Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from the Big Island
Overview
Available languages
10 hours
Mobile ticket
Take a journey to the youngest Hawaiian Island and witness firsthand the amazing power of Hawaii’s fiery goddess of fire, Madame Pele. Learn the ancient legends about just how these magnificent islands formed … as well as see for your self the amazing landscapes and wonder of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii.
This exciting tour visits the Hawaii’s most active volcano, Kilauea volcano, and spends the day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Take in the diverse scenery of the island of Hawaii, where you’ll discover black sand beaches, Thurston lava tube and the natural formations of Hawaii volcanoes.
Experience the town of Kona, travel to Kilauea volcano and explore the natural wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with our expert tour guides. Fill your Hawaiian vacation with excitement and educational fun while exploring the only active volcano in Hawaii!
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Weather Variability - The weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Bring layers, including a rain jacket, as it can get cool and wet.
Sturdy Footwear - Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven and potentially sharp volcanic terrain. Flip-flops or sandals aren’t recommended.
Volcanic Hazards - The park is an active volcanic area, so be aware of potential hazards like volcanic gases, which can be harmful, especially for those with respiratory issues. Follow all safety guidelines and stay on marked trails.
Pack Essentials - Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. There are limited services within the park, so it's important to be prepared.
Respect Sacred Sites - The park is home to many culturally significant sites for Native Hawaiians. Show respect by not disturbing or removing anything from these areas
No or Limited Cell Service - Cell phone service is limited or nonexistent in many parts of the park, so plan accordingly and download maps or guides in advance.
Leave No Trace - Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by not leaving any trash behind. Follow the "Leave No Trace" principles to protect the environment
All entry tickets to the attractions will be provided by your driver on the morning of your tour
Meals are at your own expense
We stop for lunch at Punaluʻu Bake Shop where you can enjoy a variety of lunch options including sourdough sandwiches, Kalbi beef, and Hawaiian plate lunches, all complemented by their fresh baked goods and local treats
Bring cash for roadside stands, food trucks, and local shops—many are cash-only
If you enjoy your tour tipping your guide in cash is always appreciated
Car seats are available for children ages 4 years and under
People with Respiratory Issues -The park can have high levels of volcanic gases, like sulfur dioxide, which can exacerbate conditions like asthma or other respiratory problems.
Those with Mobility Challenges: Many trails and viewpoints require walking on uneven, rocky terrain, which can be difficult for individuals with limited mobility or those who rely on wheelchairs or walkers.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Greenwell Farms
Greenwell Farms is a well-known coffee farm and producer located in the Kona region of Hawaii's Big Island. Established in 1850 by Henry Nicholas Greenwell, it is one of the oldest coffee farms in Hawaii and has a rich history tied to the development of Kona coffee, which is internationally recognized for its high quality. The farm is located in the Kona district on the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano. The region's unique climate, with its rich volcanic soil, sunny mornings, cloud-covered afternoons, and consistent rainfall, creates ideal conditions for growing high-quality coffee.
Manuka State Wayside Park
Manuka State Wayside Park is a tranquil, 13-acre park located on the Big Island of Hawaii along the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11). Nestled on the slopes of Mauna Loa, the park features a diverse mix of wet and dry forest ecosystems, offering visitors a peaceful setting for picnicking and hiking. The park's 2-mile Manuka Nature Trail takes you through lush native forests, showcasing a variety of plant species, volcanic features, and providing insights into the area's unique geology and ecology. This lesser-known gem is home to various native Hawaiian plants and wildlife, including endemic bird species like the Hawaiian hawk and honeycreeper. With picnic areas and interpretive signs along the trail, Manuka State Wayside Park offers a serene escape into Hawaii’s natural beauty, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the southern part of the Big Island.
What‘s Included
Pick-up and Drop-off service is included from Kona
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park admission is included
Narration from a local guide, sharing stories and insights throughout your tour.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Gratuities
If you enjoy your tour tipping your guide in cash is always appreciated
Meals are at your own expense
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Book Now
Pickup included
Reviews
81 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Nice way to see half of the island.
Sylvain L,,Dec 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Brandon is energetics, knowledgeable and fun. All you’d want in a tour guide. I highly recommend this tour, you get to see more and drive less than if you were to do it by yourself.
Our tour guide Mel is a...
Steve K,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Our tour guide Mel is a wealth of knowledge and gave a lot of information while making the long journey to Kilauea seem shorter and very mindful of bathroom breaks.
Outstanding experience!
carmzetasanchez,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We feel safe on our tour. Our tour driver/guide is very professional and knowledgeable of the history of the island. It is a great tour to understand the geography of the Big Island.
Most enjoyable trip in Hawaii
Wen H,,Dec 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Mel is the best guide of all my Hawaii tours! He’s so knowledgeable and shared tons of fun facts, not only about volcanoes and also life in Hawaii. As a scientist, I do love the way he conveys stories behind the observations. Thanks to the trip, I got to know such a beautiful and relaxing place. Hope I can revisit the big island with my families and see the eruptions next time!
Great Tour, highly recommend it. Mel was great
David D,,Dec 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour guide, very knowledgeable and I enjoyed the long day! Mel was fantastic. Putting a minimum limit this BS by the way!
Was a long day, covered...
Meet C,,Dec 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Was a long day, covered alot The tour did what u need to do on this Island. Had a vegan who could not eat at the bakery so bring ure own food if ure a vegan Jim was our driver he was great, knowledgeable and told us some Hawaiian stories was very entertaining Book this tour, ask for Jim
Fabulous Volcano Tour Experience
Kathleen J,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This tour met all of our expectations and beyond. We were picked up at our hotel by Sunshine Aloha Tours. We were part of a small tour group of seven people in a very comfortable airconditioned van that had seating for 13. Our guide Mel was fabulous. You could tell he loved his job and loved the Big Island of Hawaii. His knowledge of the island was amazing. He informed us of many things which included history, animal and plant life, volcanic/lava activity and native customs. He was very in tuned with his passengers needs and wanted to be certain that we were comfortable and enjoying our experience. The ten-hour tour was fun and organized and passed by very quickly. Mel was a main reason the tour was so enjoyable. We would highly recommend this tour to others. It's a great stress-free way to see that part of the island. We went with Viator instead of our resort's suggested tour because the price was half of what our resort was offering. What a fabulous deal at a fabulous price.
Absolutely loved it....
Eleonora R,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolutely loved it. Kudos to our guide Mel for all the interesting and diverse information that he shared, about history, culture and nature. It is a long day, but totally worth it. We made many interesting stops and never felt rushed and seeing the volcano up close was so awe-inspiring. 10/10 would recommend this operator.
An informative and...
Frieda B,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00An informative and relaxed full-day tour that highlights a range of attractions from Kona through to Hilo, all expertly commentated by Mel, our driver, with personal anecdotes and many historical facts to entertain and educate visitors. A thoroughly enjoyable day!
Worth it
Chrystal G,,Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a great experience, I loved how they picked you up at your hotel because it made it so much easier. Mel did a great job on explaining everything on the island, knowledgeable on his history and made it a fun experience. Highly recommend
From US$139.00
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Operated by Hawaii Island Experiences, LLC