Private Tour: Experience Active Kilauea Volcano & Hilo Rainbow Falls

Hilo , United States

Private Tour: Experience Active Kilauea Volcano & Hilo Rainbow Falls

Active

(11 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Treat yourself to an exclusive private tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo's tropical beauty.

Travel to the summit of Hawaii Island's youngest and most active volcano, Kilauea. If the timing is right you may witness the incredible show of an eruption! Experience the steaming Kilauea caldera, misty rainforest of Nahuku (Thurston lava tube), and the Chain of Craters Road. Enjoy short hikes along the way as you learn about past and present volcanic eruptions, different lava formations, and the history and Hawaiian culture of the area.

As a private tour, you will have the option of spending the duration of your tour in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with optional hiking or heading down to Hilo with stops at the majestic Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Gardens and a local chocolate factory.

The Hilo & Volcano private tour begins in Hilo. If you choose the Volcano Only private tour, you may opt to meet in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Available options

Private Volcano & Hilo Tour

Pickup included

What's included

National park entry fee

Private transportation

Island chips

Help protect our island environment and bring your own refillable water bottle!

Professional guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park including a visit to Kilauea caldera where you will witness the dramatic changes from recent or perhaps current volcanic eruptions within Halema'uma'u crater. Feel the heat of steaming bluffs and enjoy the cool mist of the Hawaiian rainforest. Enjoy short hikes and Hawaiian cultural interpretation throughout Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with your certified national park guide.

Stop 2

Enjoy a walk through the Hawaiian rainforest to Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube). Explore the 500 year old underground tube where hot molten lava once rushed through.

Stop 3

Explore volcanic formations amongst frozen fields of lava and peer down into once active volcanic craters. Learn the history, culture and geology of Kilauea volcano on this small group guided tour.

Stop 4

View the majestic 80 foot waterfall of Waianuenue or Rainbow Falls. Enjoy the tropical landscape as you learn the legends of Hawaii.

Get your pep in your step with tasty hand-made chocolates, locally grown macadamia nuts and island fresh coffee!

Stop 6 Pass by

Enjoy the scenic drive through Liliuokalani Gardens with large banyan trees, fishponds, pagodas and picture perfect landscaping along Hilo bay.

What's not included

We are sorry there are no options for meal purchases along the way. You are welcome to bring your own snacks for the trail, however we do not allow eating in our vans.

Gratuities

We DO NOT provide transportation from Kona or Waikoloa. Please meet us in Hilo or Volcano.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Operates in all weather conditions (be prepared for sun, wind and rain).

Covered walking shoes are required and a jacket is highly recommended.

We do not guarantee you will see molten lava on this tour.

HOTEL pick-up is offered for select HILO HOTELS ONLY. If you are staying outside of Hilo, please plan to meet at the Hilo Mo'oheau Bus Terminal (please confirm at time of booking).

CRUISE SHIP passengers, we pick-up directly at the PORT OF HILO and will adjust the tour time as needed to accommodate your ships time in port.

For a one DAY TRIP to the Big Island, please make your travel arrangements to and from the HILO AIRPORT. Schedule your flight arrival a minimum of 30 minutes prior to the tour start time AND provide your flight details at time of booking.

Youth ages 10 years and up may participate in tour. All participants must have a paid seat. We do not allow children under the age of 10 years old.

Kilauea volcano is an active volcano, you may be exposed to volcanic gas on this tour.

This tour cannot accommodate guests with wheelchairs, scooters or oxygen tanks.

Important notes

Covered Walking Shoes are required for all participants.

Need to contact us for any reason?

Please email info@maukamakaiadventures.com or call +1-808-640-7557.

Mahalo!

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