hawaii volcano national park tours from hilo

5 Best Hilo Volcano Tours in Big Island of Hawaii (2024)

Looking for the best Hilo volcano tours on your trip to the Big Island of Hawaii?

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was a bucket-list experience for me in Hawaii and a top priority attraction on my Big Island trip.

The Volcanoes Park is renowned for its extraordinary geological features and is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

I visited the Volcanoes Park with my family and loved exploring its various features, such as lava tubes, steam vents, and volcanic craters.

Many cruise ship visitors arrive at the Hilo port, and taking a Hawaii Volcanoes tour is the best way to experience the Volcanoes Park. This is the most unique and popular excursion in Hawaii.

Taking a volcano tour from Hilo with an expert guide ensures you do not miss out on any must-see sights! You will also learn much more about the volcanoes by taking a tour than you would if driving yourself.

Do not have time to read the whole article? Here is my top pick for the best volcano tour from Hilo –

➡ Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights – Best Road Tour , half-day tour ideal for inter-island and cruise ship visitors.

➡ Volcanoes Helicopter Tour from Hilo – Best Helicopter Tour with epic aerial views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and rainforests. Great for those short on time.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Hilo Volcano Tours

#1 Top Pick

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Volcanoes Helicopter Tour from Hilo ✔️ Bucket list experience, 1-hour flight from Hilo! ✔️ Aerial views of Volcanoes Park, rainforests, waterfalls

#2 Top Pick

Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights ✔️ Half-day, Volcanoes Park and Hilo highlights ✔️great for cruise ship and inter-island visitors

#3 Top Pick

Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights (Small Group) ✔️ Half-day, Volcanoes Park and Hilo highlights ✔️ great for cruise ship and inter-island visitors

Looking for a volcano tour from Kona instead? Check out the best volcano tours from Kona and Waikoloa regions on Big Island of Hawaii.

Taking a volcano tour is one of the top things to do in Kona !

5 Best Volcano Tours from Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is closer to Hilo than Kona , and one of the top excursions from Hilo. Hilo is around 29 miles and a 45-minute drive from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Most volcano tours from Hilo are half-day tours and perfect for Hilo shore excursions for cruise ship passengers. You do not have to worry about rental cars and routes or making it back to Hilo Port in time.

These volcano tours explore all the main sights in Volcanoes Park and other nearby must-see attractions like black sand beach, Hilo waterfalls, and rainforests. Some tours even include a stop at a Kona coffee farm.

If constrained on time, I highly recommend taking a helicopter tour of Voclanoes park from Hilo instead of a road tour.

Below are the best Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours from Hilo:

1. Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour from Hilo

⭐ Ratings: 5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration: 1 hour | ✅ Book Now

One of the most exceptional ways to witness the magnificent aerial scenery of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, as well as the Big Island’s waterfalls and valleys, is by taking this helicopter tour from Hilo to the volcanoes .

This 1-hour helicopter tour from Hilo airport covers amazing aerial views of the active Kilauea crater and other features of the Volcanoes Park. If there is volcanic activity happening at the time of your visit, you might even get to see lava flow.

Fly over the lush rainforests and valleys of Hilo. See amazing waterfalls and learn about the Island’s history from your pilot.

Highlights of this Volcanoes helicopter tour Hilo:

• Experience the thrill of flying over the active Kilauea volcano in Volcanoes National Park and take in stunning aerial vistas of the Kilauea crater.
• Observing lava flow is possible if there is volcanic activity occurring in Volcanoes Park!
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Big Island, orchid farms, lush rainforests, valleys, and waterfalls.

What this helicopter tour includes:

Who is this helicopter tour for.

• This tour is ideal for those with limited time in Hilo and Big Island.
• For anyone who wants to experience a helicopter tour and enjoy aerial views of the volcanoes, waterfalls, and valleys, this tour is a perfect choice.
• This tour is great for people who want awesome aerial photos of the volcanoes!

First time on a helicopter and had a very good experience. Debated for weeks on the cost vs experience. Totally worth it! Our pilot had a nice easy vibe and was the kind of person who you would like to hang out with. Looking down from above into the volcano, it’s vents and sink holes was amazing. – MArtin (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for the Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour from Hilo

2. Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights

⭐ Ratings : 4.5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 6 hours | ✅ Book Now

This half-day Hilo shore excursion tour with pickup and dropoff from Hilo port is best suited for cruise ship passengers coming into the Hilo port for a day.

The tour also picks up from most Hilo hotels and is great for anyone wanting a tour of the Volcanoes park and Hilo highlights, including inter-island visitors .

This 6-hour tour from Hilo packs a lot, including Volcanes Park, waterfalls, a black sand beach, Hilo downtown, and a local store to purchase home-grown goodies like chocolates, nuts, and coffee.

On this tour, explore the main sights of the Volcanoes park, including the active Kilauea volcano , Thurston lava tube , steam vents, sulfur banks, and scenic viewpoints.

Explore the main highlights of Hilo, like the famous Rainbow Falls and Liliuokalani Gardens , an ornamental Japanese garden.

Pass by Banyan Drive and see some massive banyan trees planted by celebrities, also called the ‘Hilo Walk of Fame.’ Drive by Hilo downtown and see the King Kamehameha Statue.

Visit a black sand beach and spot some Hawaiian green sea turtles ! The black sand is made of tiny lava rock particles and is the coolest thing I have ever seen! Visiting a black sand beach is a must-do thing in Hawaii!!

This tour will also take you to a local goodies store where you can purchase home-grown items like chocolates, macadamia nuts, and local coffee . Makes great gifts and souvenirs!

Highlights of this Hilo Shore excursion volcanoes tour:

• Half-day tour from Hilo to Volcanoes Park, Hilo waterfalls, gardens, and black sand beach
• Visit top sights in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, like Kilauea volcano, Thurston lava tube, steam vents, sulfur banks, scenic viewpoints, and much more.
• Visit a local black sand beach and spot Hawaiian sea turtles!
• See the popular Rainbow Falls and Japanese Liliuokalani Gardens
• Drive by downtown Hilo and Banyan Drive and see massive banyan trees planted by celebrities
• Visit a local goodies store to purchase home-grown chocolates and macadamia nuts and sample home-grown Kona Coffee.

What this tour includes:

Who is this tour for.

• This half-day Volcanoes tour is ideal for cruise ship passengers coming to Hilo Port or anyone wanting a Volcanoes and Hilo highlights tour.
• Visitors looking for value and do not mind a slightly larger group of a maximum of 24 people , best value price-wise.

Our guide was very good, and he allowed just the right amount of time to view everything. Highlight was seeing actual volcanic eruptions, though everything we saw on this excursion was interesting. He got us back to the ship in plenty of time for it’s departure. – Alan (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights

3. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour

⭐ Ratings : 5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 5 and half hours | ✅ Book Now

This half-day tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the Volcanoes Park’s top attractions and get in-depth knowledge about the geology and history of the volcanoes.

This half-day Volcanoes tour is perfect for cruise ship passengers coming to the Hilo port as well as visitors coming for a day trip to Hilo from other Hawaiian islands like Oahu and Maui .

A half-day tour ensures that you will not miss your departure flight or cruise departure time.

In Volcanoes Park, you will see the active Kilauea volcano from the Halema’uma’u Crater Overlook and visit the Thurston lava tube , which is really cool and a must-see!

You will also visit other sights like the steam vents and drive on the Chain of Craters Road .

Along with the Volcanoes park, also visit top sights in Hilo like Rainbow Falls and Liliuokalani Gardens.

Rainbow Falls have an impressive 80-foot drop surrounded by lush greenery, and you can sometimes witness a rainbow near the waterfalls!

Liliuokalani Gardens is a beautiful Japanese-style garden with fishponds and native plants.

This tour also stops at a local chocolates and nuts store where you can purchase island-grown chocolates and macadamia nuts and sample delicious Kona coffee !

Yes, Big Island has farms that grow cacao, coffee beans, and macadamia nuts! We had so much fun at a cacao farm, seeing how chocolate is made and sampling some, too!

A small group tour with a maximum of 12 passengers allows for more attention from the guide to answer your questions and a more personalized experience.

Highlights of this Small-group Volcano tour from Hilo:

• Half-day small group tour from Hilo to Volcanoes Park and covers Hilo highlights.
• Visit top sights in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park like Kilauea volcano, Halema’uma’u Crater overlook, Thurston lava tube, steam vents, Chain of Craters road, and much more.
• See the popular Rainbow Falls and Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo.
• Visit a local store to purchase island-grown chocolates and macadamia nuts and sample home-grown Kona Coffee.
• A professional guide with expert insights about the Big Island Volcanoes’ history and geology will ensure all your questions are answered.
• This half-day Volcanoes tour is ideal for anyone looking to cover the top attractions in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo ‘s waterfalls, gardens, and other sights.
• This tour is the best fit for cruise ship passengers coming to Hilo Port and visitors coming for a day trip from other islands like Oahu and Maui .

Having grown up in the area, our guide’s personal experiences brought wonderful insights into what it’s like to live around and experience volcanic events. She also knew the best areas to experience Volcanoes National Park. It was super easy to meet her at the cruise dock and we got back in plenty of time for our departure. – millie (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour

4. Evening Volcano Explorer Tour from Hilo

⭐ Ratings : 4.5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 6-7 hours | ✅ Book Now

This Evening volcano explorer tour from Hilo starts around 12:30 PM and is 6 to 7 hours long.

This evening tour is ideal if you are planning to spend the night in Hilo as you can visit the Volcanoes Park in the evening and catch a glimpse of sunset and lava glow, depending on volcanic activity in the park.

The tour starts with a drive around downtown Hilo and then travels along the scenic coast to the village of Kalapana which was destroyed by the advancing lava in the 1990s.

Visit the Star of the Sea Painted Church, a national historic place. This church was moved twice to protect it from the lava! Visit the black sand beach in Kalapana.

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with your certified guide and see the active Kilauea volcano, Kilauea Iki crater overlook , steaming bluffs , and other viewpoints.

Learn about the geology and history of the volcanoes from your National Park Service-certified guide as well as about the flora and fauna in the area. Enjoy a deli picnic-style dinner as part of the tour.

Highlights of this Evening Volcano Explorer Tour:

• 6-7 hour evening tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Starts around 12:30 PM.
• Explore the Volcanoes Park with a certified guide, covering all the top sights – Kilauea crater, Thurston lava tube, steaming bluffs, and much more.
• Visit the village of Kalapana, destroyed by advancing lava in the 1990s, and the nearby black sand beach.
• The tour includes a couple of short hikes to explore park features
• Visit the Star of the Sea Painted Church, a national historic site.
• This tour includes a deli-style picnic dinner.
• This tour is ideal for anyone who wants an evening tour of the Volcanoes Park from Hilo and a chance to see the lava glow at sunset (depending on the volcanic activity at the time of your visit).

Awesome tour with a great guide. Not only did he explain everything you need to know about volcanoes, but made it interesting and easy to understand with a sense of humor and folklore stories thrown in. – Dorothy (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for Evening Volcano Explorer Tour from Hilo

5. Private Tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

⭐ Ratings : 5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 6 hours | ✅ Book Now

This private half-day tour of the Volcanoes National Park and other sights in Hilo is ideal for you if you want to be with just your group and have a more customized experience visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

With a private tour, you have the freedom to tailor your itinerary to your preferences, including stopping at cafes and restaurants whenever you choose.

Although the tour provides a recommended itinerary, you can adjust it to suit the requirements of your group and allocate more time to the attractions that interest you!

If you’re traveling with a party of 5-6 people or more, the expense of a private tour would be comparable or lower than that of a group tour! Additionally, your group will receive the guide’s undivided focus and care.

Highlights of this private volcano tour from Hilo:

• A private half-day tour from Hilo just for your group gives a more personalized experience
• Explore Volcanoes Park sights such as the active Kilauea volcano, the epic Halemaumau crater, Thurston lava tube, steam vents, pit craters, and much more.
• You can choose to spend more or all of your time exploring the Volcanoes park or save time for Hilo waterfalls and black sand beach. Customize your itinerary to fit your group’s interests.

What this private volcano tour includes:

Who is this private volcanoes tour for.

• This private tour is ideal for anyone who wants a private customizable tour of Volcanoes National Park and Hilo.
• This private tour is also great for larger groups of 5-6 people or more, as the cost would be comparable to a group tour or even less for larger groups.

Our guide was very knowledgeable, accommodating and extremely welcoming. This was the best tour we have ever taken. – Rhonda (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for a – Private Tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

FAQs about Volcano Tours from Hilo

Below are some frequently asked questions about visiting Volcanoes Park from Hilo and Volcano tours on the Big Island of Hawaii.

How can I see the volcano in Hilo?

To see the active Kilauea volcano, you would need to either drive yourself to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or take a tour from Hilo. Going around 30 miles south on Highway 11 from Hilo will bring you to the National Park entrance.

Once inside the park, you can drive to the Kilauea overlook on Crater Rim Drive to see the active Kilauea volcano within the caldera of the Halemaumau crater.

Can you tour a volcano on the Big Island?

To truly experience the wonders of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Big Island, a volcano tour by road or helicopter is highly recommended. By choosing a knowledgeable guide, you’ll be able to explore the top sights within the park while learning about the geology and history of the volcanoes.

Big Island’s Kilauea and Mauna Loa are the most active volcanoes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

How much does a volcano tour cost in Hawaii?

A group road tour to the Volcanoes park from Hilo will cost somewhere between $150 and $200, depending on the tour group size.

A volcano helicopter tour from Hilo costs between $300 and $350 per person.

A private volcano tour from Hilo costs between $1200 to $1700 per group of up to 10 guests.

What is the best volcano to visit on the Big Island?

Big Island’s Kilauea volcano is the most active and readily accessible volcano in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This active volcano erupts from the Halemaumau crater, and there are several viewpoints from which you can safely observe the Kilauea activity. One popular option is the overlook at Volcano House.

Is Hilo or Kona closer to the volcano?

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is just a 45-minute car ride away from Hilo, while it takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by car to get there from Kona.

If you’re looking to visit Volcanoes Park, Hilo is a more convenient location than Kona since it’s closer to the park. However, most of the top family resorts in Hawaii are located in Kona, where most people choose to stay.

If you are visiting another Hawaiian Island and are planning to do a Big Island day trip , then flying into Hilo will be a better option as it is closer to the Volcanoes Park.

Is lava visible on the Big Island?

The possibility of witnessing lava in Big Island and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park largely depends on whether there is any ongoing volcanic activity during your visit. Kilauea, the island’s most active volcano, usually erupts within the Halemaumau crater. To check for recent eruptions, it is recommended to visit the NPS website .

There are several overlooks around the Halemaumau crater that offer a glimpse of the volcanic activity. One such spot is the Keanakāko’i Overlook, which can be accessed by taking a short hike from the Devastation trail parking lot. We were able to witness the glowing lava at night from this viewpoint.

Can you walk on a volcano in Hawaii?

Yes, you can walk on the floor of the former lava lake of the Kilauea crater by doing the Kilauea Iki hike in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. I believe this trail is one of the top hikes in both the park and the entire Big Island.

More things to do in Big Island

Add some of these excursions and activities to your Big Island itinerary:

• Snorkeling with the manta ray on the Big Island is a bucket-list activity. Make sure to book one of the snorkeling tours on Big Island .
• Taking a sunset cruise on Big Island was one of our best experiences!

Final takeaways: Best Volcano Tours in Hilo, Hawaii

Visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the most popular shore excursion on your visit to Hilo, Hawaii.

It is also one of the bucket-list experiences in any itinerary for Big Island of Hawaii .

Opting for a Big Island Volcanoes tour from Hilo is the most convenient way to discover the park’s volcanoes, geological wonders, and historical landmarks.

Taking a Hawaii volcano tour also ensures that you do not miss any must-see sights and are back in time for your cruise ship departure or inter-island flight.

Below is a quick summary of the best Hilo Volcano tours perfect for Hilo shore excursion:

• Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour from Hilo – Best helicopter tour from Hilo
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour – Half-day small group tour (12 passengers), ideal for cruise passengers and for visitors from other Hawaiian Islands like Oahu, Maui
• Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights – Half-day tour with a maximum of 24 passengers, covers Volcanoes, waterfall, black sand beach, and store stop to purchase island-grown goodies.
• Evening Volcano Explorer Tour from Hilo – An evening tour of the volcanoes park with a start time around 12:30 PM, includes a visit to Kalapana village and black sand beach. Includes picnic dinner.
• Private Tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Private tour just for your group, with a customizable itinerary. Spend more time in Volcanoes Park or add other stops like the black sand beach and Hilo Waterfalls.

Related Posts

Planning a trip to Big Island, Hawaii? Check out my other posts from the Big Island series:

7 Best Kona Snorkel Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

7 Best Kona Sunset Cruises in Big Island of Hawaii

9 Best Resorts on Big Island for Families

BEST one day in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Itinerary

BEST 7 day Big Island itinerary for epic Hawaii vacation

Anu Agarwal is the founder and author of vacation travel blog Destination Checkoff. Anu, a Northern California resident, and a regular nine-to-fiver, loves to vacation with her family to destinations all over the world. She is obsessed with doing endless research for her trips. She has traveled to several destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. With her blog, Anu is excited to share her destination itineraries and vacation travel guides and help you check those dream destinations off your bucket list!

THE 10 BEST Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tours & Excursions

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7. Big Island Highlights: Coffee, Volcano, Black Sands & Waterfall

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11. Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

12. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour

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Hawai’i Island Volcano Adventure Tour (From Hilo)

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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 .

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

Additional Info

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.

Tours Departing from Hilo

On the east side of the Island of Hawaii is historic downtown Hilo. Hilo has many hidden gems. Visitors can discover lush tropical rainforests, streaming waterfalls, exotic agricultural farms , and a local farm to fork dining. Hilo is also close to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you can explore lava tubes, sea arches and an active volcano.   Visit our activity desk in the Hilo Hawaiian hotel where helpful staff can guide you to your next Big Adventure!

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Elite Volcano Hike (From Hilo)

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A trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must for nearly all Big Island visitors. You could certainly try to create a do-it-yourself itinerary for a day trip to the park, but if you want to get the most out of your experience, traveling with a knowledgeable guide is the way to go. 

Sure, you could research the park’s attractions, natural history, volcanology, geology, flora and fauna on your own, but who has time for that? Instead, let a National Park Service certified guide take you to all the best spots and provide you with all the essential background information -  the stories, in-depth information, and cultural context that will enhance your experience and your appreciation for the natural wonders all around you. 

And they’ll even pick you up and drop you off right at your hotel, so you can leave the driving to a pro too! 

The first stop of the day will be at Kaumana Caves, just outside of Hilo. Kaumana is a massive lava tube created by Mauna Loa’s destructive 1881 eruption. Once you're done exploring the lava tube, you’ll head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to continue the adventure. Your tour will include stops at the park’s must-see-attractions and a short, three mile hike into Kilauea’s Caldera. 

Halema’uma’u Trail Hike: At just under three miles, this will be your longest hike of the day.  Starting from just behind the historic Volcano House hotel, the Crater Rim Trail has long been used by adventurers to hike into Kilauea’s caldera since it was first established in 1846. The trail slowly descends about 425 feet to the caldera floor, which recently doubled in size during the 2018 eruption.

The trail begins with a walk through ancient tree ferns, which is a great place to spot native birds such as the yellow ‘amakihi and the red ‘apapane. The landscape gradually becomes more barren as you approach the caldera and you’ll encounter boulders which came to rest along the trail during past rock slides and eruptions. You’ll also spot some of the marks left behind by the earliest tourists and historical figures, dating back to the early 1850’s.

Once you reach the caldera floor, you’ll have an opportunity to take in the massive, steaming, 1,000 foot deep pit. You’ll then hike up out of the caldera, skirting around the edge via the Byron Ledge Trail. This is a fairly steep ascent, about 400 feet in under half a mile, but it offers sweeping views and plenty of places where you’ll want to stop for photos and catch your breath. And once you reach the top you’ll enjoy a rewarding view of the caldera below.

Next you’ll hike to Waldron Overlook and enjoy views of Pu’u Pua’i and Iki Crater. Then, you’ll return to the Volcano House via the Old Crater Rim Drive , a closed park road which is slowly being consumed by vegetation and lava flows. You’ll enjoy a short break and great views once back at the Volcano House. Then your guide will take you to some of the other amazing sites and activities that the park has to offer, including:

• Kilauea Visitor Center
• Nahuku Lava Tube
• Look for Pele’s tears and lava trees in the lava flow of Mauna Ulu
• Option to return to the park after dinner for lava viewing (if it is present and conditions permit)       

Meals: A picnic lunch in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and a dinner at a restaurant in Volcano Village, just outside of the park, are included in the tour. There are several meal options available for both lunch and dinner. (You’ll be asked to pre order during the checkout process when making your reservation).  

Schedule:   Tours run every Wednesday and Saturday, year-round. Hilo area hotel pick-ups begin at 8:00 am, and guests can expect to return between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

Know Before You Book

Getting there.

Lava flowing is an act of nature, therefore we do not guarantee sighting of lava. Surface lava flows may be present but may not be visible due to environmental conditions or time constraints.

Guests must cancel tour no less than 48 hours before tour departure for a full refund.

We will not sell, share, or in any way release your personal information to any unrelated third parties. Please check out our full  Privacy Policy .

• Ground transportation to and from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 9-hour, fully narrated tour with a national park certified guide
• Entrance fees to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Picnic lunch
• Dinner at a Volcano Village restaurant

The tour begins in Hilo, travels to Kaumana Caves, then Hilo, then spends most of the day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. After a short dinner just outside the park boundary, the tour returns to Hilo. The tour may add on a lava viewing stop after dinner if lava is present and conditions permit. 

The tour has a twelve (12) person limit.

Lava sightings are not guaranteed. Eruptions are unpredictable and volcanic conditions are always changing. Weather conditions such as fog or rain may also obscure lava sightings even when present. Please check the USGS’s Volcano Updates site for the most current information.

Tours may be canceled due to inclement weather. If a tour cannot be rescheduled, you will be given a full refund.

48 hour notice (before scheduled tour departure) required in order to receive a full refund.

Lava fields are shadeless and can be hot, but it can also be windy and chilly at Kilauea’s summit. Dress comfortably in light, removable layers and bring along a light jacket or rain jacket. 

Lava rock is uneven, sharp, and slippery when wet. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes and long pants are highly recommended. Sandals, flip-flops, or any other type of slip-on shoes will not be accepted.

Sun and rain protection, a reusable water bottle, and a daypack to carry them in are recommended.

Yes, this tour is open to all ages.

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Best of Big Island and Volcanoes National Park

• Witness Kilauea volcano in Volcanoes National Park and the Thurston Lava Tube
• Look for sea turtles at Richardson Black Sand Beach
• Feel the spray of 80-foot-tall Rainbow Falls near Hilo
• Try macadamia nut candies and cookies at Big Island Candies
• Reflect in the lush Liliuokalani Japanese Garden

Join us on this magnificent Volcanoes National Park tour. This tour highlights some of the Big Island's most precious gems, such as rainforest waterfalls, black sand beaches, craters, lava tubes, and much more!

The first stop is at the Richardson Black Sand Beach, where sea turtles are usually spotted. The Black Sand Beach is a local favorite and is a great way to see how the ocean and volcanoes make fine black sand.

Next, you will pass through the historic town of Hilo and stop by a breathtaking 80 ft waterfall, Rainbow Falls. Once you leave Rainbow Falls, you will drive by the Japanese Gardens.

Your next stop will be Big Island Candies, which was established in 1977. Big Island Candies manufactures and markets fine quality macadamia nut candies and cookies, using 100 percent Hawaii-grown macadamia nuts, Kona coffee, island eggs, real butter and high-grade chocolate. Since its founding, Big Island Candies has continuously introduced new and imaginative products that "wow" both the eyes and taste buds of its growing legion of fans.

You will then make your way to the summit of Kilauea volcano at the Volcanoes National Park, the most highly regarded and revered volcanic area on Earth. The park dramatically displays the results of 70 million years of volcanism, migration, and evolution - processes that thrust a bare land from the sea and clothed it with unique ecosystems, and a distinct human culture. The park highlights two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, and offers insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and views of dramatic volcanic landscapes.

At the park, you will stop at the Visitor Center, and witness the spectacular Thurston Lava Tube, steam vents, sulfur banks, and fascinating scenic lookouts. There is a lunch stop made, where you can purchase lunch at your own expense. No trip to Hawaii is complete without a trip to Volcanoes National Park.

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Shore Excursion Details

Volcanoes national park, hilo, hawaii.

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• 4 1/2 hrs Estimate Duration

Spectacular volcanoes, craters and steam vents are waiting to be explored at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that has recently reopened after a period of tumultuous volcanic activity. The landscape of Volcanoes Park has dramatically changed as the floor of the Kilauea crater sunk over 1,500 feet and the overall caldera quadrupled in size and widened by over a square mile. Today, the explosive eruptions, earthquakes and ash clouds have been replaced by remarkable changes in the summit area. The highlights of this exciting tour include visits at each of the following destinations in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park while riding to each stop in comfort on a deluxe motor coach. Walk through the Kilauea Visitors Center to receive information on the Park’s current conditions, view educational exhibits and interact with park rangers. Enjoy unforgettable views of Kilauea from Volcano House, just a short walk across the street. Kilauea’s massive size and scale is realized from this vantage point. Then you’ll be engulfed in rising steam as ground water seeps down to the hot volcanic rocks at the Steam Vents. The area between the edge of Kilauea’s caldera and the outer cliffs are treeless because the extreme heat destroys their roots; only shallow-rooted grasses and other hearty plants survive here. On you return to the pier, visit the Big Island Candies Store. Established in 1977, each of its delectable candies and cookies are hand-crafted in this factory store. View the production process and see what goes into making these world famous Hawaiian treats. All products are made from only freshly roasted Big Island macadamia nuts and pure Kona and Ka‘u coffee from farms on the Big Island. Since its founding, Big Island Candies has continuously introduced new and imaginative products that "wow" both the eyes and taste buds of its growing legion of fans. The Volcanoes National Park Tour is not to be missed and includes round-trip transportation from the pier by deluxe motorcoach.

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Wildlife Tours

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• 3 Challenging

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Alerts in effect, born of fire, born of the sea.

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa - and is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Find out the current status of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes on this page, courtesy of the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park wants to help you plan like a park ranger with five insightful tips to help you navigate the busy season.

Expect closures and delays due to a two-year construction project to repair or remove damaged buildings and infrastructure at the summit.

From wilderness adventures to short walks and scenic drives, there's plenty to do in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Kahuku is a place of dynamic volcanism, rich Hawaiian traditions, and a fascinating history of ranching.

This new storymap reveals the meaning behind cherished place names across the summit region of Kīlauea.

A captivating new video series sharing authentic Hawaiian cultural practices that revitalizes Hawaiian culture and traditions.

Hazardous volcanic gasses can present a danger to sensitive groups of people. Frequently check the air quality during your visit.

The park store is operated by Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association, which supports park programs and projects

Last updated: March 6, 2024

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P.O. Box 52 Hawaii National Park, HI 96718

808 985-6011

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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers visitors a front-row seat to the region’s striking natural beauty. Home to everything from lush rain forest and the Halemaumau Crater to lava tubes and rolling black lava fields—where hot steam still rises from fissures and rifts that dot the rugged landscape—Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must on the Big Island.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects two different volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa . The park is a popular spot on Big Island tours that also include stops at sights such as Rainbow Falls and the Hamakua Coast . Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours from Oahu are a great way to visit the park and generally include round-trip airfare. Other tour options include Kilauea volcano bike tours and helicopter rides .

Once at the park, you can stop in at the park's Jaggar Museum to learn about earthquakes, geology, and seismology, or ask your tour guide for more details. You can also learn about why lava from active volcanoes still flows to the sea and occasionally covers roads and hear the storyof Pele, Hawaii's volcano goddess.

Eruptive activity changes daily, so no two trips are the same.

You can buy Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tickets online or when you arrive. There are no entrance fees on select national holidays and interagency pass–holders visit for free.

Volcano tours get you close to the action, visiting popular sites such as Halemaumau Crater, the Kilauea Iki crater, and Devastation Trail.

Bring a warm jacket for the brisk air at the 4,000-foot (1,200-meter) Kilauea summit. Pack a rain jacket for the lush environment around the Thurston Lava Tube.

Some guided hiking tours go through rugged terrain, and aren’t suitable for wheelchairs or travelers with limited mobility.

It's important to hike the area around Kilauea safely; consider traveling with a professional tour guide.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a 45-minute drive south of Hilo and a 2.5-hour drive from Kona . The most popular ways to experience the park are as part of a Hawaii volcano tour or on a self-guided driving tour of Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road.

Because volcanic activity is tough to predict, it's almost impossible to plan your trip around lava flow. Weather at the park can range from 45°F (7°C) with rain and wind at the summit of Kilauea to 85°F (29°C) by the shoreline; travel with multiple layers that are suitable for all conditions.

Kilauea has destroyed nearly 200 structures during its most recent eruption. Lava covered the entire village of Kalapana, and over 500 acres of new land have appeared since 1983. As you'll learn on guided tours, parts of the ground are still very brittle due to the surface being so young.

From lava tubes to rain forest, there’s so much to see in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that you need at least one full day. To take advantage of the many hiking opportunities (there are more than 150 miles of trails) plan for two or three days and spend a night in, or close to, the park.

Check the forecast and dress accordingly but expect changing weather. Make sure you have sun protection and, ideally, a waterproof layer in case of unexpected rain showers. Closed-toe shoes are a must. Sneakers should be fine if you’re only doing easy hikes but for longer walks on more rugged trails, wear boots.

Spring is the best time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The winter crowds will have gone; the summer crowds won’t have arrived yet, and the weather is pleasantly cool (though often wet), making for ideal hiking conditions. However, you should avoid American spring break and Japanese Golden Week (end of April).

No, hiking boots are not necessary to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but you should wear closed-toe shoes. If you stick to easy trails, you should be fine with trail running shoes but if you’re planning anything more adventurous, such as scrambling over lava, opt for a pair of hiking boots.

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Exploring the Depths of Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park

L ush rainforest and land transformed for millions of years by volcanic activity, all spread across 520 square miles of protected space. Welcome to Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park !

Visitors flock to Hawaii ’s Big Island and this jewel of the United States’ national parks system thanks to the natural wonders it holds. However, it is important to understand the history of the region, its peoples, and how to visit the land respectfully and responsibly.

Let’s take a look at how Volcanoes National Park came to be and how you can make the most of your visit to Hawaii ’s Big Island.

How Volcanoes National Park Came to Be: A Short History of Hawai’i

The history of the state did not start with the arrival of Europeans; that happened very recently, historically speaking. The islands that make up Hawai’i were settled by voyagers from the Marquesas Islands nearly a millennium ago. These Polynesian seafarers traveled across the Pacific in search of a new home and arrived on the shores of Hawai’i 2,400 miles later.

Over the years, more settlers came from the Society Islands and, together, built a society that lasted for hundreds of years until the arrival of Captain James Cook in the late 18th century. The culture and society in Hawai’i was markedly different from that of the Polynesian islands from which the settlers arrived; it was now the Kingdom of Hawai’i, ruled by Kalani’opu’u. Until Captain Cook’s arrival, Hawai’i was generally isolated from what we call the “western world.”

Recorded history tells us that what happened in the next two hundred years or so happened quickly. Captain Cook was killed after attempting to kidnap the Hawai’ian king for ransom following a dispute. In the next hundred years, Hawai’i’s monarchs grew closer to the United States and its many industries. A push for a constitution and reciprocity treaty which favored the United States resulted in the eventual annexation of the territory, which became the 50th state in the Union in the mid-20th century. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park was established two years later, in 1961.

Telling the story of Hawai’i and its major island is a small way of contributing to the tradition of mo’olelo. This important cultural tradition is the telling of stories and myths. When visiting Volcanoes National Park , remember the story of Pelehonuamea, the Hawaiian Goddess who created the chain of islands that make up Hawai’i.

Pele’s story is one of duality: destruction and creation. Much like the Polynesians who settled these islands, she arrived from Kahiki while in search of a new home. The volcanic landscape was formed in the shape of her path. The sacred land of the Big Island is where she resides, in the Halema’uma’u Crater on Kilauea in Volcanoes National Park .

As is tradition, remember to be respectful of Pele and ask for her permission to cross her land. Keep in mind that the resorts and natural parks you visit on your vacation are on sacred land.

What to Do in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

The national park is open twenty-four hours a day — perfect for campers and stargazers! The entrance to the park can be reached via the Hawaii Belt Road, which circles the Big Island, and the fee to enter is $30 per non-commercial vehicle.

You’re likely coming to Volcanoes National Park to see, well, volcanoes. There are two active volcanoes within its boundary: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Start your visit at the Kilauea Visitor Center, open 9 am to 5 pm all year round, for important information on daily park conditions and hiking trails before you venture too far.

Drivers will enjoy the scenic route known as Crater Rim Drive, which takes visitors on a 10-mile journey around the Kilaeua Caldera. From this road, you can visit the area’s steam vents, Nahuku lava tube, and the Kilauea Overlook.

Mauna Loa hasn’t erupted since 1984, which means it is overdue for some rumbling. The volcano stands at an impressive 13,678 feet above sea level. You can follow one of two trailheads to its summit and both take a lot of effort. The climb can be grueling; you will hike over uneven hardened lava over the course of two days in most cases.

If you decide to make the journey and want to camp along the way, check with a Park Ranger or visitor center staff to determine whether or not you will need a permit. Along the way to the summit, you will come across the Mauna Loa Cabin, which is available to hikers on demand.

Kilauea is a much more accessible volcano to see. The more active of the two, Kilauea erupted in 2018 and covered the surrounding area in lava. The eruption caused its caldera to collapse and increased the size of the Halema’uma’u Crater.

Two trails run through dense rainforest and lead to the crater from Crater Rim Trailhead. The Kilauea Caldera can be reached in a 1.6-mile loop while the Byron Ledge will take 2.6 miles to reach.

If you manage to reach the summit of Kilauea, be sure to look for the Sulphur Banks. You might smell them before you see them, so follow your nose! Also known as Wahinekapu, the rotten egg smelling volcanic gas appears in the form of steam from the soil.

Some easily accessible evidence of the Big Island’s inhabitants can be found at the Pu’u Loa Petroglyph Field. These petroglyphs are the largest collection that has been discovered in Polynesia, though most only date back to the 16th century.

Keep in mind that Volcanoes National Park is more than just the two active volcanoes; there is also an entire shoreline to explore. Take a short drive to the Holei Sea Arch, a rock formation that has been pounded by waves for hundreds of years off Hawai’i’s coast. While a trip to Volcanoes National Park won’t include a stay on the beach, the area is chock-full of volcanic landscapes, rainforests, and all manner of wildlife.

Tread Responsibly

Your visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park will undoubtedly be a memorable one. There is no place like it in the entire United States and, quite possibly, the world. Remember to follow some basic rules when visiting such as keeping aware of park conditions, leaving no trace, and respecting the sacred land on which you are a guest.

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