Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 279 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group worth booking?
Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group is a 8-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $225 per person. It scores 84 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 279 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 84 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (279)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $225 per person
The Big Island of Hawai'i is one of the most diverse places on planet earth! Here you have an opportunity to get a taste of this very special place. This small-group, or private tour focuses on the rainforests and waterfalls along Mauna Kea volcano’s famous Hamakua Coast, and Kilauea volcano in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. From striking sea cliffs, towering waterfalls, and vast volcanic lava fields, the scenery you’ll encounter is absolutely breathtaking!
What you get
- Hotel/Airport pickup and drop-off
- Picnic lunch
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Transport by private vehicle
About this experience
The Big Island of Hawai'i is one of the most diverse places on planet earth! Here you have an opportunity to get a taste of this very special place. This small-group, or private tour focuses on the rainforests and waterfalls along Mauna Kea volcano’s famous Hamakua Coast, and Kilauea volcano in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. From striking sea cliffs, towering waterfalls, and vast volcanic lava fields, the scenery you’ll encounter is absolutely breathtaking!
What's included
Included
- Hotel/Airport pickup and drop-off
- Picnic lunch
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Transport by private vehicle
Not included
- Gratuities
- Dinner
What you'll see and do
The Volcano Van Private Tours
This tour is an awesome way to experience the Big Island's diverse scenery while expanding your knowledge of Hawaii in a small-group setting. After pickup from your hotel, embark on your journey to the lush rainforests that populate the east side of the island. Cruise along Highway 19 and pass though the town of Waimea, From Waimea, travel along the eastern flank of Mauna Kea volcano, commonly known as the famous Hamakua Coast. Stop at Laupahoehoe for a visual example of the Pacific Ocean's powerful ability to carve rugged pinnacles. Continue along jungle roads to Akaka Falls. After lunch, head toward Hilo along some of the island's most scenic backroads wind along through lush jungle gorges and past epic ocean vistas. Cap your tour with a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Kilauea volcano. Gaze into Kilauea's vast summit caldera. Travel the east rift zone of Kilauea along Chain of Craters road and lava flows old and new. Enjoy plenty of time to look around.
540 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Options you can book
Shared
Shared pricing is for those that you don't mind sharing their adventure with another party up to 5 max. Pickup included
Private
Private pricing is for those that don't want to shared their experience with another party. Fully private and customizable! Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- The Volcano Van Private Tours
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. Conditions subject to change.
- Please bring along close-toed shoes.
- A maximum of 6 people per booking.
- A minimum of 2 people per shared and 1 per exclusive is required.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 278 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
3 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
278 verified traveler reviews for Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A Complete Tour of the Big Island
We had an awesome time in the Volcano Van! We really appreciated that Scott picked us up directly from our resort. We took a different tour later in our trip and we had to meet the tour group in another town a half hour away; don't make that mistake! Scott was very knowledgeable and showed us many of the amazing sights on the Big Island.
via Tripadvisor
The volcano van is the way to see the lava!!!
We had a very rainy day, but Scott our tour guide made it a fun day and did the best he could with the weather he was working with. He had umbrellas for all of us, we still could see the lava in the distance even though it was very steamy. The lunch sandwiches were very good and his knowledge and sense of humor made the long car ride very interesting. Would highly recommend this tour.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much! Hawaiʻi definitely gave us plenty of rain that day, but I’m glad we were still able to make the most of it and even catch a glimpse of the lava through all that steam! 🌋☔ I’m really happy you enjoyed the tour, lunch, and my sense of humor. Thank you for the recommendation!
via Viator
Save your money, not sure how there are so many good reviews
We booked a private tour. Scott was supposed to pick us up at 9AM at 8:37 AM I received a text that he is going to be late and would get there at 9:20 in order to get his tire patched. Not sure why we were told only approx 20 min before he was supposed to be there. He did get there (later than 9:20) in his dirty van and GPS. We stopped at Tex drive in, he went inside with us and then left to get gas, was gone for quite awhile. He said at the gas station something about the cops having to be called. I could have done without this stop and especially how long we were there for. When I would say something to my husband he would always want to know what we were saying and it made me uncomfortable that after a couple of times we just wouldn’t talk. He was on his phone while driving way more than he should have been and there were a few times his driving scared me tremendously. I really wanted to see the black sand beach and sea turtles but it was going to be a longer drive due to the recent storm so he said “I thought about it and decided not to.” He had some interesting facts but wonder how factual they all were. I asked him him about hospitals on the island and he said there was one and everyone has to go to Oahu. I found this was not true. We got to the waterfall and the person checking us in asked if he was local and he got snippy with her saying he is there almost everyday. In conversation he found out my husband was a veteran and had him get the pass at the National Park, it would have cost $30 of which was in the price we paid. We were fine with the lunch but had to eat it in the car while riding. We got back to town early, after leaving late so the tour was no 9 hours. He was in a hurry to get back to take his girlfriend to dinner. Rent a car, do the easy drive yourself and save a ton of $$$.
Response from the operator: Aloha Christine, I’m sorry the tour did not meet your expectations. The delayed pickup was due to an unexpected tire issue that needed to be repaired before safely operating the tour. I notified you as soon as the repair affected the pickup time, explained what happened, provided an updated arrival time, and you acknowledged the message at the time. After about an hour on the road, we stopped at Tex Drive In as scheduled. While you were enjoying the stop, I used approximately 15 minutes to refuel the van so an additional fuel stop would not be needed later. I let you know I was going to get gas before leaving, and had I known you preferred to leave immediately, I would have been happy to adjust. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach was inaccessible due to storm-related road closures and damage following the hurricane. I was not going to drive guests along a closed route to a closed destination simply to preserve the original itinerary. As for conversation during the tour, I make a point of checking in with guests and engaging with them so I can tailor a private tour to what they are enjoying. I’m always happy to adjust the pace, conversation, or itinerary when guests let me know their preferences. The decisions made that day were based on safety, road conditions, and the circumstances we were dealing with at the time.
via Tripadvisor
Great tour. Enjoyed it a lot!
Loved this tour! Scott from Volcano Vans was so much fun! Not only super knowledgeable about volcanoes but about the island too. Saw some beautiful sights along the way and had a blast. Highly recommend this tour. Scott Mahalo!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much! I’m glad you had such a great time exploring the island with me. There’s a lot more to the Big Island than just the volcano, and I always enjoy sharing some of the incredible places and geology along the way. 🌋 It was a pleasure having you along for the adventure!
via Viator
Best volcano tour in Hawai’i!
My family really enjoyed the tour with Scott! He was amazing; very knowledgeable in everything we saw, he made plenty of scenic stops and allowed enough time to indulge and take photos. Scott picked us up at our hotel building and kept good communication prior to the day, he provided lunch and snacks, which was nice because he asked what kind of meat we would like on our wraps. We were able to customize our lunch to fit our liking. Scott really engaged with us throughout the tour and refused to let us become bored. It was a small group of us in the volcano van so it felt like a personal experience. Would definitely recommend to family and friends.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $225 to $385
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 98
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by The Volcano Van Private Tours, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 76.5.
See everything The Volcano Van Private Tours runsWhy this scores 84
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Big Island of Hawaii.
How much does Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group cost?
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Prices start at $225 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Big Island of Hawaii usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Big Island of Hawaii is not rushed.
Is Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 84 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 279 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Big Island of Hawaii, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group?
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Around 98 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Big Island of Hawaii can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Big Island of Hawaii and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Big Island of Hawaii within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Big Island of Hawaii?
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The Big Island is volcano country: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours, Mauna Kea summit stargazing, night manta ray snorkels off Kona, Waipio Valley lookouts and coffee farm visits. Summit tours have real altitude rules, so we weight safety detail. On Outty we rank every Big Island of Hawaii experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch, KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii?
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April to October, though the island runs year round. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Big Island of Hawaii?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group?
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Included: Hotel/Airport pickup and drop-off; Picnic lunch; Bottled water; Snacks; and Transport by private vehicle. Not included: Gratuities; and Dinner. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 35 listed pickup locations in and around Big Island of Hawaii. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group?
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Across 279 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, food and drink. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
What booking options are available for Big Island Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Shared, Private. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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