In 1980, President Jimmy Carter signed Public Law 96-565 establishing Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai. Today, travelers are permitted to visit the Kalaupapa peninsula.
While Hawaii's isolation laws were abolished in 1969, many of those who suffer from Hansen's Disease have elected to remain in Kalaupapa. It is essential that respect is shown to these residents when visiting the peninsula.
The most popular means to reach Kalaupapa is by mule, with the Molokai Mule Ride, Inc. You and the rest of your tour group travel down 1,700 feet of one of the highest sea cliffs in the world on a narrow 2.9 mile trail with 26 switchbacks. Once you reach the peninsula, you are met by a guide with Damien Tours of Kalaupapa.
The tour will teach you about the former leper colony. You will hear stories of the struggles and suffering of those banished to Molokai.
The tour includes a visit to the grave site of Father Damien as well as St. Philomena Church where Father Damien preached.
The tour includes lunch at Judd Park on the Kalawao side of Kalapapa, overlooking sea cliffs, waterfalls, dramatic ocean rock formations and crashing surf.
You can also reach the peninsula by hiking down the trail or by small plane. However, unless you are invited by one of the residents, you must take the tour offered by Damien Tours. All visitors must be at least 16 years old.
