Kona/Waikoloa Volcano Tour

Fully experience the geological wonders and fascinating history of Big Island's volcano region with a full day exploring lava tubes, steaming vents, cinder cones, past lava flows, and much more.

In a small group (max of 9, usually less, or as a private tour) and with highly knowledgeable local guides, this hands-on tour will teach you about the significant role of volcanoes in the Hawaiian Islands. You'll witness the massive Halemaumau Crater in Volcanoes National Park which collapsed in the 2018 eruption that made international headlines, and at night you'll see the glow from the current lava lake that has recently returned. You'll learn about and see the effects of the power of nature creating and shaping Hawaii to the present. Based on the conditions of the day, the tour will select a 2-3 mile easy-to-moderate hike to explore the unique terrain of the active Kilauea volcano.

Outside the Park, you'll also enjoy exclusive access to a 35-foot-high lava tube on private property only accessible by this tour, seeing firsthand how rivers of lava would traverse the land during eruptions. 

For private tours, your group can also stop at photo-worthy Rainbow Falls, the most popular waterfall on the Big Island. 

A deli lunch, snacks & drinks all day, and a hot dinner are included, as well as the $30 National Park entrance fee and a variety of gear as needed (walking sticks, day packs, warm wear, rain gear, flashlights/helmets for cave). Pickups are available from Waikoloa and Kona, saving you from driving the 4+ hours round-trip, including a long stretch at night through a remote area in the middle of the island often enveloped in fog or rain. 

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New Private Tour: A new private tour option has been added -- pricing is $1,500, which includes up to 4 people and then $178 per additional guest. In addition to Kona & Waikoloa, pickup for the private tour is also possible in Hilo or Volcano Village. For larger groups (13+), customizations, or dates that are not showing, please contact us.

COVID-19 Update: This tour is taking multiple steps to enhance sanitation and safety practices to minimize COVID-19 risks for guests and staff. For more details, see FAQ below. 

• Staying in Hilo or near the Volcano? This tour has a pickup for you (see FAQ below for more details).
• No availability? Please contact us with the # of people in your party and all possible dates that would work for you. There is often flexibility in adding additional vans/dates.
  

• The most reputable and longest running small group tour operator on the Big Island (over 25 years)
• Known for knowledgeable and professional guides, many with degrees in volcanology, geology, and biology
• Exclusive access to lava tube you can walk through (note: the popular one in the Park has remained closed during COVID))
• Hikes to see unique sites beyond the busiest stops
• Pick-up service includes Kona and Waikoloa
• Comfortable van transport and maximum of only 9 people (often less)
• Meals and snacks included

Hawaii Big Island Revealed Guidebook:

If you had to name the one thing the Big Island is most famous for, it would undoubtedly be Kilauea Volcano. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is the most fascinating place you may ever visit.

Lonely Planet Guidebook:

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: Hawaii’s Top 20

Top-notch ecotour outfitter with knowledgeable guides

Moon Guidebook:

A wonderful company with an excellent environmental ethic—the tours are highly recommended

Fodor's Guidebook:

If you do nothing else on the Big Island, do the volcano

Since 1993, this locally owned and operated outfit has built a reputation for outstanding nature tours and eco-adventures. Sustainability and cultural sensitivity is a company mission. They have access to thousands of acres of restricted or private lands and employ expert, certified guides who are entertaining and informative.

• Recognized at the local, state, and international levels as a leader in sustainable tourism
• Certified by the Hawai’i Ecotourism Association
• Donates to and partners with local environmental and community organizations
• Reusable containers and water bottles to reduce waste
• Educates and is sensitive to the deep cultural significance of the volcano

• Fully refundable until 24 hours prior to tour (72 hours for private tour)

• 4.712% Hawaii sales tax (GET)