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The slope of Kilauea has a real treat for orchid lovers - the Akatsuka orchid gardens. 

Orchids love the volcano area. Introduced wild orchids blooming can be glimpsed as you drive, along the side of the road. Orchids and other flowers that love cool, damp air, and the gravelly lava soil, flourish near volcanoes.

Hawaii has only three native orchids, but they all grow in the highland forests and bogs so you’re not likely to see them - one is incredibly rare. 

Moriyasu Akatsuka started the orchid gardens in 1974, after running a family orchid nursery in Japan. At the gardens, you can walk through their greenhouses and view all of the different types of orchids they raise and ship out to customers around the world. They also run farm tours and tastings, but you might need to book these in advance. 

 If you aren’t growing any orchids at home now, you’ll definitely want to give it a try after seeing the gorgeous flowers on display (you might especially look for the one worth $20,000 bucks).

Want to take a look at some orchids?

Check out our South Islands Epic Coastal Journey Tour!