Leiqiong Haikou Volcanic Cluster World Geopark
A UNESCO-recognized geological wonder, this park preserves China’s youngest volcanic cluster, with 40 dormant volcanoes and 30 lava caves dating back 13,000 years. Nestled in Haikou’s subtropical hinterland, it’s a surreal landscape of black basalt columns, steaming fumaroles, and orchid-filled craters, offering a rare glimpse into Earth’s fiery past.
Historical Overview
Formed during the Quaternary glaciation, the volcanoes erupted in staggered bursts between 10,000 BCE and 1050 CE, leaving behind lunar-like terrains. Local Li and Han communities later carved volcanic stone into “cobblestone houses” and grinding tools, with some structures dating to the Song Dynasty. In 2006, the park became China’s first urban volcanic geopark, blending geotourism with ecological conservation.
Structural Layout
The park spans two zones:
North Zone: The Ma’anling Volcano (a twin-crater giant) and Lungong Temple (a Taoist shrine built into lava flows).
South Zone: Rongshui Village (a “living volcanic museum” with stone houses) and the Volcanic Geological Museum.
Key trails include the Lava Tunnel Boardwalk and Crater Observatory (360-degree views of Haikou).
Major Attractions
Ma’anling Volcano: Climb 222 steps to the rim of a 100-meter-deep caldera; peer into its steaming vent.
Lava Tunnel: Explore a 2-km-long cave with basalt “organ pipes” and ancient charcoal carvings.
Stone Village: A UNESCO-listed hamlet with walls, wells, and tombs carved from volcanic rock.
Geological Museum: Interactive exhibits on plate tectonics and a 4D film simulating an eruption.
Tropical Orchid Garden: 300+ species of orchids thriving in volcanic soil.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route (2 hours):
Visitor Center → Ma’anling Crater → Lungong Temple → Orchid Garden.
Highlights: Caldera views and cultural sites.
Adventure Route (4 hours):
Add the Lava Tunnel, Stone Village, and a 1-km hike to Fengshou Waterfall.
Highlights: Caving, heritage homes, and jungle trails.
Geology Immersion (Full Day):
Include workshops on volcanic stone carving and a guided tour of the Volcanic Soil Farm (taste coffee grown in ash-rich soil).
Highlights: Hands-on learning and local cuisine.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official park website (7 days prior).
On-Site: Tickets at the Visitor Center; arrive early for weekend slots.
Prices: ¥60 (adults), ¥30 (students/seniors). Free: Children under 1.2m.
Combo Ticket: ¥100 (includes stone carving workshop).
Transportation
Bus: Route 3 from Haikou East Railway Station to “Shishan” Stop (40 mins), then ¥10 motorbike taxi.
Taxi: ¥40–50 from downtown Haikou; negotiate return fare.
Self-Drive: Free parking at Visitor Center (¥5 for electric vehicle charging).
Best Time & Tips
Quiet Hours: Visit weekdays or after 3 PM (crowds peak 10 AM–2 PM).
Seasonal Highlights: November–February (cool, dry weather); avoid August (rainy season).
Essentials: Hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes (uneven lava terrain).
Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight for the Lava Tunnel—and try volcanic-ash bread from the village bakery!
