Hilo-6 Hour Private Tour-Volcanoes NP, Rainbow Falls and more.

A 6-hour private tour of Hawaii’s Big Island offers an intimate and flexible way to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights. Priced at $1,299 per group for up to 8 people, this tour provides a personalized journey in a comfortable van, led by knowledgeable guides who prioritize your interests. The tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 rating from 13 reviews, and it’s booked nearly 98 days in advance on average, highlighting its popularity.

The tour’s standout feature is a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where visitors get close-up views of volcanic activity, including Halema’uma’u Crater, Steam Vents, and the Lava Tube. While sightings of glowing lava depend on volcanic activity, guides do their best to include this spectacular sight when possible. The tour also includes a visit to Rainbow Falls, renowned for its impressive 80-foot cascade, and Lili’uokalani Gardens, a tranquil Japanese garden park along the Banyan Drive waterfront.

One of the key advantages of this tour is its customizable nature, allowing you to add stops such as Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Mac Nut Farm, Big Island Candies, or the Hilo Zoo. This flexibility makes it ideal for families, small groups, or travelers with specific interests, providing a tailored experience that fits your schedule and preferences.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour for up to 8 people at $1,299
• Includes Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with views of halema’uma’u Crater and Lava Tube
• Visit Rainbow Falls and Lili’uokalani Gardens, with admission included
• Tour duration of approximately 6 hours, with pickup offered from Hilo
• Highly rated with 5.0/5 from 13 reviews, emphasizing stunning views and flexibility
• Book in advance, with most reservations made 98 days ahead

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Witness the Power of Volcanoes

The trip’s highlight is a 3-hour exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Visitors stand at multiple viewpoints of the Halema’uma’u caldera, where the volcanic activity is visible most days. The tour also features the Steam Vents and the Thurston Lava Tube, allowing you to experience the island’s fiery landscape up close. This stop provides an awe-inspiring look at Earth’s geological forces, with guides eager to share insights about the volcanoes’ formation and activity.

While viewing glowing lava isn’t guaranteed daily, guides do their best to include this spectacle when it occurs. The park’s dramatic landscapes and volcanic craters remain a captivating sight, even without lava illumination. This part of the tour is admission free, making it a compelling yet cost-effective highlight.

Rainbow Falls: A Vibrant Waterfall Experience

A short drive brings you to Rainbow Falls in Wailuku River State Park. Here, viewers can enjoy the 80-foot cascade from an accessible vantage point just minutes from downtown Hilo. The waterfall’s name comes from the rainbows that often form in the mist, especially on sunny mornings, creating a vivid display.

The visit to Rainbow Falls lasts about 1 hour, with admission included. The site is easy to reach and offers excellent photo opportunities. It’s an ideal stop for those wanting a quick, scenic break during the tour.

Lili’uokalani Gardens: Peaceful Japanese-Inspired Landscape

Next, the tour takes you to Lili’uokalani Gardens, a peaceful 24-acre Japanese garden park along the Banyan Drive waterfront. This stop offers a quiet respite from the more dynamic sights, with beautifully landscaped gardens, bridges, and pagodas. Visitors can walk along paths that wind through lush greenery, capturing serene views perfect for photos or relaxing moments.

This stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, with admission included. It’s an excellent addition for those interested in tranquil landscapes and cultural touches during their Big Island exploration.

Flexible Stops for a Customized Experience

Beyond the core stops, the tour provides options to include Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, famous for its dark volcanic sands and turtle sightings; Mac Nut Farm, where you can learn about Hawaii’s macadamia nut industry; Big Island Candies, a local sweet shop; or the Hilo Zoo. If you have a specific location in mind, guides are happy to accommodate your requests, making this tour particularly adaptable.

This flexibility ensures that the tour can suit a variety of interests, whether focusing on natural wonders, local agriculture, or family-friendly attractions.

Convenient Pickup and Meeting Arrangements

The tour departs from the Port of Hilo, located at 80 Kuhio Street, with flexible pickup options. Operating hours are from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, ensuring ample time to explore the sights comfortably. The tour uses a custom van that is spacious and comfortable, as praised in reviews, accommodating small groups nicely.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Accommodating

Based on reviews, guides like Derrick and Derick stand out for their friendly, flexible, and knowledgeable approach. They tailor the itinerary based on weather conditions and client preferences, which enhances the experience. The guides’ familiarity with the island and their willingness to adjust plans contribute significantly to the positive ratings.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations are highly recommended, with most bookings made 98 days in advance. The tour offers free cancellation, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start and receive a full refund. This flexibility is ideal for travelers who may need to adapt their plans due to weather or changing schedules.

The tour is offered by Ohana Private Car & Fun, a trusted provider known for private, customizable experiences. They accommodate service animals and are accessible via public transportation options.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour suits small groups seeking a personalized experience of the Big Island’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who value flexibility and want to explore volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and gardens without the constraints of a large bus group. The private setting and customizable stops make it a great choice for families, couples, or small groups interested in a relaxed, tailored adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including all stops and traveling time.

What is included in the price?
Admission to Rainbow Falls and Lili’uokalani Gardens is included. The tour fee covers the private guide, transportation in a spacious van, and customizable stops.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can request to include additional locations like Punalu’u Beach, Mac Nut Farm, Big Island Candies, or the zoo.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is the Port of Hilo at 80 Kuhio Street. Pickup can be arranged from nearby locations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and reviews mention kids enjoying the stops. The van’s comfort and flexibility make it suitable for all ages.

What if the weather is poor?
Most of the stops are outdoors, and the tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 98 days ahead, so early reservation is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this private tour.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private, customizable nature combined with stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and flexible stops set it apart from larger group tours.

What is the price for the entire group?
The cost is $1,299 for up to 8 people, making it a cost-effective choice for small groups wanting a tailored experience.

This private 6-hour tour of the Big Island delivers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and flexibility, making it an appealing choice for those wanting an intimate, curated adventure. With excellent reviews and a focus on personalization, it offers a reliable way to see Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and gardens comfortably and conveniently.