Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour in Big Island of Hawaii, United States
Big Island of Hawaii, United States

Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour

Outty Ranking 57 4.6 · 19 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $950
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Outty Ranking

57/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.6/5

Based on 19 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour worth booking?

Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour is a 8-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $950 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 19 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
57 / 100
Rating
4.6/5 (19)
Duration
8 hours
From
$950 per person

Explore enchanting sights on the Big Island during this shore excursion exploring Volcanoes National Park, waterfall, black sand beach, and more You'll make stops at Kilauea Crater and Thurston Lave Tube, plus Rainbow Falls and several other Hawaii highlights. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to the Big Island for another look, this tour is right for you. Layers of lava stretch over moonscapes, collect in calderas, and put on an awesome show. A guide, park entrance fees, and round-trip port transport are included.

What you get

  • Bottled Water
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Local Guide
  • Pick up and Drop off

About this experience

Explore enchanting sights on the Big Island during this shore excursion exploring Volcanoes National Park, waterfall, black sand beach, and more You'll make stops at Kilauea Crater and Thurston Lave Tube, plus Rainbow Falls and several other Hawaii highlights. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to the Big Island for another look, this tour is right for you. Layers of lava stretch over moonscapes, collect in calderas, and put on an awesome show. A guide, park entrance fees, and round-trip port transport are included.

What's included

Included

  • Bottled Water
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Local Guide
  • Pick up and Drop off

Not included

  • Gratuities

What you'll see and do

  1. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

    Start the adventure towards Hawaii Volcanoes National Park driving to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Have you ever seen a beach with black sand? Because of constant volcanic activity, you'll find white sands and black sands on the island of Hawaiʻi. Located on the southeastern Kaʻū coast, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is one of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaiʻi. Located between the towns of Pāhala and Nāʻālehu in Kaʻū, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach's jet black shores are an unforgettable sight. Coconut palms fringe the upper edge of sand and you may also discover large honu, (Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles), basking on the beach. Although it may be tempting, do not touch these protected turtles and do not remove any black sand from the beach. 90 minutes drive plus 30 minutes in the beach

    120 minutes here · Admission included

  2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

    Born of Fire, Born of the Sea Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa - and is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will then make our way to the summit of Kilauea volcano at the Volcanoes National Park, the most highly regarded and revered volcanic area on Earth. The Park highlights two of the world's most active volcanoes--Kilauea and Mauna Loa--and offers insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and views of dramatic volcanic landscapes. At the park, you will stop at the Visitor Center, witness the spectacular collapsed caldera, steam vents, sulfur banks, and fascinating scenic lookouts. No trip to Hawaii is complete without a trip to Volcanoes National Park.

    180 minutes here

  3. Nahuku - Lava Tube

    The Nāhuku lava tube is one of the few accessible lava tubes in the park and is considered to be the most popular destination in the park, besides the summit of Kilauea. Walking through a tall tunnel formed by a 500-year-old river of lava is an incredible and memorable experience .To think that the vacant space was once a fast-moving torrent of molten rock from Kilauea volcano can be hard to fathom. Equally astonishing is that Nahuku is accessed by a gorgeous, easy trail surrounded (by a) verdant native rainforest. Towering tree ferns, ohia trees, and rare Hawaiian plants thrive where this massive flow once dominated the landscape.

    35 minutes here

  4. Banyan Drive

    Start the adventure towards Hilo driving through the historical Banyan Drive- a tree-lined street at the shoreline of Hilo, Hawaii. It is known as the "Hilo Walk of Fame" for the banyan trees planted by celebrities. These trees have withstood several tsunamis that have devastated the town on the Big Island of Hawaii. The trees, which still bear the names of the planters, honor movie stars, religious leaders, political leaders, famous authors, adventurers and local Hawaiians.

    Pass by without stopping

  5. Rainbow Falls

    Rainbow Falls is an awe-inspiring waterfall that tumbles 80 feet into the Wailuku River that gushes below. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, this waterfall is easily reached from downtown Hilo as itʻs just a 5-minute drive away. Known as Waiānuenue in Hawaiian language, the name translates to “rainbow [seen in] water” and is befitting for these falls, as the rising sun commonly ignites a dazzling rainbow in the mist. Visit Rainbow Falls to experience the home of Hina, the ancient Hawaiian moon goddess, that is said to live within a lava cave encapsulated behind the falls. This peaceful oasis is a fantastic place to visit in the early morning to view the falls and explore the stunning natural environment that surrounds them.

    35 minutes here

  6. Kailua-Kona

    Drop the guest back to pick up place and stop for a drive through lunch. 2 hours drive time

    120 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Hotel pickup

Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.

Options you can book

  • Private Tour up to 7 persons

    Up to 7 persons Pickup included

  • Private tour 1-5 persons

    Up to 5 persons Pickup included

  • Private Tour 1-3 Persons

    Up to 3 persons 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 7 travelers per booking
Operated by
BARBIL TOURS

Know before you go

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers with due date within 2 months
  • Safe for all age groups

Photos

Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 2Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 3Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 4

What travelers are saying

Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 19 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

The guide

9 mentions

Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

Knowledge and storytelling

5 mentions

Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

Food and drink

2 mentions

The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

Good for families

2 mentions

Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

Physical effort

2 mentions

Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

Small groups

2 mentions

The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

Traveler reviews

19 verified traveler reviews for Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

5 star
16
4 star
0
3 star
1
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0
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ELENA_N · August 2026

Excellent 5 star review

Donald was absolutely fantastic tour guide, kind, patient with children, knowledgeable about the island history, food, landscape and an absolute pleasure to spend the day with. Thank you !

via Viator

Kari_R · May 2026

A great full day tour of...

A great full day tour of the island seeing black sand beaches. volcano national park, lava tube and an amazing waterfall. Does not require an extensive amount of hiking.

via Viator

upenk2026 · May 2026

Lewis was best tour guide. Highly recommended.

We were very fortunate to have had Lewis as our driver and guide for the private excursion package. He was very courteous and had good knowledge of the big island. He had patience to take us over to local food place and best local caffès which our daughters wanted to explore. And he brought us back to cruise terminal in time. Would highly recommend 👍🏼

via Tripadvisor

MichelleC9184 · May 2026

Fantastic Experience!

Our tour guide Cody was very experienced and we truly enjoyed the tour! Gurmit was helpful in recommending tour arrangement for us too ~ deeply appreciate the agency!

via Tripadvisor

Michelle_J · January 2026

Awesome tour guide!

Our guide LJ was an unbelievable wealth of knowledge. He knew all the plants and animals and told a plethora of interesting stories. The drive from Kona to Volcanos National Park seemed like a blink due to LJ's story telling. He gave us plenty of time at each stop. I would absolutely book a private tour with this awesome guide any day!

via Viator

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
$950 to $1,575
Hotel pickup
Included for all travelers
Booked in 30 days
7
Verdict
Worth a Look

Who runs this experience

Operated by BARBIL TOURS, who run 310 experiences we rank across 41 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 47.3.

See everything BARBIL TOURS runs

Why this scores 57

The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

Traveler sentiment (30% weight)77
Review evidence (18% weight)38
Booking momentum (14% weight)31
Value for money (12% weight)23
Listing quality (10% weight)90
Local standing (8% weight)41
Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour: questions travelers ask

Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Big Island of Hawaii.

How much does Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour cost?

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Prices start at $950 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour worth it?

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It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 19 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour?

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Around 7 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls 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 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour?

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Included: Bottled Water; In-vehicle air conditioning; Local Guide; and Pick up and Drop off. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

Does Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour include hotel pickup?

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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 3 listed pickup locations in and around Big Island of Hawaii. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

What languages is Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour?

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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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers with due date within 2 months. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

What happens to Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour 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 Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour?

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Across 19 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

What booking options are available for Private Big Island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour?

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There are 3 options to choose from, including Private Tour up to 7 persons, Private tour 1-5 persons, Private Tour 1-3 Persons. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

Ready to lock in your spot?

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