Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Discover the Hilo Helicopter Tour: An Aerial Adventure over Hawaii’s Volcanoes

The Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour offers a captivating way to see Hawaii’s most active volcanoes, waterfalls, craters, and rugged coastlines from the sky. Priced at $482.90 per person, this 50-minute flight takes off from Hilo Airport and provides an intimate experience with a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. With aircraft equipped with noise-canceling headsets, you’ll hear expert commentary from your Hawaiian-certified pilot as you soar over iconic sights like Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

This tour is ideal for those eager to witness hard-to-access volcanic features and stunning landscape changes, with morning and afternoon options available. The well-reviewed experience boasts a 4.5-star rating from nearly 100 reviews, emphasizing knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and friendly service. However, weather can influence visibility, so flexibility is advised. This adventure best suits travelers seeking a personalized, high-quality aerial tour of Hawaii’s volcanic heart.

Key Points

• Price is $482.90 per person for a 50-minute helicopter flight from Hilo.
• Limited to 6 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.
• Fly over Kilauea and Mauna Loa, with views not accessible by vehicle.
• Expert pilot guides provide commentary through noise-canceling headsets.
• Tour operates morning and afternoon, depending on your schedule.
• High safety standards, with certified guides and all fees included, except for optional photo packages and parking.

Starting Point at Hilo Airport: Convenient and Well-Organized

The tour departs directly from Hilo Airport, where a representative from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters greets guests. The check-in process begins 45 minutes before the scheduled flight, allowing time for weight checks, a safety briefing, and seating arrangements. The aircraft used is an Airbus Eco-Star, featuring forward-facing seats that provide spectacular 180-degree views.

This organized process helps ensure timely departures and safety compliance. The staff at the terminal is described as kind and helpful, making the experience smooth from check-in to takeoff. For those concerned about transportation, it’s near public transit, but parking at the heliport costs $10 USD.

The Scenic Route and Key Stops in the Air

During the 50-minute flight, the pilot guides you over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, showcasing active volcanoes like Kilauea and Mauna Loa. These volcanoes are not accessible by vehicle, making the helicopter tour the best way to see their fiery craters and volcanic landscapes.

You’ll also see Hawaiian waterfalls, Halemaumau Crater, and the Hamakua Coast. The flight offers views of the shoreline of the volcano area, revealing the constantly changing, rugged terrain created by ongoing volcanic activity. For those interested in historic lava flows and newly formed landscapes, this tour provides a unique perspective impossible from the ground.

The Pilot and Commentary: Local Expertise Matters

The pilots are State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guides, with extensive knowledge of the island’s geology and history. They communicate via Bose Aviation-grade headsets, allowing clear narration throughout the flight. Several reviews highlight friendly and informative pilots such as Chewy, Ryan, and David, who deliver engaging commentary about the sights and volcanic activity.

The commentary enhances the experience, especially during eruptions or when passing notable landmarks like Halemaumau Crater and the Hamakua Coast. Expect detailed explanations about volcanic events, lava flows, and the island’s geological past, making the flight both exciting and educational.

The Experience During Eruptions and Volcanic Activity

Traveling during active eruptions is possible, and the tour adapts to volcanic activity when it occurs. One review mentions visiting during eruptions, which adds a remarkable element to the flight. The pilot’s ability to navigate safely around volcanic plumes and lava flows enhances the overall thrill, providing a rare opportunity to witness Hawaii’s volcanic energy up close.

However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can impact the visibility of these features. Poor weather may cause cancellations or rerouting, but the tour provider offers full refunds or rebooking options if that happens.

Accessibility and Group Size: Personal and Intimate

This helicopter tour limits passenger count to 6, allowing for a more personalized experience. The aircraft’s forward-facing seats give each passenger an unobstructed view of the scenery. People with heavier weights over 240 lbs are asked to reserve an adjacent seat, which is half off the regular price.

Children 23 months and younger fly free on a lap, making it family-friendly. The tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with small aircraft, with good weather conditions being a key factor.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

Booking typically happens about 38 days in advance, reflecting high demand. It’s recommended to arrive at least 45 minutes early for check-in. The tour is weather-dependent, so travelers should be flexible with dates if needed. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, with full refunds available if weather cancels the flight.

Guests are asked not to bring large cameras or selfie sticks onboard, and bags are not allowed inside the helicopter. This helps maintain safety and comfort during the flight.

Weather Considerations and Cancellations

Since good weather is essential for safety and visibility, flights may be canceled if conditions are poor. The provider offers full refunds or rebooking if weather prevents flying. Travelers are advised to allow travel time to the heliport, especially during busy times or traffic, to avoid missing their scheduled departure.

Value and Overall Impressions

While the price of $482.90 may seem substantial, reviews consistently note the quality of the experience, the knowledge of the pilots, and stunning aerial views as worth the cost. The tour’s limited group size and personalized commentary set it apart from larger, less focused helicopter rides.

Many reviewers describe the experience as “worth every penny” and “a once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity to see Hawaii’s volcanic features from above. The professional staff, beautiful scenery, and spectacular flight make this a top choice for those wishing to explore Hawaii’s fiery side from a safe and comfortable aircraft.

Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour: An Honest Summary

This helicopter adventure offers a high-quality, personalized view of Hawaii’s volcanoes and landscapes. The 50-minute flight from Hilo Airport covers key volcanic sights and coastal scenery that are otherwise inaccessible. The expert pilots, clear narration, and small group size create an engaging and memorable experience.

While weather can impact visibility and occasional cancellations are possible, the overall reviews emphasize the breathtaking views and informative guides as main strengths. This tour is ideal for adventurous visitors eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity from a safe, comfortable aircraft with excellent service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes.

What is the price per person?
It costs $482.90 per person, with options for additional seats if over 240 lbs.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Hilo Airport, at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters terminal.

Can I see eruptions during the flight?
Yes, if eruptions are active during your flight, the pilot will navigate around volcanic plumes, enhancing the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 23 months and younger fly free on a lap. The experience is generally suitable for most ages, but comfort with small aircraft is recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring no large bags or selfie sticks. Use the provided noise-canceling headsets to hear the pilot.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Flights are weather-dependent. If canceled, you are offered rescheduling or full refunds.

How many people are on each flight?
A maximum of 6 travelers per helicopter, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel for a refund?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, but all fees and taxes are covered; optional photo/video packages can be purchased after the flight.