Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 433 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour worth booking?
Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour is a 10.5-hour experience in Hilo, United States, from $203 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 433 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (433)
- Duration
- 10.5 hours
- From
- $203 per person
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Volcano Adventure tour on Hawaii's "Big Island," focusing on the lush, northeastern Hilo side. Explore the dynamic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to active volcanoes and historic craters. Delight in the charming vistas of Hilo Town. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will enrich your journey with tales of the area's legends, history, and culture, highlighting scenic wonders throughout the tour. Note: This tour is available with hotel pickups exclusively in the Hilo area (Not Kona).
What you get
About this experience
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Volcano Adventure tour on Hawaii's "Big Island," focusing on the lush, northeastern Hilo side. Explore the dynamic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to active volcanoes and historic craters. Delight in the charming vistas of Hilo Town. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will enrich your journey with tales of the area's legends, history, and culture, highlighting scenic wonders throughout the tour. Note: This tour is available with hotel pickups exclusively in the Hilo area (Not Kona).
What's included
Included
- Pick-up and drop-off at specific Hilo hotels
- Tour narration by a professional driver/guide
- Lunch
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- All Admission Fees
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Banyan Drive
Drive through quaint Hilo Town along magnificent Banyan tree-lined streets along Hilo's coastline known as the "Hilo Walk of Fame".
Pass by without stopping
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Home to Hawaii's active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Chain of Craters Road
Chain of Craters Road is a 19-mile (31 km) long winding paved road through the East Rift and coastal area of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawaii. Some areas are inaccessible.
Pass by without stopping
Kilauea Volcano
Active shield volcano housed in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Latest eruption in June 2023! Vents spew lava from within Halema'uma'u, a pit crater in the volcano's summit caldera.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Steam Vents
See and feel the power of the volcano through the steam vents, where ground water seeps into volcanic rock.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Nahuku - Lava Tube
Tropical forest area featuring a long, subterranean cave formed by ancient flowing lava.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Akaka Falls State Park
Beautiful waterfall, easily viewable from a lookout point and surrounded by a verdant jungle.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Hilo
Drive through historic Hilo Town, where tsunamis in 1946 and 1960 caused cataclysmic damage and forced the town to be rebuilt further inland. Today, wooden storefronts remain in the laid-back, town that manages to keep the country vibe alive.
Pass by without stopping
Lili'uokalani Gardens
Renowned for it's lush Japanese gardens.
Pass by without stopping
Rainbow Falls
Witness rainbows forming in the mist at one of Hilo's most magnificent waterfalls.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Sightseeing Tour (no heli)
Pickup included
Sightseeing + Helicopter Tour
Optional Helicopter Ride 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 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Polynesian Adventure Tours
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- A light sweater may be needed at the volcano area and sturdy walking shoes are required
- Passengers with asthma and other respiratory problems should please consider other tour offerings to avoid potential health problems resulting from exposure to fumes
- As we cannot predict volcanic activity, features may vary daily depending on conditions. In an effort to make this an unforgettable experience, the tour operators will take you as close as possible to the volcanic activity
- Lava sightings not guaranteed
- Please contact the tour provider at minimum of 7 days prior to the tour date for ADA and all special requests.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 432 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
432 verified traveler reviews for Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Lacklustre tour guide and volcano experience
Overall the experience was disappointingly below average. The admin side of the booking was good and the email info was clear and we got the inter island flights there and back without issue. The issue was with the tour itself. A large factor of this was bad luck. We had heavy rain and some fog during the day and the helicopter flight was cancelled, but this portion was refunded quickly and this was the decision of the pilot which was fair enough. We then just joined the tour as normal which took us straight to the volcano park by bus. The bus itself was ok but the roof was leaking and the floor collapsing a bit in places, presumably with rot. The volcano is the main reason we booked this tour and it was very disappointing and the tour guide Dexter didn't help. Yes it was raining and the visibility was poor at times, but he said it's like this 90% of the time and shrugged his shoulders. We couldn't see much from the first view point so he cut it short and took us to the temporary visitor centre shop. It then cleared up a bit so I asked if we would stop by the view point on the way past it or take a short walk to another viewing area from the visitor centre but he said there was either no time or no point so on our way we went to the other stops. The other stops were interesting but the guide felt the need to say the same info on local spots 3 times over. I can only assume he forgot he said it the first time or thought no one was listening. It was just a bit annoying and unusual. We then got back to the airport 3 hours before our flight and 1 hour before the tour was advertised to finish, so I don't know why we couldn't have taken another 10 mins at the volcano view to actually see the volcano, the whole point of the tour. We spent more time at the overpriced candy and cookie store, which was novel and had the cleanest toilets in Hilo (as stated by the tour guide 3 or 4 times), but that's not what I've paid $1000 to come and see. I always tip in America and especially extra for a really good service. But this tour was so lacklustre I couldn't bring myself to hand over any cash for such a lacklustre effort. I feel bad as he was a lovely man but I feel a tour guide should make an effort to make the tour memorable, not just drive a bus on a predetermined route and not make an effort to adjust if things don't go to plan. Overall I think we were unlucky with the weather and the tour guide who didn't know what to do with it, despite stating several times the weather is always like that. There were some memorable sights like the lava tube and the waterfalls, and I get the cost is for the flights which were well organised and it was cool seeing the islands from the sky. But was it worth $1000? It could have been but not on our occasion. Hopefully we can see an active volcano another time, maybe in Sicily which sounds like a better active volcano to see. Reading more into other reviews it does seem the volcano is a minor attraction on this tour, despite being advertised as the main feature of the tour. The tour the next day on another island was cancelled due to flooding which is a shame, but after our first tour experience we were glad as we spend 1/4 of the refund (which again was sorted quickly) on swimming with dolphins and turtles which was a 1000x better.
Response from the operator: Aloha, thank you for providing such detailed feedback. We’re sorry the tour did not meet your expectations, particularly regarding the condition of the vehicle, the experience at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and how the available time was managed when conditions improved. We appreciate that you also recognized the smooth flight arrangements and prompt refunds, and we are sharing your comments with our operations team for review.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent!
Awesome! Saw multiple waterfalls and the volcano! Stopped at a few shops and had a nice lunch! Dexter was super knowledgeable!!
Response from the operator: We’re glad you had such a rewarding day exploring Hawaiʻi Island. Dexter will appreciate knowing that his insight added so much to the experience.
via Viator
Dexter - fantastic tour guide !
We ended up having a private tour as the other party had to cancel. Dexter was a great tour guide, kind, knowledgeable and overall a pleasure to be around. We saw all party of Hilo and ended with the a helicopter ride. It was amazing .
via Viator
A tour of Hilo- had to adjust following tropical storm Lala
We had a great time. Went to waterfalls, garden, macadamia nut plant. Great guide (Albert)
via Tripadvisor
YMT Big Island Day 4
Albert was wonderful!!! He was on time, very informative and just a great guy. We enjoyed the travel experience we had with him. Thanks Albert
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 10.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $203 to $756
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 152
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Polynesian Adventure Tours, who run 22 experiences we rank across 7 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 70.7 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Polynesian Adventure Tours runsWhy this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hilo.
How much does Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour cost?
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Prices start at $203 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hilo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour take?
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Plan for about 10.5 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 Hilo is not rushed.
Is Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 433 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hilo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter 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 Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour?
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Around 152 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 Hilo 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 Hilo and add a light layer if any part of the 10.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter 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 Hilo 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 Hilo?
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On Outty we rank every Hilo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hawaii Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Hilo Highlights Day Tour, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens, Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcano Safari Lava Caves & Black Sand. 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 Hilo?
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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 Hilo?
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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 Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour?
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Included: Pick-up and drop-off at specific Hilo hotels; Tour narration by a professional driver/guide; Lunch; Air-conditioned vehicle; and All Admission Fees. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 5 listed pickup locations in and around Hilo. Be ready about 60 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter 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 Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter 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 Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter 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 Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour?
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Across 433 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Sightseeing Tour (no heli), Sightseeing + Helicopter Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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