| June 17 – June 24, 2025 | Full | |
| June 26 – July 3, 2025 | Full | |
Serve alongside local community organizations in their mission to safeguard Hawaii’s biodiversity, foster environmental stewardship and support local food security. You may get the chance to plant native tree species, reconstruct trails, remove invasive species, volunteer at a food bank, or participate in other land maintenance activities to assist with environmental and community efforts on the island. Throughout your service work, learn about the unique biodiversity in this region and the rich history of Kanaka Maoli, Hawaii’s native people. Get a taste of what makes Hawaii an island paradise in your spare time by hiking through changing climate zones, relaxing on black and white sand beaches, and learning to surf.
| Service projects support UN Sustainable Development Goals | |
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Highlights:
We are excited to welcome you in Hawai'i and for you to experience the magic of the nature, people, and culture.
Quote by: Emily Green Program Manager, Hawaii
Students will stay at a beautiful property exclusive to the Rustic Pathways group. Rooms are separated by gender and feature comfortable furnishings, with plenty of shared outdoor and communal spaces for group activities.
The property is located conveniently near the sites where students will engage in service, adventure and cultural immersion.
Each student will provide about 12 hours of community service while on the program. The service will focus on gardening and trail maintenance projects that foster environmental sustainability, along with supporting local food security.
Students will work with the Akahiao Nature Institute, based at the Hue Hue Ranch. One of its key missions is to reconnect students with nature and traditional Hawaiian relationships with the land. While on the ranch, students learn how island communities lived in harmony with their surroundings and reflect on the challenges and benefits of using the environment as a guide.
The students learn about environmental stewardship on the ranch. Service projects may include removing invasive plant species, planting native flora, or maintaining trails. Students will also help in the ranch’s gardens, harvesting ingredients for a farm-to-table meal that they’ll help cook. While enjoying their meal, they’ll explore how early Polynesians used the stars to navigate their way to Hawai‘i.
In addition to their work on the ranch, students will volunteer at the Kona Food Bank. There, they’ll learn about food security in Hawai‘i and assist with tasks that help get essential supplies to local families. This part of the experience offers a hands-on understanding of how food systems impact island communities today.
Julie Rogers is the executive director of the Akahiao Nature Institute and is passionate about helping students see the role they play in the environment. She says we’re all stewards of the land and that being amid the mountains, trees and plants can help students figure out their own identity.
“We can let nature lead us to who we are. It’s the teacher,” Rogers said.
Most of the students’ meals will be prepared at the ranch. For some outings, lunches will be packed.
One of the food highlights will be a farm-to- table meal that the students will help prepare. They’ll gather ingredients from the garden to make local dishes.
The students also will make pizza one night. Other highlights may include Kona coffee, local fruits and Hawaiian Haupia, which is a dessert made with coconut milk.
The Kona District covers a large portion of the western side of Hawai’i Island, also called the Big Island. The town of Kailua-Kona in the district was once a quiet fishing village. Now it is an activity center for the region. It has many farmers markets and shops and is near numerous beautiful beaches.
This nature reserve encompasses nearly 40,000 acres, including endangered tropical dry forests. The centerpiece of the reserve is the Pu’uwa’aw’a cinder cone. The area has scenic hiking trails with wildflowers dotting the way.
This inactive volcano has the highest point in Hawaii and is estimated to be one million years old. Mauna Kea’s peak, like other ones in Hawaii, is considered sacred by indigenous Hawaiians.
My trip to Hawaii has been quite eventful! We have had many adventures such as swimming in crystal clear waters, going on a five mile hike, paddle boarding, and especially snorkeling on the catamaran. Not only are the journeys exciting, but the service is amazing as well! So far, we have helped in the Hawaiian food bank and garden service making the environment thrive.
– Luke, Rustic Pathways Alumni
English Speaking Rustic Pathways international and local leaders
Meet and greet with private transportation to and from the airport
All nights of accommodation
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your stay
All transportation between program locations and activities
Every activity, entrance fee, and experience in your itinerary
On-call support throughout the program for peace of mind
Included emergency evacuation assurance plan
Airport taxes, departure fees, donations, and guide tips
Keep in mind that this is a recommendation and you should factor in your personal preferences and habits when it comes to items like socks, underwear, bathing suits, etc. We recommend packing light; clothes can be worn multiple times throughout the program. Sun protection will be extremely important!
Most importantly, each student will need to be able to carry their luggage. Throughout the program, you will be moving your bag through the airport, loading and unloading from the cars, up and down stairs, and short distances across uneven terrain.
Travel light. Pack only the essentials. You’ll need less than you think!
Consider no checked bag. We strongly recommend that you consider packing only a carry-on size bag. This prevents your luggage getting lost or separated from you, keeps your bag manageable, and helps you be more mobile on your travel day.
Bring the right clothes. Pack clothes that are acceptable for service projects. This includes appropriate footwear.
Leave your valuables behind. While traveling, it’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep any prized possessions safe at home.
Check with TSA. Make sure your luggage complies with TSA regulations, especially your carry-on. Useful tip: Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after security.
Extra paperwork? If you need additional forms filled out to get credit for your service hours, no problem! Bring these forms with you so they can be completed in-country.
A school backpack is ideal as it will be used for daily activities and outings.
A 40-50 liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.
For community service:
For beach/swimming:
General: clothes to wear while at the ranch, the beach, in town, or just hanging out!
Toiletries (travel sized in zip lock bags)
Miscellaneous
We Provide
