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

The Big Island Volcano Tour offers an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to experience the natural wonders of Hawaii. Featuring a scenic flight from Maui and a thrilling helicopter ride over the active Kilauea volcano, this personalized tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of the earth’s volcanic activity. Complemented by a ground exploration of lush rainforests, cultural landmarks, and a local macadamia nut farm, the tour promises a well-rounded glimpse into the Big Island’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage. With limited availability, this tour is sure to captivate those eager to enjoy the island’s breathtaking beauty.

Key Points

• This tour offers a morning flight from Maui to the Big Island and a 45-minute helicopter ride over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, featuring Kilauea volcano.
• The ground tour includes visits to Liliuokalani Gardens, Rainbow Falls, and a macadamia nut farm, providing insights into the island’s natural wonders and culture.
• The tour is limited to 12 travelers for a personalized experience and features accessibility options, such as infant seats and an extra comfort seat for the helicopter.
• Participants are required to check-in at Kahului Airport 90 minutes before the flight departure and meet the tour guide at the Hilo airport baggage claim.
• The tour is non-refundable, but the helicopter portion may be canceled due to weather conditions, with a $350 refund offered.

Overview of the Tour

The Big Island Volcano Tour offers an exhilarating opportunity to experience the raw power of Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano, without the need to travel to Maui.

The tour includes a morning flight from Maui to the Big Island, followed by a thrilling 45-minute helicopter ride over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

A morning flight from Maui transports you to the Big Island, where a thrilling 45-minute helicopter ride awaits over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

On the ground, the tour explores local highlights like Liliuokalani Gardens and Rainbow Falls.

Limited to just 12 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience. Bottled water and gratuities are included, and the tour is accessible for strollers, though not for wheelchairs.

Flight Details and Check-in

Travelers meet at Kahului Airport, located at 1 Keolani Pl in Kahului, HI 96732, for check-in.

They must arrive 90 minutes prior to the flight’s departure. At check-in, travelers receive their return boarding pass.

After the island-hopper flight from Maui to the Big Island, participants head to the Hilo airport for the helicopter tour.

They’ll meet the tour guide at baggage claim D. The helicopter check-in occurs at the Hilo airport.

This tour has a maximum weight limit of 240 pounds per person, with an extra comfort seat available for an additional $225.

Helicopter Tour Over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

After the island-hopper flight from Maui, participants embark on a 45-minute helicopter tour over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

From above, they’ll gaze upon the active Kilauea volcano, one of the world’s most active. The tour showcases the dramatic landscapes of the national park, including lush rainforests, steam vents, and the famous Halema’uma’u crater.

Passengers enjoy unparalleled aerial views of the island’s volcanic features. The helicopter tour provides an exhilarating and unique perspective on the powerful geological forces that have shaped the Big Island over millennia.

The helicopter tour offers an exhilarating and unique aerial perspective on the powerful geological forces that have shaped the Big Island over millennia.

This aerial adventure is a thrilling highlight of the overall tour experience.

Ground Tour Highlights

Following the ground tour portion, participants explore several iconic highlights of Hilo and the surrounding region.

They’ll visit the colorful Liliuokalani Gardens, a Japanese-style garden with pagodas and bridges along the Wailuku River.

Next, they’ll marvel at the 80-foot Rainbow Falls, a spectacular waterfall tucked into a lush green backdrop.

The tour also includes a stop at a local macadamia nut farm, where guests can sample the delicious Hawaiian treats.

Throughout the 4-hour ground tour, travelers gain deeper insight into the island’s natural wonders and vibrant culture, all while enjoying a personalized experience.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller-friendly. Parents can bring infant seats.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller-friendly. Parents can bring infant seats.

However, the helicopter portion has a 240-pound weight limit. If travelers exceed this, they’ll need to purchase an extra comfort seat for an additional $225.

The tour also warns that the park temperatures can drop to 40°F, so proper layering is recommended.

Due to weather and safety concerns, the helicopter portion may be canceled. In that case, you will receive a $350 refund per person.

The tour is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour price starts from $1,399.99 per person.

This non-refundable tour has a strict cancellation policy – no refunds are offered for cancellations. However, the helicopter portion may be canceled due to weather or safety concerns, in which case a $350 refund per person will be provided.

The tour has received a 5.0 rating based on a single review that highlights the amazing helicopter views and accommodating crew.

With a maximum weight limit of 240 pounds per participant, an extra comfort seat is available for an additional $225 fee.

Guest Reviews and Recommendations

Reviewers rave about the exceptional helicopter tour, which showcases the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes from breathtaking aerial perspectives.

Travelers are amazed by the up-close views of Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano. The crew receives high praise for their professionalism and accommodating nature, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable experience.

The ground tour also earns positive reviews, with visitors highlighting the stunning Liliuokalani Gardens and the powerful Rainbow Falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. However, it’s recommended that parents use their discretion as the tour may not be suitable for very young children given the helicopter ride and park temperatures.

Can I Purchase Meals or Snacks During the Ground Tour?

The ground tour includes bottled water, but travelers must bring their own meals or snacks. There are no planned stops for purchasing food during the tour, so it’s best to come prepared with any desired sustenance.

Does the Tour Include Transportation From the Hilo Airport to the Meeting Point?

No, the tour does not include transportation from the Hilo Airport to the meeting point at Kahului Airport on Maui. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the Kahului Airport for the initial check-in and flight to the Big Island.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment for the Helicopter Ride?

Participants can bring their own camera equipment for the helicopter ride. However, the tour operator recommends using a camera with a wrist strap or secure attachment to prevent it from falling during the flight.

Is There a Dress Code for the Ground Tour Activities?

The tour provider recommends covered shoes for the ground tour activities. Dress code is casual, but visitors should pack layers as park temperatures can drop to 40°F.

The Sum Up

The Big Island Volcano Tour offers a comprehensive and captivating experience. The scenic flight, thrilling helicopter ride, and ground highlights provide a perfect blend of natural wonders and Hawaiian culture. With a small group size and personalized attention, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an unforgettable adventure on the Big Island. Travelers can expect breathtaking views, immersive experiences, and a well-rounded exploration of this remarkable volcanic landscape.