Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour

Overview of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Location: Southeastern coast of Hawai‘i (Big Island), along the slopes of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
Established: August 1, 1916, one of the oldest national parks in the U.S.
Size: Over 335,000 acres (523 square miles), covering diverse landscapes from rainforest to volcanic desert.
Key volcanoes: Home to Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth by volume.
UNESCO status: Designated both a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.
Major features: Lava fields, steam vents, volcanic craters, lush forests, native wildlife, and historic cultural sites.
Significance: Protects rare native species, sacred Hawaiian sites, and some of the most active geological formations on Earth.

What to expect at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour

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Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes

Walk through some of the park’s most iconic features, from fresh lava fields shaped by recent eruptions to steaming vents and rugged craters. Your guide adapts stops based on weather and volcanic conditions to ensure you see the most active and interesting sites of the day.

Walk inside a real lava tube

Step into a naturally formed lava tube and experience the underground channels once carved by flowing molten lava. With provided flashlights and safety gear, you’ll learn how these geological tunnels were created and their importance in Hawaiian volcanic ecosystems.

Visit Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater

Stand at the edge of one of the world’s most active volcanoes as your guide explains its history, cultural significance, and how eruptions continue to reshape the island. You’ll get panoramic views of Halemaʻumaʻu Crater and the surrounding terrain.

Discover rare native plants and wildlife

Along the way, your naturalist guide points out unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Expect insights into Hawaii’s fragile ecosystems, ongoing conservation work, and how volcanic landscapes support surprising biodiversity.

Tour a private cacao and tropical fruit farm

After exploring the park, enjoy an exclusive visit to a 1,000-acre cacao farm overlooking Hilo Bay. Learn how chocolate is grown, harvested, and crafted “tree to bar,” then sample fresh chocolate and seasonal fruits.

Marvel at Rainbow Falls

End your journey at one of Hilo’s most scenic waterfalls. Rainbow Falls plunges 80 feet into a lush, jungle-lined pool, named for the rainbows that appear in the mist on sunny mornings.

History and geography of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park sits atop one of the most geologically active regions on Earth, shaped continuously by the forces of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most powerful volcanoes. Its volcanic landscape has been forming for hundreds of thousands of years, with new land still being created through ongoing eruptions and lava flows that reshape the terrain.

The area has deep cultural roots in Native Hawaiian traditions, where the volcanoes are tied to Pele, the goddess of fire. Ancient trails, archaeological sites, and stories passed through generations reflect the Hawaiian connection to the land. Established as a national park in 1916, it preserves both these cultural treasures and the vast volcanic ecosystem that stretches from sea level to over 13,000 feet.

Know before you go

Group exploring volcanic landscape on Hawaii adventure tour.

Operating hours: Big Island: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour: Daily 7:30am to 7:30pm

Best time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:

Best month: For the best visibility and comfortable weather, visit between April and October, when skies are clearer, and rainfall is lower, ideal for viewing craters, walking lava fields, and exploring the lava tube. During the winter months (November–March), expect occasional rain and cooler temperatures around Hilo and the summit areas. This can add dramatic steam vents and lush scenery to the waterfalls, but may reduce visibility at higher elevations.
Weekday vs weekend: Weekdays are generally quieter, making it easier to enjoy viewpoints and photo stops without crowds. Weekends and holidays can be busier, especially during school breaks, but the guided format ensures a smooth experience.

Meeting point: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour: Kailua-Kona | Find on Maps

By bus: Round-trip transportation is provided from the designated pickup points. If you're arriving on your own, you can take the Hele-On bus to Downtown Hilo; the farm is just a brief walk from there.
By car: The farm sits close to the Hilo Bayfront and can be easily reached via Highway 11. Parking is available in the surrounding area for visitors driving themselves.

Guests hiking on a volcanic trail in Hawaii with scenic views.

The tour includes walking on uneven, rocky, or muddy terrain, so guests must be able to hike short distances across varied surfaces.
Conditions in the park can change quickly, with cool, wet, or windy weather possible at higher elevations.
This experience is not recommended for guests in wheelchairs due to difficulty navigating natural, rugged environments.

Guests hiking near Kohala Waterfalls in lush greenery.

Guests are provided with day packs to carry essentials throughout the tour.
Walking sticks and trekking poles are provided to help with stability on uneven ground.
Flashlights are included for safe exploration of the lava tube.
Rain gear and bug repellent are provided to keep you comfortable in changing weather and outdoor environments.
Sunscreen is offered to ensure protection during the daytime portions of the tour.

Guide showing visitors the edge of Hualalai volcano crater in Hawaii.

Because Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a highly active volcanic region, eruption activity can start or stop with little warning; viewing molten lava cannot be guaranteed at any time.
If an eruption is occurring and accessible, the itinerary will shift to prioritise safe viewing conditions.
Guests must follow all instructions from their interpretive guide, especially in areas with volcanic hazards, steam vents, or unstable terrain.
Participants should remain with the group at all times and avoid wandering off designated paths or restricted areas within the park.
Additional safety or participation restrictions may apply depending on the day’s conditions.

Frequently asked questions about the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour

Lava sightings cannot be guaranteed during the tour. Volcanic activity changes quickly, and eruptions can start or stop without warning. If lava is visible and accessible during your visit, your guide will prioritise safe viewing.

Journey through Hawaii’s volcanic wonders, lush rainforests, and a private chocolate farm in one epic adventure. Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Everything you get: Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with an expert guide, visit Kilauea’s eruptive sites, walk through a lava tube, and discover native flora and fauna. Enjoy a hands-on tree-to-chocolate experience at a 1,000-acre farm, savor a private chocolate tasting, visit Rainbow Falls, and relax with included snacks, lunch, trekking gear, and rain protection.
Why choose this: Experience Hawaii’s volcanic power, lush landscapes, and local flavors in a small group led by seasoned guides—perfect for families and explorers alike.

Inclusions #

Small group (12 guests max) guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visit to Halemaumau Crater, lava tube, and steam vents
Private tropical fruit and cacao farm tour with tasting
Rainbow Falls visit
Snacks, lunch, and refreshments
Expert interpretive guide
Gear provided:
- Walking sticks
- Trekking poles
- Day packs
- Bug repellent
- Rain gear
- Sunscreen
- Flashlights

Exclusions #

Transportation outside designated pickup points
Personal expenses and gratuities
Water bottle (guests must bring their reusable bottles)

What to bring

Bring closed-toe shoes, long pants, a light jacket, and personal sun protection.
Bring a reusable water bottle.
It is recommended to bring any additional personal items you may need for hiking and outdoor activities.

What’s not allowed

Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the tour.
Smoking is not allowed during the tour.
Large bags and suitcases are not permitted on the tour.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain and may encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions.

Additional information

The tour is suitable for ages 6 and above; children under 6 are not permitted.
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours round-trip, with about 6 hours of travel time.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a dynamic volcanic area; volcanic eruptions can start and stop with little warning, and molten lava viewing cannot be guaranteed.
Seasonal and weather conditions may affect the itinerary.
Morning departures are available from Kona, with pickup options in Kona, Waikoloa, Waikoloa Village, and Hilo.
Pickup points:
- Royal Kona Resort (7:45am)
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (8:15am)
- Kona Village Resort (8:20am)
- Queens' Market Place (south side) (8:40am)
- Shops at Mauna Lani (front of Foodland Store) (8:50am)
- Waikoloa Plaza (near Domino's Pizza) (9:05am)
- Imiloa Astronomy Center (10:25am)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Journey through Hawaii’s volcanic wonders, lush rainforests, and a private chocolate farm in one epic adventure. Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Everything you get: Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with an expert guide, visit Kilauea’s eruptive sites, walk through a lava tube, and discover native flora and fauna. Enjoy a hands-on tree-to-chocolate experience at a 1,000-acre farm, savor a private chocolate tasting, visit Rainbow Falls, and relax with included snacks, lunch, trekking gear, and rain protection.
Why choose this: Experience Hawaii’s volcanic power, lush landscapes, and local flavors in a small group led by seasoned guides—perfect for families and explorers alike.

Inclusions #

Small group (12 guests max) guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visit to Halemaumau Crater, lava tube, and steam vents
Private tropical fruit and cacao farm tour with tasting
Rainbow Falls visit
Snacks, lunch, and refreshments
Expert interpretive guide
Gear provided:
- Walking sticks
- Trekking poles
- Day packs
- Bug repellent
- Rain gear
- Sunscreen
- Flashlights

Exclusions #

Transportation outside designated pickup points
Personal expenses and gratuities
Water bottle (guests must bring their reusable bottles)

What to bring

Bring closed-toe shoes, long pants, a light jacket, and personal sun protection.
Bring a reusable water bottle.
It is recommended to bring any additional personal items you may need for hiking and outdoor activities.

What’s not allowed

Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the tour.
Smoking is not allowed during the tour.
Large bags and suitcases are not permitted on the tour.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain and may encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions.

Additional information

The tour is suitable for ages 6 and above; children under 6 are not permitted.
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours round-trip, with about 6 hours of travel time.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a dynamic volcanic area; volcanic eruptions can start and stop with little warning, and molten lava viewing cannot be guaranteed.
Seasonal and weather conditions may affect the itinerary.
Morning departures are available from Kona, with pickup options in Kona, Waikoloa, Waikoloa Village, and Hilo.
Pickup points:
- Royal Kona Resort (7:45am)
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (8:15am)
- Kona Village Resort (8:20am)
- Queens' Market Place (south side) (8:40am)
- Shops at Mauna Lani (front of Foodland Store) (8:50am)
- Waikoloa Plaza (near Domino's Pizza) (9:05am)
- Imiloa Astronomy Center (10:25am)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Guided Tours

Big Island: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour

Journey through Hawaii’s volcanic wonders, lush rainforests, and a private chocolate farm in one epic adventure. Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Everything you get: Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with an expert guide, visit Kilauea’s eruptive sites, walk through a lava tube, and discover native flora and fauna. Enjoy a hands-on tree-to-chocolate experience at a 1,000-acre farm, savor a private chocolate tasting, visit Rainbow Falls, and relax with included snacks, lunch, trekking gear, and rain protection.
Why choose this: Experience Hawaii’s volcanic power, lush landscapes, and local flavors in a small group led by seasoned guides—perfect for families and explorers alike.

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11 hr

Meals included

hawaii volcanoes national park tour

Top things to do in Hawaii

Overview of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

What to expect at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour

Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes

Walk inside a real lava tube

Visit Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater

Discover rare native plants and wildlife

Tour a private cacao and tropical fruit farm

Marvel at Rainbow Falls

Route map of your tour

Highlights of your tour

See one of the world’s most active volcanoes

History and geography of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Know before you go

Frequently asked questions about the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour

More reads

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Kohala waterfall tours

hawaii volcanoes national park tour

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Big Island: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour

hawaii volcanoes national park tour

Top things to do in Hawaii

Overview of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

What to expect at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour

Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes

Walk inside a real lava tube

Visit Kīlauea and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater

Discover rare native plants and wildlife

Tour a private cacao and tropical fruit farm

Marvel at Rainbow Falls

Route map of your tour

Highlights of your tour

See one of the world’s most active volcanoes

History and geography of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Know before you go

Frequently asked questions about the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour

Will I get to see active lava during the tour?

How much hiking is involved in this tour?

Is the tour suitable for children?

What should I wear or bring?

How long is the tour?

Is transportation included?

Will we explore a lava tube?

How physically demanding is the tour?

Can the tour be affected by volcanic hazards?

More reads

Zipline tours

Stargazing tour

Kohala waterfall tours

hawaii volcanoes national park tour

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Big Island: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour