Adventure Collective
Explore Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park: Ultimate Volcano Adventure from Hilo - Hilo

Explore Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park: Ultimate Volcano Adventure from Hilo

Hilomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

10–11 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in moderate physical shape, able to handle walking on uneven ground and standing during commentary periods.

Overview

Experience the raw power of Kilauea volcano and the lush beauty of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on a full-day adventure from Hilo. See towering waterfalls, ancient lava tubes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes transformed by the 2018 eruption.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawai'i Island Volcano Adventure Tour (from Hilo) H2

Bus Tour

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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where you'll witness the dramatic changes from the 2018 eruption. Explore stunning waterfalls, ancient lava tubes, and breathtaking coastal views. This comprehensive tour offers a unique glimpse into the island's volcanic landscape, making it a truly memorable experience.

Hawai'i Island Volcano Tour Adventure

The Ultimate Experience

Discover the source of Hawai’i Island’s creation at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park! Explore cascading waterfalls, craters, and the tsunami-stricken city of Hilo on this comprehensive volcano adventure tour. Bear witness to the 2018 eruption that drastically altered the island’s landscape. Peer into the depths of Halemaumau Crater which has remarkably doubled in size and watch steam clouds form as ground water seeps onto hot volcanic rock at the famous Steam Vents.

Enjoy an included lunch. Marvel at not one by two spectacular waterfalls – Rainbow and Akaka Falls. Gaze at sweeping coastal views at Kealakomo Overlook where older lava flows melted into the ocean. Drive down scenic Chain of Craters Road.

Tour Highlights:

  • Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
  • Halema’uma’u Crater – viewed from a lookout point; remarkably changed in size since June 2018
  • Steam Vents – ground water seeps down to hot volcanic rocks forming steam clouds
  • Kilauea Iki Overlook – smaller pit crater next to main Kilauea caldera
  • Chain of Craters Road – scenic drive; sections covered by lava in 2018 Kilauea eruption
  • Kealakomo Overlook – sweeping coastal views, expansive view of lava fields
  • Nahuku Lava Tube – walk through an ancient lava tube amidst a beautiful rainforest
  • Rainbow Falls – waterfall cascades to a pool below, rainbows magically form in the mist
  • Akaka Falls – Set in a rainforest filled with bamboo groves, orchids and hanging ferns.
  • Hilo Town – drive past Banyan Drive and Liliuokalani Gardens.

Departure & Return Location

  • Round-trip hotel transportation is included from convenient locations in Hilo.
  • If you are staying in the Kona area, we do not pickup in Kona.
  • If your hotel or the place you are staying is not listed, we will pick you up at the closest location.
  • Tour departs the first pickup location at 7:30 AM and returns at approximately 6:00 PM.
  • 24 hours prior to your tour, please re-confirm your pick up time and location by calling 808-833-3000.

Times Depart: 7:30 AM Return: 6:00 PM

Price Includes

  • Round-Trip Transportation in Air-Conditioned Comfort
  • Expert, Live Narration
  • Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park Admission
  • Akaka Falls State Park Admission
  • To-Go Lunch

Cancellation Policy: If this tour is canceled with more than 48 hours notice, the total amount is refunded. If the tour is canceled without 48 hours notice, full charges apply. No shows incur full charges. Claims for refunds must be made within thirty days of the date of service. Refunds or partial refunds for tours, activities, flights, or venues that are cancelled due to reasons outside of our control (weather, force majeure, etc.) as well as refunds for extenuating circumstances will not be honored.

Adventure Tips

Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes

Trails include uneven volcanic terrain and rainforest paths, so solid footwear is essential for safety and comfort.

Bring layers and a jacket

Temperatures vary from tropical Hilo to cooler volcanic highlands, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.

Stay hydrated throughout the day

The tour lasts over 10 hours and involves walking; bring water or use provided refreshments to prevent fatigue.

Check for respiratory advisories

Volcanic gases can affect those with heart or respiratory issues; consult guides and heed health warnings before booking.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Nene (Hawaiian goose)
  • Hawaiian hawk

History

The park was established in 1916 and preserves one of the world’s most active volcanic landscapes, pivotal in understanding island formation.

Conservation

Efforts focus on protecting fragile native flora and fauna while managing visitor impact on volcanic terrain and rainforest ecosystems.

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Adventure Hotspots in Hilo

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sturdy hiking shoes

Essential

Ensure firm footing on volcanic rock and rainforest trails.

Lightweight jacket or long-sleeve shirt

Essential

Keep warm in cooler park elevations and shield against wind.

Camera

Essential

Capture the dramatic vistas and waterfalls throughout the day.

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during the extensive outdoor portions of the tour.