Kazumura Cave, stretching 65 km long and over 0.8 km deep, is one of the largest lava tubes with approximately 100 entrances.
While Hawaii is home to numerous lava tubes across the islands, the world’s largest lava tube is Kazumura Cave, located about 19.3 km south of Hilo (a town on the Big Island), according to IFL Science. This cave extends over 65 km in length and exceeds 0.8 km in depth, making it the longest and deepest lava tube on the planet.
Inside Kazumura Cave in Hawaii. (Photo: Wikipedia).
According to native Polynesians, there are an estimated 100 entrances to the cave, believed to be associated with the fire goddess Pele, and many influential individuals have been buried there throughout the ages. However, humans often utilize the cave’s tunnels for various practical purposes.
During difficult times, locals could seek refuge in the cave from harsh weather or evade enemies. Archaeological excavations have uncovered many stone tools and other artifacts within the cave. Some rock alcoves were also transformed into primitive living spaces, complete with hearths and sleeping areas. The lava tube serves as a suitable source for collecting water, as there are very few lakes and streams on the Hawaiian islands. People can delve deep into the lava tube to collect water that drips from the cave’s ceiling, filtered through the porous volcanic rock above. Kazumura Cave symbolizes the relationship between Hawaii’s geological past and its cultural history.
As a chain of islands formed by volcanic activity, Hawaii boasts numerous scattered lava tubes. Essentially, these are underground tubes created by flowing lava. When the lava ceases to erupt from a volcano or changes direction, the flow can leave behind massive empty tunnels, forming a network of caves. The walls and ceilings of these tunnels often have dripping formations resembling wax from candles.
Typically, it takes about a year for lava to cool down enough for living organisms to access, but the cave networks are quickly colonized by various cave-dwelling creatures, including insects, spiders, and bacteria.
