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Hilo, the Orchid capital of the world, is approximately 2 ½ hours from Kona (without slowing down to sight see). Hilo is warm, rainy and with gorgeous tropical flowers and greenery. It is fun to drive to Hilo, have lunch and see the small zoo with one of the best tiger breeding programs in the world, Nani Mau Gardens, the Macadamia Nut Factory, etc.
On the way to Kilo, Waipio Valley, a tropical rain forest, is a wonderful side trip. You cannot go into the Valley without a four wheel drive vehicle. A few people walk, a few take horse drawn wagons, some go on commercial four wheel drive excursions, and most just stop at the look out point. There are water falls, taro patches and huge tropical plants in the Valley. It is a very special place. |
