Volcano Unveiled
Journey through Hawaii Island’s incredible range of ecosystems and climate zones with your Hawaii Volcanoes National Park certified guide before experiencing first-hand the phenomena that makes it all possible – an active volcano. This in-depth experience takes you off-the-beaten path to sites unknown to most visitors including private access to a lava tube, Kauhi Cavern, exclusive to Hawaii Forest & Trail, with ceilings as high as 35 feet, expansive rooms, & bright golden walls. See how the historically large collapse and recent eruptions of the Halemaumau Crater have changed Kilauea Volcano forever.
Highlights
Visit must-see spots within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home of Pelehonuamea, the Hawaiian deity of volcanoes, as your interpretive guide illuminates historical events that have changed the landscape of the Park forever.
Your certified Park guide will share with you the geology and natural and cultural history that makes Hawaii Volcanoes National Park one of the most fascinating places on earth for residents, scientists, and visitors alike.
Venture down Chain of Craters Road through rainforests, lava flows, and cinder fields
Get up close and personal with volcanic formations such as lava tubes, steam vents & craters.
Visit a large private lava tube, or cave, known for its 30+ foot tall ceiling and bright multi-colored microbial mats living on the cave walls. This lava tube is only accessible to guests of Hawaii Forest & Trail.
++Please note: ALL volcano eruptions viewing are subject to change based on current conditions and permitted access.
Duration
It takes around 11 to 12 hours from Kona, 10 to 11 hours from Waikoloa, and 7 to 8 hours from Hilo.
Rated
Easy to Moderate.
Schedule
Trips depart daily from Hawaii Forest & Trail Kona Headquarters, Waikoloa Queen’s Market Place, The Shops at Mauna Lani, Waikoloa Plaza in Waikoloa Village, and Kea’au.
Important
Please note that this tour has a late return time, be sure to have return transportation confirmed and scheduled from your designated pick-up location
What’s Included
Guests are served a deli-style picnic lunch and a warm picnic dinner with snacks and beverages available throughout the day. National Park entrance fees and private cave access fees are also included.
Gear Provided
Walking sticks, flashlights, daypacks, raingear, bug repellant, & sunscreen.
What to Bring & Wear
Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, reusable water bottle, long pants, light jacket, or sweatshirt.
Restrictions
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. We sometimes encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions. Please note the access road to our private lava tube does contain some unpaved and bumpy sections. Due to these road conditions this tour may not be suitable for those guests who are prone to motion sickness. Other tour restrictions may apply. Ages 6+
FAQs
How much hiking do we do?
We’ll stop a couple of times throughout the adventure for a few short hikes. Hikes will be determined based on the group’s interests and ability levels, and Park conditions.
Will we get to see active lava?
The most recent eruption has paused as of the afternoon on September 16, 2023 and there is no visible lava in the Park. This is a very dynamic situation that is subject to change at any moment. Please contact our office staff for the most current volcano conditions, or visit the the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s Eruption Update page.
Cancellation Policy
- Guests will receive a full refund with 24 hours’ notice of cancellation.
- Private tours: Customers will receive a full refund with 72 hours notice of cancellation.
Cancellations within the cancellation period and “no-shows” will be charged the FULL AMOUNT of the tour.