiches and a cup of joe.
Tours
Kazumura Cave Tours
GUIDED TOUR
(
967-7208;
http://kazumuracave.com
;
off Volcano Hwy, past MM 22; tours from $20; by ap-
pointment)
Since discovering his property lies atop the Kazumura Cave - the world's
longest lava tube - Harry Schick has become an expert on lava caves and gives small
tours (four to six people maximum) at low cost. On the shortest, easiest tour, participants
must climb ladders and walk over rocky terrain. Age 10 and above.
Kilauea Caverns of Fire
GUIDED TOUR
impersonal tour through Kazumura Cave; choose from an easy one-hour walk or a three-
hour scramble. Call for reservations and directions.
