Private Evening Volcano Explorer from Hilo
What your day looks like
The original volcano lover’s tour. Start with a drive through quaint Hilo town where you’ll drive along the historic waterfront before heading out to the old fishing village of Kalapana. Your National Park Service certified guide will discuss the volcanology, geology, and history of the Kilauea volcano, as well as provide in-depth narration on the various lava flows and flora and fauna that you’ll be passing by. Kalapana was destroyed by lava, as was the adjacent beach, Kaimu. Hike out across the lava flow to the new black sand beach. Stop by Star of the Sea Painted Church. Moved by the community twice to save it from advancing lava flows in 1990, this decommissioned church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Next travel to the crown jewel of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Visit the Kilauea Visitor’s Center, the Kilauea Iki Crater Overlook, and Steaming Bluffs. Stop in at the famous Volcano House for incredible views of Kilauea Caldera, and hike to the cracks and sinkholes in the paved roads left behind by the historic eruption of 2018. Lava glow viewing if weather and lava conditions permit.
The experience, in brief
- Enjoy a tour into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and stay past sunset!
- Walk across the recent lava flows to the newest black sand beach on the island
- Learn all about the history of the area and how the lava flows have influenced it
- Visit the Painted Church that was once home to Saint Damien
- Head to the Jaggar Museum
The journey, in full
12:30 - Depart Hilo 1:15 - 2:00 Kaimu 2:05 - 2:20 Painted Church 3:30 - 4:45 HVNP (Kilauea Iki Overlook, Mauna Ulu fissure through forest, Steaming Bluff) 5:00 - 5:45 – Dinner at lava Rock Café 6:00 – 7:00 pm – HVNP (Nahuku, Uēkahuna Overlook, VH shopping) 7:40 - Return
Your day, step by step
Hilo
Eco Tour at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Hilo
Sightseeing.
What to know before booking
Included
Military-grade LED flashlights, umbrellas, walking sticks, camera tripod to share, mosquito repellant, sunblock, all entrance fees and access to private locations
What to Bring
Video and/or still cameras Government issued ID Comfortable clothes, shorts are fine, light jacket or sweater Sunglasses and hat Comfortable closed-toe shoes are required (sandals and flip-flops or “slippahs” will not be accepted)
Restrictions
Guests should be able to negotiate stairs and walk for 20 minutes unassisted. Volcanic emissions, including sulfur gas, may affect those with respiratory concerns. Participants should be prepared for immediate evacuation in accordance with directions given by County, State and/or Federal officials. All ages can be accommodated with the following restrictions: State law requires child safety seats for all guests under 4 years of age (we’re happy to supply seats at no charge with advance notice). Booster seats required for all guests between ages 4 and 7 and under 4 feet 9 inches tall and 80 pounds weight (we’re happy to supply seats at no charge with advance notice). Guests under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult.
Meeting & Pickup
We pick up at most centrally located Hilo hotels, or you can meet us at our office located at 93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720.
Languages Offered
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Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Automatic