From Kona: Volcano & Waterfall Tour, Small Group

Exploring the Big Island’s natural wonders is a must-do on any Hawaii itinerary. This small-group tour from Kona takes you to the heart of the action, immersing you in the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You’ll hike through the mesmerizing Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube and witness the thundering Rainbow Falls. But the real question is, what hidden gems might you uncover along the way?

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Key Points

Small-group tour exploring Hawaii’s Big Island, including visits to Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea Crater, Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube, and Rainbow Falls.
Priced from $295 per person, with a maximum group size of 5 and conducted in English with a live guide.
Inclusions cover national park fees, bottled water, local guide, gratuities, and lunch.
Provides an opportunity to witness the geological processes shaping the Hawaiian islands, including the Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube.
Offers convenient pickup and drop-off service from Kailua-Kona and Hilo, with reservation options to secure a spot without upfront payment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Volcano & Waterfall Tour is a small-group excursion that allows visitors to explore the natural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Priced from $295 per person, this 6-hour tour has a maximum group size of 5 and is conducted in English with a live guide.

Pickup and drop-off are provided from Kailua-Kona and Hilo, with key stops including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea Crater, Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube, and Rainbow Falls.

Tour inclusions cover national park fees, bottled water, a local guide, gratuities, and lunch.

Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment and select their preferred date and group size.

Looking for more options in Kailua Kona? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the Volcanoes National Park

As part of the Volcano & Waterfall Tour, visitors explore the iconic Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse volcanic landscapes.

The tour takes them to Kilauea Crater, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. They’ll marvel at the powerful forces of nature as they peer into the steaming caldera.

Visitors marvel at the powerful forces of nature as they peer into the steaming caldera of Kilauea Crater, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

Next, they’ll hike through the Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube, a mesmerizing cave formed by flowing lava.

The tour provides an up-close encounter with the dynamic geological processes that have shaped the Hawaiian islands over millions of years.

Discovering the Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube

After exploring the powerful Kilauea Crater, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube.

This underground cave, formed by the flow of molten lava, offers a unique glimpse into the dynamic geological processes that have shaped the Hawaiian Islands.

Visitors descend into the dimly lit tube, marveling at the smooth, rippled walls and towering ceilings.

The guided tour provides insights into the tube’s formation and significance, allowing guests to fully enjoy this extraordinary natural wonder.

The 35-minute exploration leaves a lasting impression, showcasing the raw power and beauty of Hawaii’s volcanic landscape.

Witnessing the Majestic Rainbow Falls

Visitors then journey to the captivating Rainbow Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder nestled within the lush Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens.

The thundering cascade of water plunges 80 feet over a lava rock cliff, creating a stunning rainbow-like mist that dances in the sunlight. Guests marvel at the tranquil pool beneath the falls, surrounded by tropical foliage.

The guide shares the cultural significance of the falls, known as Waiānuenue in Hawaiian, which means "rainbow seen in the water." Guests capture photos and savor the serene ambiance before continuing the tour through the scenic landscape.

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Scenic Drives Through Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens and Banyan Drive

The scenic drives through Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens and Banyan Drive offer visitors a tranquil respite from the volcanic landscapes.

Liliʻuokalani Park features a Japanese garden with arched bridges, pagodas, and koi ponds.

Winding through Banyan Drive, guests marvel at the towering banyan trees with their sprawling roots and branches.

These scenic routes provide a serene contrast to the tour’s volcanic destinations.

Participants can admire the lush greenery, peaceful ponds, and iconic trees as they transition between the natural wonders of the Big Island.

There's plenty more to explore in Kailua Kona

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off service from Kailua-Kona and Hilo, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.

National Park fees, bottled water, and a knowledgeable local guide are also provided.

Participants can secure their spot without upfront payment by reserving now and paying later. Itineraries are subject to change, so customers are encouraged to check availability for their desired starting times.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

How do customers rate this tour experience? According to the summary, the Kona Volcano & Waterfall Tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the tour guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm, as well as the opportunity to explore lush rainforests, black sand beaches, and volcanic landscapes. However, some customers suggested room for improvement in timely pickup coordination.

| Rating Breakdown | # of Reviews | Percentage |

| — | — | — |

| 5 stars | 1 | 50% |

| 4 stars | 1 | 50% |

| 3 stars | 0 | 0% |

| 2 stars | 0 | 0% |

| 1 star | 0 | 0% |

Booking Information and Availability

Visitors can reserve their spot on the Kona Volcano & Waterfall Tour without upfront payment by using the "Reserve now & pay later" option. This allows them to secure their place in advance without an immediate financial commitment.

Participants can check availability for different starting times to find a schedule that suits their needs. During the booking process, visitors can select the date they wish to take the tour and indicate the number of attendees.

The tour has a maximum group size of 5 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience for all guests.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, no outside food or drinks are allowed on the tour. However, the tour includes bottled water and a provided lunch as part of the tour inclusions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour. However, parents should ensure their kids can handle the physical activities and have appropriate gear for the day’s events.

What Should I Wear and Bring for the Tour?

Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes and layers of clothing are recommended, as the tour may involve cool temperatures and wet conditions. Bring sun protection, a camera, and a light snack or water if desired. Dress for an active day outdoors.

Is the Tour Wheelchair or Stroller Accessible?

The tour is not entirely wheelchair or stroller accessible. Some areas, like the Thurston Lava Tube, may have limited accessibility. However, the tour guides can accommodate guests with special needs when possible. It’s best to inquire about accessibility when booking.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

The tour’s duration can be extended for an additional fee, but this must be arranged in advance with the tour operator. Extending the tour is subject to availability and may require additional costs.

Final Words

The "From Kona: Volcano & Waterfall Tour, Small Group" offers an unforgettable experience exploring Hawaii’s Big Island. Visitors will marvel at the volcanic landscapes of Kilauea, traverse the Nāhuku – Thurston Lava Tube, and witness the stunning Rainbow Falls. With a knowledgeable local guide, convenient inclusions, and a small group size, this tour promises an immersive and memorable day in this tropical paradise.