Pilgrimage to Hawaii in fall 2024 – In the Footsteps of Saint Damien

CHICAGO – HONOLULU

Welcome to the magical world of Hawaii! Your unforgettable journey begins early in the morning at O’Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago. Are you ready for an exciting trip to a tropical paradise?

Upon arrival in Hawaii, we will be greeted with traditional flower Lei garlands, immediately immersing us in the Hawaiian atmosphere. Then, we head to the charming Waikiki, one of the most famous resort districts in the world. It will be the perfect time to experience the true taste of Hawaii, unwind after the journey, and breathe in the fresh air.

To conclude the first day, we enjoy a special dinner where we can indulge in delicious local specialties such as fresh seafood, traditional Hawaiian dishes, and exotic cocktails under the stars.

After a day full of travel and new experiences, it’s time for well-deserved rest. But remember, this is just the beginning of our adventure in Hawaii! Exciting days full of amazing attractions, tours, and discoveries await us, allowing us to explore the beauty of this magical archipelago.

Pilgrimage to Hawaii – In the Footsteps of Saint Damien

HONOLULU

After a relaxing morning on the white sands of a Hawaiian beach, we invite you on an exciting journey to the historic Pearl Harbor. It is the place where World War II begins for the United States. We embark on a boat cruise to the symbolic site commemorating the sinking of the cruiser “Arizona.” This commemorative journey allows us to delve into the history of this tragic event that changes the course of history.

Upon returning to land, we tour downtown Honolulu. We start by visiting the cathedral where Father Damien is ordained, feeling the spirit of the place and delving into its history. Then, we see the majestic Iolani Palace from the outside, which is recognized as a symbol of the rich history and culture of Hawaii. Nearby is the monument of King Kamehameha and Queen Liliuokalani, which is an important element of the archipelago’s heritage. The last stop of our journey is a visit to the city hall and the governor’s residence, where we experience the atmosphere of contemporary life in Hawaii.

After a day full of impressions, we savor the local cuisine, enjoying Hawaiian flavors at one of the charming restaurants in Honolulu.

OAHU ISLAND

We start the day with a visit to the Halona geyser, Hanauma Bay, and the Makapuu lookout point to enjoy the views and nature.

After an intensive sightseeing tour, we stop for lunch at Waimanalo Beach. We also visit the Byodo-In Temple, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of its surroundings. We won’t forget to visit the famous surfing beaches Sunset and Waimea, and we end the day at the Dole pineapple plantation, uncovering the secrets of their cultivation.

After a day full of experiences, we relax at the hotel, enjoying the joy of shared adventures and breathtaking views of Oahu Island.

ISLAND OF MOLOKAI

Early in the morning, we embark on a journey to the island of Molokai. Upon arrival at the airport, we meet with a guide who takes us to the heart connected with Father Damien, the Guardian of Lepers. You explore the Kalaupapa Peninsula, the village of the same name, and St. Joseph’s Church. Then, you drive to Kalawao, where we visit St. Philomena’s Church and the tomb with relics of Father Damien. After some moments of relaxation on the island, lunch outdoors, we return to Oahu, carrying with us unforgettable memories.

HANAUMA BAY

After an exciting journey around the island of Molokai, we arrive at the charming nature reserve – Hanauma Bay. It is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii, where the combination of crystal-clear water, colorful coral reefs, and picturesque beaches enchants our senses. We spend unforgettable moments sunbathing on the white sand, snorkeling in tropical waters, and observing the fascinating underwater world. Here, we encounter an abundance of colorful fish and other marine creatures, making this place a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

HAWAII - POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER

The day begins with carefree relaxation on the Hawaiian beach, where we indulge in blissful rest and the soothing sound of waves. In the afternoon, we set off on a journey to the Polynesian Cultural Center, stopping at the picturesque Pali lookout point, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

At the center, we participate in fascinating performances in the national village exhibits, discovering the richness of Samoan, New Zealand, Fijian, Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Tongan cultures. We are transported back in time, learning about the traditions, dances, and customs of these islands. Then, we immerse ourselves in extraordinary sensations during the water show and watch a film about life in the ocean. After the performances, we head to an exquisite buffet dinner, savoring the various flavors of Hawaiian cuisine.

To conclude this day full of attractions, we dive into the magic of the grand evening show “HORIZONS”, which provides us with unforgettable experiences and emotions. It’s a day full of adventures, discoveries, and unforgettable experiences.

DIAMOND HEAD VOLCANO

On this day, we embark on an unforgettable trip to the summit of the dormant volcano Diamond Head, whose characteristic silhouette towers over the Waikiki resort. We admire panoramic views of Hawaii and the surrounding ocean, enjoying the joy of this unique experience.

We continue our adventure with a stroll through the tropical jungle to the Manoa waterfall. We open our senses to the lush vegetation and birdsong, reaching the charming waterfall surrounded by dense forest. This magical place allows us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Hawaii and breathe in the fresh air of the tropical jungle.

WAIKIKI - CHICAGO

In the morning, we relax on the beautiful Waikiki Beach, where golden sands and the ocean’s sound surround us with blissful tranquility. At 12 o’clock, we check out of the hotel and head for shopping, exploring Hawaiian stores and searching for the perfect travel souvenir. We discover the richness of local culture through crafts and flavors of Hawaii.

In the evening, we prepare for our departure to the mainland. Although we are leaving Hawaii, they will remain with us forever as a wonderful memory.

If you are looking for further spiritual experiences, we also recommend:

Pilgrimage to Greece – in the footsteps of faith.

See also:

Roof of Africa. Expedition to Kilimanjaro 2025