Kona: Big Island Big Volcano Adventure

Experience the Big Island’s Volcanoes and Waterfalls for $228

The Kona: Big Island Big Volcano Adventure offers a full-day exploration of Hawaii’s most striking landscapes for $228 per person. This 9-hour guided tour departs from Kona and takes visitors through varied terrains, from lush rainforests to volcanic craters. Known for its knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary, this tour provides an engaging way to see Akaka Falls, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and enjoy a lunch stop at Hilo Sharks in Honomu.

The tour is well-suited for those interested in geology, waterfalls, and scenic drives. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the need to plan multiple excursions. However, the full-day format requires a reasonable level of mobility and comfort with bus travel, as the itinerary covers multiple destinations across the island.

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Key Points

• Full-day guided tour lasting 9 hours from Kona
• Includes stops at Akaka Falls, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and scenic coastal drives
• Average price of $228 per person, with transportation included
• Led by a live English-speaking guide known for knowledge and storytelling
• Small or private groups available for a more personalized experience
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

The Tour Starts with Scenic Highway 19 Drive from Kona

The journey begins in Kona with a scenic drive along Highway 19. This highway offers views of Waimea’s historic cattle ranches and the Hamakua Coast, which is shaped by volcanic activity and coastal erosion. Travelers get a glimpse of rugged cliffs and lush vegetation along the route, setting the tone for a day of natural beauty.

The drive itself is smooth, allowing enough time to appreciate the landscape and prepare for the stops ahead. The tour stops briefly along this route, giving a taste of the island’s diverse geology and history as the bus moves eastward toward the coast and rainforest regions.

Witnessing Akaka Falls in Honomu’s Lush Jungle

One of the highlights of the tour is a stop at Akaka Falls, where a 442-foot waterfall plunges into Kolekole Gulch. This stunning cascade is set within a vibrant rainforest environment, and the walk to the overlook is accessible for most visitors.

The Akaka Falls visit offers a chance to see one of Hawaii’s most iconic waterfalls up close. The area around the falls is lush and verdant, providing excellent photo opportunities. The tour guides share insights about the local flora, fauna, and the volcanic origins of the landscape, enriching the experience.

Lunch Break at Hilo Sharks in Honomu

After exploring Akaka Falls, the tour stops at Hilo Sharks in Honomu for a lunch of fresh local wraps. This is a practical and tasty break, giving participants a chance to enjoy local flavors in a relaxed setting.

The lunch is included in the tour price, adding value for those who want a quick, satisfying meal before the afternoon activities. It also offers a chance to chat with the guide and fellow travelers, sharing impressions of the day’s sights so far.

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Exploring Hilo and Its Ocean-View Charm

Post-lunch, the tour drives into Hilo, a charming town famous for its lush landscapes and proximity to epic ocean vistas. The guide points out notable town features and explains the significance of Hilo as a hub for volcanic and rainforest environments.

While in Hilo, the focus remains on passing through rather than extensive sightseeing, but the town’s scenery and local atmosphere provide a pleasant backdrop for the next leg of the trip. The group boards the bus to head into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Entering Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to See Kilauea

The centerpiece of the tour is a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here, the guide leads visitors through the summit caldera and along the east rift zone, showcasing the active Kilauea volcano. The raw volcanic activity visible from these sites highlights the island’s dynamic geology.

This part of the tour emphasizes geological features, offering views of lava flows, volcanic craters, and steaming vents. The guide’s explanations make the experience accessible and educational, revealing how volcanoes shape the island’s landscape and influence its ecology.

Scenic Drive Along Saddle Road with Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea Vistas

The return journey includes a scenic drive along Saddle Road, which crosses the island from the volcanoes to the rainforests and high desert plains. Here, travelers enjoy panoramic views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the largest volcanoes on Earth.

Stops at various elevations provide perspectives on how the landscape varies from lush jungles to volcanic deserts, showcasing the island’s diverse ecosystems. This drive caps off a day rich in natural scenery before returning to Kona.

Small Groups and Private Tour Options Enhance the Experience

The tour offers small group and private options, making it adaptable for those seeking a more intimate outing. The English-speaking live guide is praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability, making complex geological features engaging and easy to understand.

Guides are attentive to the group’s pace, and the tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows booking with confidence, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour includes all transportation and visits to key attractions like Akaka Falls and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The 9-hour duration ensures a full day of sightseeing, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Participants should be prepared for a moderate pace and bring suitable clothing for outdoor exploration, as some walking may be involved at each stop. The tour is ideal for travelers interested in geology, waterfalls, and scenic drives but requires comfortable mobility.

Final Thoughts on the Kona Big Volcano Adventure

This tour delivers a comprehensive look at Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes combined with scenic coastal drives and lush waterfalls. The expert guides enhance the experience with detailed explanations, making the natural wonders accessible and fascinating.

Priced at $228, the tour offers good value for a full-day experience that covers multiple key sights in one trip. It is well-suited for visitors who want a guided, educational day around the island’s most iconic features, especially those interested in volcanoes and waterfalls.

While the itinerary is packed, the pace is manageable, and the stops are carefully chosen for their visual and educational appeal. The Kona: Big Island Big Volcano Adventure stands out as a solid choice for a balanced, engaging exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The 9-hour guided tour includes transportation, stops at Akaka Falls, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and a lunch at Hilo Sharks.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the tour’s moderate pace and accessible stops make it suitable for most ages, but travelers should be comfortable with bus travel and walking at each stop.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from Kona to the various attractions typically involves scenic bus rides that are part of the 9-hour schedule, with some stops at different elevations for panoramic views.

Can I cancel or reschedule the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later.

Are small or private groups available?
Yes, the tour offers small group and private options for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable outdoor clothing, sunscreen, water, and camera gear to capture the scenic vistas and waterfalls.

Is there any food included besides lunch?
The lunch at Hilo Sharks is included, but additional snacks or drinks are not provided.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect to see Akaka Falls, explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with views of Kilauea, and enjoy scenic drives along Saddle Road with views of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $228 per person, which covers transportation, guide service, and key attraction stops.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by The Volcano Van, known for their knowledgeable guides and clear itineraries.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby