Hilo , United States

Elite Volcano Hike From Hilo

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(19 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Elite Volcano Hike
Hike down into Kilauea Caldera on the 2 mile Halema’uma’u Trail, and visit aftermath of the historic 2018 eruption along Kilauea’s coastline. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park including Kilauea Visitor Center, Sulphur Banks, the Kilauea Iki Overlook, Volcano House and more. Small-group tour deli-style lunch and dinner included.

Available options

Elite Volcano Hike | 9:30 AM

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

Dinner

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our first stop is Kaumana Caves, part of the lava tube system that brought lava as close as 1.5 miles from downtown Hilo in 1881. Take a peek inside the dramatic cathedral-like space.

Stop 2

Next travel to the crown jewel of the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Briefly visit the Kilauea Iki Overlook before heading off on foot down the paved road to Keanakakoi. Check out the activity here from the historic 2018 eruption which buckled the road and caused racks and sinkholes. You’ll get a birds-eye view of the Kilauea Caldera and the enormous Halema’uma’u Crater, along with views of the trail you will take into the Caldera. This trail has been used to hike into the caldera since being established in 1846. Mark Twain was once rescued by native guide Alex Lancaster using this trail. It’s about 2 miles roundtrip taking you past the famous Sulphur Banks, through ancient forests of tree ferns, some as old as 1,000 years. Look for native birds, such as the yellow ‘amakihi and the red ‘apapane. Huge boulders came to rest here during ancient rock slides and eruptions. Look for marks left by previous visitors such as Benjamin Boyd, a Scot, and John Webster, a California artist, from back in 1851. Reaching the floor of Kilauea Calder there is an incredible rock slide to your left, evidence of the 2018 eruption, and Halema’uma’u Crater before you. The Crater increased in size during the eruption with the lava lake draining out of it leaving behind an enormous 1,000 foot deep pit.

Return to civilization at Volcano House for some beautiful views.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Important notes

Please contact us at 808-964-1000 for your hotel pick up time and location along with meal options.

About Hilo

Hilo, located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, is known for its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant culture. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and authentic Hawaiian hospitality.

Top Attractions

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore lava tubes, craters, and scenic overlooks.

Nature Full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Rainbow Falls

A beautiful waterfall located in a lush, tropical setting. The falls are especially stunning in the early morning light.

Nature 30-60 minutes Free

Liliuokalani Gardens

A beautiful, historic park with Japanese-inspired gardens, ponds, and bridges. It's a peaceful retreat in the heart of Hilo.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It's often served over rice.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)

Loco Moco

A Hawaiian comfort food dish made with rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, eggs, gluten (gravy)

Shave Ice

A popular Hawaiian treat made with finely shaved ice and flavored syrups. It's often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegan options available (ask for no condensed milk or ice cream)

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Stargazing Beach lounging Spas Scenic drives Museum visits Historical sites

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers the most pleasant weather with lower rainfall and ideal temperatures for outdoor activities.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hilo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strong currents and rip tides when swimming or engaging in water activities

Getting there

By air

Hilo International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from city center

By bus

Hilo Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Hilo, but schedules may be limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Hilo Pana'ewa

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit

30 miles (48 km) north of Hilo • Full day

The Mauna Kea summit offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Akaka Falls State Park

11 miles (18 km) north of Hilo • Half day

This state park is home to the stunning Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.

Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

25 miles (40 km) south of Hilo • Half day

This private garden and reserve offers a variety of tropical plants, exotic birds, and scenic views.

Festivals

Hilo International Festival • Late September to early November Merrie Monarch Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit the Hilo Farmers Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and Hawaiian souvenirs
Explore the city's historic sites and museums to learn about Hilo's rich cultural heritage
Take a guided tour of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park to learn about the park's geology and history
Try local foods and support local businesses to get a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine
Be prepared for rain and bring a rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the wet season