Kalaupapa cannot be reached by automobile. No roads lead to the park because of the surrounding ocean and steep pali cliffs. The park can be reached by air from Oahu, Maui and Ho'olehua, Moloka'i located topside. Flights to Kalaupapa Airport (LUP) can be arranged through Pacific Wings (#1.888.575.4546); Moloka'i Air Shuttle (#808.567.6847); and Paragon Air (#1.800.4228.1231).

Visitors may also reach the Kalaupapa peninsula by hiking or riding mules down the steep Kalaupapa Trail from the topside trailhead located off Highway 470 near Pala'au State Park and the Kalaupapa overlook. The trail links topside Moloka'i to the Kalaupapa Settlement and has a 1700 foot elevation change, is three miles long and has twenty-six switchbacks. At the bottom of the trail, visitors must connect with the commercial tour. Father Damian Tours, owned and operated by a Kalaupapa resident offers visitors a tour of Kalaupapa Settlement and Kalawao. (#808.567.6171)

Trail conditions can be wet and muddy in the winter and hot and humid in the summer. Footing can be slippery. A rain jacket is recommended as well as a brimmed hat and sunscreen. Visitors who hike the trail should carry plenty of water.  Mule rides can be arranged theough Moloka'i Mule Rides, Inc., a National Park Service concession. (#808.567.6088 or #1.800.567.7550)