Hilo’s 7 Best National Park Tours: Which To Choose?

The 7 Best National Park Tours in Hilo

Hilo makes an excellent base for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park thanks to its proximity to the park’s most dramatic sights. Unlike more touristy islands where the scenery can feel staged, Hilo offers a more relaxed vibe and easy access to some of the island’s most iconic volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re interested in soaring above the volcanoes on a helicopter, exploring them on guided tours, or enjoying a private experience tailored to your schedule, Hilo provides a wealth of options. With lush rainforests, black sand beaches, and active craters, these tours promise authentic encounters with the island’s geological marvels.

Many tours emphasize active volcano viewing, lava tubes, waterfalls, and local highlights like Rainbow Falls and the Thurston Lava Tube. Since weather can impact visibility, especially in a rainforest climate, it pays to pick the right tour for your interests and comfort level. Planning ahead means securing a spot for popular tours such as the Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight or the Full-Day Guided Tour.

Quick Overview of the Best Hilo National Park Tours

Below, you’ll find a mix of helicopter flights, full-day guided adventures, and private tours that showcase the island’s volcanic wonders. Whether you prefer a quick helicopter thrill or a comprehensive exploration with a local guide, each offers a unique way to experience this volcanic landscape. For more details, visit the respective tour pages linked in each section.

1. Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight

Flying over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on this helicopter tour is a breathtaking way to see the island’s volcanic activity from above. For around $379 per person, this one-hour flight takes off from 2220 Kekuanaoa St and offers stunning views of Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano, as well as the Kilauea caldera, one of the most active volcanic craters on earth. The flight covers waterfalls plunging into lush jungles, the Pu‘u ‘O‘o‘ cone, and peaks like Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, giving you a comprehensive aerial perspective of the island’s volcanic landscape.

The thrill of soaring over the caldera, combined with the chance to see dynamic geological changes—weather permitting—makes this a bucket-list experience. Travelers repeatedly praise the professional pilots and the safety of the flight, with reviews highlighting the sense of awe and the educational aspect of the commentary. Keep in mind that weather can impact visibility, but if the skies are clear, this tour offers some of the most spectacular views of Hawaii’s volcanic giants.

Bottom Line: If you want a quick, high-impact overview of the volcanoes from the air and don’t mind the weather dependency, this helicopter flight is tough to beat.

2. From Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour

For a more in-depth experience, this full-day guided tour takes you to the core landmarks of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including Rainbow Falls, Thurston Lava Tube, and the Halema’uma’u Crater overlook. At only $175 per person, it offers excellent value for a five-hour trip filled with informative narration and diverse sights.

Your guide will share stories and insights about the island’s geology, culture, and history while guiding you to key volcanic sites. Highlights include walking through the Thurston Lava Tube, which is a 500-year-old volcanic tunnel, and gazing into the glowing crater of Kilauea (if activity permits). The tour also stops at the Big Island Candies store, adding a sweet local flavor to the day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenery, education, and relaxation, without the intense physical effort of some longer hikes. Reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see waterfalls, volcanic craters, and lush rainforests all in one day.

Bottom Line: A great choice for those who want a rundown of Hilo’s volcanic and natural attractions in half a day.

3. Big Island: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Tour

This 7-hour guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of the island’s volcanic core, including a visit to Kilauea and the Nahuku Lava Tube. It begins with a pickup from Hilo and includes stops at Rainbow Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Liliuokalani Gardens. You’ll explore the world’s most active volcano, walk inside the Nahuku Lava Tube, and enjoy an island-infused lunch.

The tour’s strength lies in its detailed itinerary, which combines outdoor exploration with a taste of local cuisine. Visitors rave about guides like Desmond and Anthony, who provide engaging commentary on local geology, culture, and folklore. The tour offers excellent opportunities for photographs of volcanic craters, black sand beaches, and lush waterfalls.

Priced at $189 per person, the value is solid considering the depth of sightseeing and storytelling provided. It’s ideal for travelers who want a longer experience and an educational day exploring multiple facets of Hawaii’s volcanic landscape.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a full-day, immersive tour with expert guides and diverse sights.

4. Private Shore Excursion Hilo Volcanoes National Park up to 11 PPL

This private tour, priced at $1,495 for up to 11 people, offers a tailor-made experience. The fully narrated 6-hour trip takes you inside Volcanoes National Park to see the crater, steam vents, Thurston Lava Tube, and Rainbow Falls. It is perfect for families or small groups who want flexibility and personalized attention.

Guides like Jodi and Rob have high praise for their knowledge and ability to customize the day based on your interests. The itinerary includes visiting the most scenic and lesser-visited parts of the park, with the opportunity for multiple stops at key volcanic sites. The private format ensures you avoid the crowds and get detailed explanations about each stop.

This tour provides an intimate insight into the volcanic landscape, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s best suited for travelers willing to invest more for a personalized, relaxed experience or those traveling with family or friends.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a flexible, private experience with expert guidance.

5. Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour – Hilo Shore Excursion

At around $196, this shore excursion accommodates cruise passengers eager to explore Hawaii’s volcanoes in about six hours. It covers Rainbow Falls, Richardson’s black sand beach, Kilauea Volcano, and the Liliuokalani Gardens. The tour also includes walking through a lava tube and a visit to a macadamia nut factory.

The tour’s focus is on the top natural landmarks, with a mix of sightseeing and light walking. The guides provide informative commentary, and reviews mention that they go out of their way to make the experience memorable—sometimes even adjusting for eruption activity. Snacks and bottled water are included, adding to the convenience.

Ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time, this tour balances sightseeing with comfort. While not as comprehensive as a full-day adventure, it hits the key highlights for a well-rounded view of the volcanoes.

Bottom Line: A reliable, efficient way to see Hawaii’s volcanic highlights if your time ashore is limited.

6. Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Fall in Hilo, Hawaii

This 6-7 hour tour combines scenic stops like Liliuokalani Gardens, Hilo Bayfront Beach Park, and Rainbow Falls. It emphasizes the cultural charm of Hilo’s historic downtown and showcases the legendary Rainbow Falls, where rainbows form over the 80-foot cascade.

The tour offers a good variety of sights, including Japanese-style gardens and black sand beaches, with practical insights on local life. Reviews mention that despite some schedule adjustments, the trip provided a great overview of Hilo’s natural and cultural attractions. The tour appeals to travelers wanting a relaxed pace and scenic variety.

Priced at $175 per person, it’s a solid option for those who want a moderate day of sightseeing with some flexibility and insights into local history and legends.

Bottom Line: A relaxed, scenic tour with a focus on cultural highlights and natural beauty.

7. Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Private Tour

The private Volcanoes National Park and Hilo tour offers a customizable experience for up to four people at $1,395. It provides a tailored itinerary that can include anything from volcanic craters to black sand beaches or orchid gardens. Your guide, Scott, has a reputation for expert knowledge and personalized service, ensuring your interests are the focus.

This tour is especially suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible day with no rushing. It allows visits to lesser-visited areas and the ability to linger longer at favorite spots. The short 5-hour duration makes it more manageable, especially if you prefer a less structured experience.

This is an excellent option for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke adventure with plenty of expert guidance.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a private, flexible tour with a personalized touch.

How to Choose the Best Tour for You

When selecting your ideal Hilo volcano tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a quick, spectacular overview, the helicopter flight offers unmatched aerial views. If you prefer an educational day with a guide explaining Hawaiian culture and geology, the full-day guided tour or the private experience are ideal. Budget travelers might opt for the shore excursion, which covers key sights efficiently.

For those who want a custom experience, the private tour provides flexibility and personal attention. Keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so having options or flexible plans helps ensure a memorable visit.

Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and tour type. Most tours are suitable year-round, but summer and winter bring more visitors, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Hilo offers a diverse set of ways to experience Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Whether you opt for a stunning helicopter ride, a guided exploration, or a private tailored adventure, each tour provides a different perspective on the island’s fiery landscapes. For travelers craving a quick overview, the helicopter flight is spectacular. For those seeking a comprehensive experience, guided tours with in-depth storytelling are ideal. And if you want total flexibility, the private tours make a perfect choice.

No matter your choice, booking early helps secure your spot at the most popular times. With these options, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the awe-inspiring power of Hawaii’s volcanic forces firsthand.