Shore Excursions Group

Volcano & Highlights Of Hilo Adventure With Private Transportation

Volcano & Highlights of Hilo Adventure with Private Transportation

Visit both Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the city of Hilo on this small group guided tour, seeing the active Kilauea Caldera and exploring the volcanic formations along the Chain of Crater’s Road including Thurston Lava Tube. Thereafter, you’ll immerse your senses in a tropical orchid nursery, visit a local chocolate factory for samples and coffee tasting before seeing the spectacular Rainbow Falls.

Explore volcanic formations of the world renowned Kilauea volcano on a guided journey to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Experience volcanic steam vents while taking in extraordinary views of Kilauea caldera where the summit caldera has grown in size and drastically changed the landscape. Enjoy a morning walk in the cool mist of the rain forest to explore an ancient lava tube. You’ll then view other volcanic formations along Chain of Crater’s Road and perhaps even witness the raw power of an active eruption.

Thereafter you’ll take a scenic drive through what to see in Hilo, first stopping at a local orchid nursery and heading downtown to a chocolate factory to sample locally grown coffee and Big Island treats. Then, continue on to Rainbow Falls, one of Hilo’s most famous waterfalls.

Conclude the day with a stop at Liliuokalani Gardens for views of Hilo Bay and the expansive island landscape. As time permits, stroll around the tranquil Japanese gardens featuring pathways winding through fishponds and across bridges lined with pagodas and rock gardens. Book this tour to a true treasure of the Hawaiian islands!

Please Note: Volcanic activity is closely monitored as guest safety is the top priority. This tour is only operated in areas deemed safe by the national park and local county government. Please understand that volcanic activity changes frequently and we reserve the right to adjust or cancel tours to ensure the safety of all our guests. We do not guarantee that you will see active lava on this tour. Please be advised that COVID-19 masks are required throughout the time in the vehicle.

04/09/2025 through 04/09/2027
05/03/2022 through 04/09/2027

Day 1

Hilo, the charming and laid-back gateway to Hawaii’s Big Island, offers an authentic Hawaiian experience steeped in natural beauty, history, and culture. As the largest town on the east side of the island, Hilo sits at the foot of two majestic volcanoes: Mauna Loa, the world's largest volcano, and Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano that hosts some of the world's most advanced astronomical observatories. Visitors can explore the rich volcanic landscapes by venturing to the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can witness the fiery glow of Kīlauea's lava flows and hike across otherworldly terrain.

Nature lovers will find a paradise in Hilo's lush, green surroundings, thanks to the abundant rainfall that nourishes the region. Stroll through the renowned Liliʻuokalani Gardens, a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden spanning 24 acres along Hilo Bay, or visit Rainbow Falls, where the Wailuku River cascades 80 feet into a turquoise pool. The mist often catches the sunlight just right, creating a mesmerizing rainbow effect, a sight that perfectly embodies the natural magic of Hilo. For a truly immersive experience, explore the Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, which boasts over 2,000 species of tropical plants and an enchanting array of waterfalls.

Hilo’s vibrant downtown area is an inviting blend of historic charm and modern appeal. Wander through its streets lined with century-old wooden storefronts that house unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Stop by the Hilo Farmers Market, a must-see attraction where you can sample exotic fruits like rambutan and lilikoi or buy handmade crafts from local artisans. The Pacific Tsunami Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's past, recounting the powerful tsunamis that reshaped Hilo and the resilience of its community.

A fun fact about Hilo is that it is one of the rainiest cities in the United States, with an average annual rainfall of about 130 inches. This abundance of rain is what makes Hilo's scenery so verdant and lush, contributing to its unique appeal. Despite the frequent rain showers, Hilo has a quiet, unhurried charm that invites visitors to slow down, explore, and truly experience the natural and cultural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island.


05/03/22 - 04/09/27

Starting At $195

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Participants must be able to walk a minimum of 1 mile on uneven terrain. The current eruption viewpoint is a 2 mile hike. There is no guarantee you will see molten lava on this tour. This tour operates rain or shine. Children ages 8 years of age and up may participate. This tour can not accommodate guests with wheelchairs, scooters or oxygen tanks.

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