On Haleakala, Day 10

And once again, a volcano was on the agenda. This time we drove up to the highest mountain on Maui, Haleakala (10,023 feet / 3,055 meters). Unfortunately, Pele, the goddess of volcanoes, had no mercy on us and hid the mountain in thick clouds. But weatherproof as we are, that didn't stop us. 18 miles and half an hour later, we reached the summit. There, a true rarity awaits. The silversword only grows here worldwide. Despite a lifespan of up to 50 years, it only blooms once. After that, it dies. On the way back, a short trail and then it was downhill again. Through an estimated 30 hairpin turns and thick clouds. But wait, what was that? We were able to photograph a Nene by the roadside. The Nene is the national bird of Hawaii. After a short stop in Makawao, a small town with Western-style houses, we finally began the journey back to our accommodation.