Big Island Volcano Tours


Explore the Wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park!

Lava crusting over, seen from a distance on a Big Island Volcano tour.

Big Island Volcano Tours: Hiking tours vs. Sightseeing tours

There are two main types of Big Island volcano tours: sightseeing tours and hiking tours. The primary focus for both tours is a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Both tours will stop at the park’s main attractions. Stops include an overlook at Kilauea’s active crater, steam vents, a lava tube, and lava fields. Lunch, water, snacks, ground transportation, and admission fees are included with both types of tours. Here’s how the two types of tours differ.
 

Hiking Volcano Tours 

Hiking tours will spend a few more hours in the park doing a hike that will take you closer to the crater’s edge. These hikes are around 3 miles long, rated moderate, and may include some steep but short inclines. Additionally, hiking tours are typically led by a naturalist guide. As a result, these tours tend to be more educational. You’ll learn much more about Hawaii’s natural history and the area’s flora and fauna than you would on a sightseeing tour.
 

Sightseeing Volcano Tours 

While a sightseeing volcano tour is less strenuous, there are plenty of stops where you can get out of the van and explore. These tours usually include additional stops in the Hilo area. Stops at local waterfalls Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls are usually on the itinerary. As are historic stops in Hilo town such as Liliuokalani Gardens and the King Kamehameha statue. Your guide may also take you to a local business or a black sand beach if there’s time.
 
Note: Lava sightings are never guaranteed. Check the USGS site for Kilauea’s current conditions.

Volcano Adventure Tour (from Hilo)

Tour Length

8 hours

Price

$187.00

Embark on an epic adventure! Spend the day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, and historic Hilo town. Picnic lunch included.
Fully narrated, eight hour guided tour of the Big Island’s best attractions
Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, waterfalls, rainforests, and historic Hilo
Hotel pick-up/drop-off and a picnic lunch included

Elite Volcano Hike (from Kona)

Tour Length

13 hours

Price

$295.99

Explore the top spots in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with a park certified guide! All fees, meals, and transportation from Kona included.
Kona-area Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off
Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hike Halemaumau and Crater Rim
Explore Kaumana Lava Tube Caves
Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Comfortable tour vehicle featuring panoramic windows