Maui to Big Island : Big Island Volcano Helicopter Tour & Ground Tour

Discover the Stunning Views of Hawaii’s Volcanoes and Landmarks on a Full-Day Tour

This Maui to Big Island tour offers an exciting combination of airborne adventure and ground exploration for those eager to see Kilauea’s active lava flows without packing extra bags. Priced at $1,399.99 per person, the tour lasts approximately 11 hours and features a round-trip flight from Maui to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. The highlight is the 45-minute helicopter ride over the volcanoes, providing spectacular views of lava, craters, and steaming vents. After the aerial segment, the tour continues with visits to Liliuokalani Gardens, Rainbow Falls, Richardson Ocean Park, and the King Kamehameha Statue.

Customized for smaller groups—limited to 12 travelers—this tour emphasizes a personalized experience that balances adventure and sightseeing. While the helicopter portion may be canceled due to weather or safety, a full refund of $350 per person is offered if that occurs, ensuring transparency and reassurance. This tour appeals to those who want a comprehensive day exploring both the natural wonders and cultural sites of the Big Island.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip airfare from Maui to Big Island, simplifying logistics
• 45-minute helicopter tour offers unmatched views of volcanoes and lava flows
• Visits notable sites like Liliuokalani Gardens, Rainbow Falls, and Richardson Ocean Park
• Limited to 12 travelers for a more intimate, tailored experience
• Weather-dependent helicopter ride, with a generous refund policy if canceled
• Suitable for most travelers with covered shoes and a willingness to explore diverse environments

How the Tour Starts at Kahului Airport in Maui

This tour begins at Kahului Airport, located at 1 Keolani Place, Kahului, HI 96732. Travelers check in here before boarding the plane that takes them from Maui to the Big Island. The round-trip air ticket is included, removing the hassle of arranging separate flights. The airport is a straightforward starting point, and the tour concludes back at the same airport later in the day.

The 45-Minute Helicopter Flight Over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A key feature of this tour is the helicopter ride over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The 45-minute flight offers a bird’s-eye view of the volcanic terrain, including active lava flows, volcanic craters, and steaming vents. This perspective highlights the volcano’s power and beauty in a way that ground tours can’t match.

The helicopter ride is praised for its stunning views and the skill of the pilot, with at least one review mentioning “amazing helicopter views”. It’s a highlight for those who appreciate aerial photography or just want to see the landscape from a new angle.

Tour of Hilo’s Iconic Landmarks and Natural Attractions

After the helicopter experience, the tour continues on land with visits to several notable landmarks. The Liliuokalani Gardens showcase traditional Japanese landscaping and are free to explore for about 15 minutes. Next, the Richardson Ocean Park features a black sand beach near Hilo, where visitors have around 20 minutes to enjoy the scenery.

The King Kamehameha Statue offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s royal history during a brief 15-minute stop. The Rainbow Falls are renowned for their frequent rainbows, with about 20 minutes allocated to appreciate the cascading water and lush surroundings. These stops provide a mix of culture, history, and nature in a compact itinerary.

Practical Details: What’s Included and How to Prepare

The tour package includes bottled water, the round-trip flight, the volcano helicopter tour, and a 4-hour guided exploration of Hilo’s highlights. Travelers should wear covered shoes, as some stops involve walking or standing on uneven terrain.

The temperatures in the park can drop to around 40°F, so packing layered clothing is advisable. Since the helicopter ride depends on weather conditions, it may be canceled for safety reasons. In such cases, travelers receive a $350 refund per person, which adds a layer of security to the experience.

The Stops: Highlights and Considerations

• Lili’uokalani Gardens: A peaceful Japanese-style garden, perfect for a quick stroll and photo opportunities.
• Richardson Ocean Park: Known for its black sand, this beach provides a striking contrast to typical sandy shores and is ideal for short visits.
• King Kamehameha Statue: A cultural icon located in Hilo, offering a chance to learn about Hawaii’s history.
• Rainbow Falls: Frequently producing rainbows, this waterfall is a favorite for its colorful display and lush surroundings.

While these stops are brief—ranging from 15 to 20 minutes—they offer memorable glimpses of Hilo’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The Personal Experience in a Small Group Setting

Limited to 12 travelers, this tour delivers a more intimate atmosphere. Guests can expect the guide to be attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring they get the most out of each stop. This small group size also allows for more flexibility and personalized attention, making for a more comfortable and engaging day.

Weather and Cancellation Considerations

The helicopter component requires good weather, and safety is prioritized. If canceled due to weather or safety concerns, travelers are entitled to a full refund of $350 per person. This policy provides reassurance, especially for those worried about unpredictable Hawaii weather affecting their plans.

Who Should Choose This Tour

This full-day experience appeals to travelers who want a balanced mix of aerial adventure and ground sightseeing. It is especially suitable for those interested in volcanoes, waterfalls, and Hawaiian culture. A good choice for most people, provided they are comfortable wearing covered shoes and prepared for variable temperatures.

Final Thoughts on the Big Island Volcano Helicopter & Ground Tour

This comprehensive tour combines the excitement of a helicopter flight with cultural and natural stops, all within a manageable schedule. The small group size creates a more personal experience, and the stunning views from the helicopter are a major highlight. The inclusion of key landmarks like Rainbow Falls and the King Kamehameha Statue enriches the day with Hawaiian history and natural beauty.

While the weather-dependent helicopter ride can be a limitation, the tour’s refund policy offers reassurance. This experience offers a robust glimpse of the Big Island’s volcanic activity and scenic attractions for those eager to explore both the land and sky of Hawaii.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the helicopter ride worth the extra cost?
Yes, the 45-minute helicopter flight provides spectacular views of lava flows, craters, and steam, giving a perspective that ground visits can’t match.

What should I wear for this tour?
Covered shoes are required for the stops, and packing layers is recommended because temperatures in the park can drop to around 40°F.

Can the helicopter portion be canceled?
Yes, the helicopter ride may be canceled due to weather or safety reasons. If canceled, a $350 refund per person is issued.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops generally range from 15 to 20 minutes, providing enough time for photos and brief explorations.

What landmarks are included in the land tour?
The tour visits Liliuokalani Gardens, Richardson Ocean Park, King Kamehameha Statue, and Rainbow Falls.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly guests?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at each stop.

How big are the tour groups?
Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I need to cancel?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Are meals included in the tour?
Meal options are not specified; the focus is on sightseeing and the helicopter experience.

Who provides this tour?
The tour is operated by Dynamic Tour Maui, a reputable provider approved by Hawaii State (PUC 4918 C) and US DOT.