Accommodation 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.
Service Projects 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.
Food 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.
Itinerary Highlights Kailua Kona, Big Island 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.
Pu‘u Wa’awa’a Forest Reserve 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. Mauna Kea 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
What’s Included in Your Program Program Leaders & Guides English Speaking Rustic Pathways international and local leaders Airport Transportation Meet and greet with private transportation to and from the airport Comfortable Accommodations All nights of accommodation All Meals Included Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your stay Ground Transportation All transportation between program locations and activities All Activities Every activity, entrance fee, and experience in your itinerary 24/7 Support On-call support throughout the program for peace of mind Emergency Coverage Included emergency evacuation assurance plan All Fees & Tips Airport taxes, departure fees, donations, and guide tips What’s Not Included in Your Program International Flights Souvenirs Additional Snacks Visa Expenses Passport Fees