Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark in Haikou

When traveling to Hainan, there is much more to discover beyond blue seas and coconut-lined beaches. On the outskirts of Haikou lies a world-class geological wonder—Leiqiong Global Geopark (Haikou Volcanic Cluster Park, 海口火山群园区). Home to one of China's rare tropical volcanic landscapes located close to a major city, this remarkable area preserves traces of volcanic eruptions that took place tens of thousands of years ago.

Here, volcanic landforms, tropical forests, and traditional villages shaped by volcanic culture come together in one fascinating landscape. Visitors can explore the geological secrets of the Earth, walk through lush mountain scenery, and enjoy a refreshing escape into nature, making it one of Haikou's most distinctive destinations.

Ancient Volcanoes and the Geological History of the Earth

Located in Shishan Town (石山镇), Xiuying District, approximately 15 kilometers from downtown Haikou, the park is home to more than 40 volcanic cones and over 30 lava tunnels, forming one of the best-preserved Quaternary volcanic landscapes in the region.

The park's signature attraction is Ma'anling Volcano (马鞍岭火山), one of the highest points in northern Hainan, with an elevation of 222.8 meters. Formed by multiple volcanic structures, its shape resembles a saddle, giving the mountain its name. It is the geographical and visual centerpiece of the volcanic park.

Climb the stone steps to the summit viewing platform, where a sweeping 360-degree panorama opens up before you. On clear days, visitors can look across Haikou's urban landscape and toward the vast Qiongzhou Strait, while a series of volcanic hills stretches across the surrounding green countryside.

Following the walking trails downhill leads toward the bottom of the Fengluling Crater (风炉岭火山口). Its enormous funnel-shaped depression is surrounded by rock walls marked with distinctive honeycomb-like patterns formed by ancient basaltic lava. Standing inside this volcanic landscape offers a powerful sense of the forces that shaped the region thousands of years ago.

The park also includes lava tunnels and volcanic caves such as Xiaren Cave (仙人洞) and Wolong Cave (卧龙洞). The interiors remain naturally cool and relatively stable in temperature, while folds and textures left behind by flowing lava can still be seen on the rock walls, revealing fascinating details of ancient volcanic activity.

Tropical Forests and Ancient Villages Shaped by Volcanoes

Volcanic landscapes are not only dramatic—they also support a surprisingly vibrant tropical ecosystem. More than a thousand species of tropical plants grow among the cracks and crevices of the volcanic rock. Ancient banyan trees, fragrant rosewood trees, and dense tropical shrubs fill the mountains with greenery.

Walking along the forest trails, visitors are surrounded by lush vegetation and fresh air, creating the feeling of a natural green oasis and an easy escape from the city.

The volcanic region also has a distinctive cultural landscape. Nearby villages, including Rongtang Village (荣堂村), have developed a unique architectural style shaped by the availability of local volcanic stone. Residents traditionally used dark basalt to build houses and courtyard walls, and many stone homes, stone mills, and narrow stone lanes can still be found today.

These villages tell the story of how local communities adapted to life in a volcanic landscape and developed practical traditions based on the natural resources around them.

Within the park, the Volcano Science Museum introduces the formation and development of volcanoes through models, geological specimens, and visual displays. The exhibits are designed to make geological knowledge easier to understand, making the park particularly suitable for family visits and educational travel. It is a place where visitors can explore and learn at the same time, gaining a clearer understanding of the past and present of Hainan's volcanoes.

Taste the Local Flavors Shaped by Volcanic Land

The mineral-rich volcanic landscape has also influenced the region's local food culture. A visit to Shishan is a good opportunity to discover several distinctive local specialties.

One of the best-known dishes is Shishan Yong Sheep (石山壅羊). The sheep graze on wild grasses and vegetation growing on the volcanic slopes, and the meat is known locally for its firm texture and mild flavor with very little gaminess. It can be enjoyed in different preparations, including simply sliced and served or slowly simmered in a clear broth.

Another local specialty is Shishan Black Tofu, traditionally made with local spring water. It has a rich soybean aroma and a smooth, delicate texture.

The volcanic soil also supports the cultivation of seasonal fruits such as lychees and wampee (黄皮). These fruits are associated with the mineral-rich environment and offer a sweet, juicy taste of Hainan's tropical countryside.

After exploring the volcanoes, enjoying a meal featuring these local specialties is a great way to experience the flavors and everyday life of the volcanic region.

Why Visit Leiqiong Global Geopark?

Unlike the romantic beaches and tropical resorts that many travelers associate with Hainan, Leiqiong Global Geopark offers a completely different kind of experience—one shaped by the powerful forces beneath the Earth's surface.

Here, dramatic volcanic landforms, peaceful tropical forests, and traditional villages built from volcanic stone create a destination that combines sightseeing, hiking, nature exploration, and geological education.

Whether you are planning a short half-day excursion from Haikou or a more in-depth educational journey, a visit to this ancient volcanic landscape offers the opportunity to step into a world shaped thousands of years ago.

When exploring Haikou, take a break from the beaches and walk into this remarkable volcanic sanctuary. Discover ancient craters, lava tunnels, tropical greenery, and villages shaped by volcanic rock—and begin a fascinating journey into the geological history of Hainan and the Earth itself.