Kalaupapa National Historical Park

The park was established in 1980 to preserve the memories and experiences of the people forcibly sent here. The park's mission is to provide a well-maintained community that ensures the present patient-residents of the Kalaupapa Settlement may live out their lives peacefully and comfortably. The park also supports education concerning Hansen's disease (leprosy), a disease shrouded in fear and ignorance for many centuries.

Kalaupapa

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Prohibited:

Persons under 16 years of age are not permitted.
Photography of patient-residents and their property is strictly prohibited without their express written permission.
Overnight accommodations are available only to guests of residents.

For the vast majority of Kalaupapa visitors, there is only one way to visit and one thing to do: go on a guided tour. Many parks and historical sites in Hawaii are open to visitors and recreation. However, Kalaupapa is an active patient community and is run as such.

What to Expect:

Kalaupapa is an extremely isolated community

Furthermore, once you are down in Kalaupapa, there are no medical services. Be prepared that in inclement weather or potential other challenges, it is possible that getting out of Kalaupapa will not be feasible. Due to this, it is suggested that upon a visit to Kalaupapa, you should bring any needed medications and even some extra food. The 3.5 mile trail to the park is extremely steep and challenging with uneven surfaces. Hiking the trail is physically demanding and careful consideration should be given to your physical fitness level before beginning the hike.