Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 34 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour worth booking?
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour is a 2-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $17 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 34 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 68 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (34)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $17 per person
Witness the explosive majesty of Hawaii with this self-guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stand at the precipice of Kilauea Crater. Visit the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs. See the beauty of the Hōlei Sea Arch before
What you get
About this experience
Witness the explosive majesty of Hawaii with this self-guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stand at the precipice of Kilauea Crater. Visit the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs. See the beauty of the Hōlei Sea Arch before erosion destroys it for good. Along the way, you’ll find out how volcanoes really work, what they’ve meant in the history of Hawaii, and so much more. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
What's included
Included
- Just bring your car and phone; the app guides your tour.
- Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
- Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
- Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.
- Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
- Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
- One purchase covers everyone in your car, not per person.
- Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
- Self-guided audio tour through our easy-to-use mobile app.
- Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
Not included
- Self-guided tour — no live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
What you'll see and do
Your journey begins at the park’s Entrance Station, Volcano, HI. First, we’ll go straight through the Entrance Gate and explore the area around the visitor center. Note: The tour is over 24.5 miles long, with more than 43 audio stories, and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.
Pass by without stopping
It’s a recreational facility for soldiers, but its history wasn’t all fun and games. During World War II, this became an internment camp not only for prisoners of war but for innocent Japanese citizens as well.
10 minutes here
Steam Vents
Steam Vents are created by the heat of the Kilauea Volcano, which heats groundwater trapped in underground pockets. The steam that rises from the vents is an indicator of the volcano's underground activity.
10 minutes here
This is where the short but sweet Sulphur Banks Trail begins. Well, I say sweet… but that’s a lie. It’s actually extremely smelly!
Pass by without stopping
This spot looks out across the simply jaw-dropping and is one of the must-see spots in the park. Although the crater doesn’t look like a typical volcano, it’s actually one of the most active in the entire world!
10 minutes here
This trail leads directly through the Kilauea Iki Crater! It’s a 3.3-mile loop that takes about three hours, but the elevation change can be strenuous.
10 minutes here
Nahuku - Lava Tube
The Thurston Lava Tube was formed over 500 years ago when molten lava flowed through the area and created a tunnel-like cave as the lava on the outside cooled and hardened while the lava on the inside kept flowing. The result is a unique cave system that visitors can explore today.
10 minutes here
The Luamanu Crater was once filled with a dense forest… but that all changed in just one day.
10 minutes here
Puhimau Crater
Puhimau Crater is a volcanic feature located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and if travelers book an experience to visit it, they can witness the unique geological formations created by volcanic activity.
10 minutes here
Pauahi Crater
Pauahi Crater is a steep-sided pit crater that was formed by explosive volcanic activity. The crater is approximately 330 feet deep and 1,000 feet in diameter, and it is known for its interesting geological features, such as the lava spatter deposits and the fumaroles, which emit steam and gases.
10 minutes here
Pu’u Huluhulu is a cinder cone, just like Pu'upua'i. The name means "hairy hill" because low shrubs have grown across it, giving it a fuzzy appearance from afar.
10 minutes here
Kipuka Puaulu Trail
Kipukas are formed when a lava flow surrounds an area of older vegetation, and over time, this vegetation can continue to thrive, creating a unique island of life in the middle of a barren lava field. These kipukas often have their own microclimate, with different soil types and moisture levels than the surrounding area, allowing for the growth of different plant species.
10 minutes here
This raised platform offers panoramic views of the Mauna Ulu lava flow. It’s mostly flat and gray, but look for the toadstool-shaped formations.
10 minutes here
Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs
Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs is a historical site located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. If travelers book an experience to visit Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs, they can see over 23,000 ancient petroglyphs etched into the hardened lava rock.
10 minutes here
Holei Sea Arch
The famous Holei Sea Arch. This picture-perfect sea cliff naturally formed into the shape of an arch!
10 minutes here
Volcano Art Center Gallery
You might notice a small building separate from the rest of the Visitor Center. That will be the Volcano Art Center Gallery, a lovely place to stop if you’re a fan of the fine arts.
10 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Big Island of Hawaii
Begin from Entrance Station, Volcano, HI 96785, USA. After booking the tour, search your emails and texts for "audio tour". Your tour is VALID FOREVER, so follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
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 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- History with Action
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
- Private tour: Explore in your own vehicle without crowded buses or large tour groups.
- At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
- Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
- Good value: One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle, not each person separately.
- More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
- Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.
- Follow the route: Begin at the suggested starting point or join anywhere along the route shown in the app.
- Lifetime access: Preview the tour before your trip and revisit the stories, photos, and details afterward.
- Supported devices: iPhone with iOS 15+, Android with version 9+, or a GPS-enabled iPad/tablet with cellular capability.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 34 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
34 verified traveler reviews for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing
Once in a lifetime experience viewing the volcano and sulphur vents. The voice guide provided very helpful information and interesting stories
Response from the operator: Sravya, thank you for taking my Hawaii Volcanoes National Park GPS driving audio tour. I’m so glad the voice guide added helpful information and interesting stories to what was already a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the volcano and sulfur vents. If you're looking for more Hawaiian adventures, check out my All Hawaii Bundle, which includes tours of Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. I wish you more amazing travels!
via Viator
Great app for the Volcano Park!
Great information to guide you along the way! I like that it was an app and did not need cell service
Response from the operator: Alicia, thank you for taking my Hawaii Volcanoes National Park GPS driving audio tour. I’m so glad the app gave you helpful information along the way and worked smoothly without cell service. My audio tours are valid forever and work offline once downloaded beforehand. If you're looking for more Hawaiian adventures, check out my All Hawaii Bundle, which features Maui, Oahu, and Kauai tours. I wish you more amazing travels!
via Viator
This was extremely...
This was extremely helpful and on point I would definitely recommend this it is a super inexpensive way to experience the volcanos and other points and detailed step by step directions on where to go and what to do
Response from the operator: Felica, thank you for taking my GPS driving audio tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! I’m so glad it was helpful, easy to follow, and gave you a convenient way to explore the volcanoes and key stops at your own pace. If you're looking for more Hawaiian adventures, check out my All Hawaii Bundle, which features Maui, Oahu, and Kauai tours. I wish you more amazing travels!
via Viator
Easy to follow
The audio tour was easy to follow and informative.
Response from the operator: Linda, I’m so glad you enjoyed my GPS Driving Audio Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It’s wonderful to know the tour was easy to follow and informative as you explored the park. If you're looking for more Hawaiian adventures, check out my All Hawaiian Islands Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle. I wish you more amazing travels!
via Tripadvisor
Very Helpful!
The audio was very helpful and informative! We were able to see all the highlights of the volcano and didn’t miss anything.
Response from the operator: Rebecca, I’m really glad to hear that my Hawaii Volcanoes GPS Driving Audio Tour helped you see all the highlights and made sure you didn’t miss anything. It’s great that you found the audio helpful and informative. If you're looking for more Hawaiian adventures, check out my All Hawaiian Islands Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle. I wish you more amazing travels!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 12
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 68
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Big Island of Hawaii.
How much does Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour cost?
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Prices start at $17 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 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour take?
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Plan for about 2 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 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 34 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 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour?
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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 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour?
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Around 12 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 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour 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 KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings, Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch, 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.
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