Sightseeing: Hilo is a lush, tropical town that is the gateway to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Established in 1916, the park spans 878 sq km (339 sq miles) and ranges from sea level to the top of Mauna Loa, the world’s tallest volcano at 4169m (13,677ft) high. Many rare species of plant have flourished in the volcanic landscape; indeed, over 90% of the park’s flora and fauna, including 10,000 species of insect and spider, is unique to Hawaii. Hiking trails are a popular way of seeing the wildlife and also the dramatic lava fields and steam vents surrounding Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano.