Exploring Big Island of Hawaii offers a mix of volcanic wonder, lush rainforests, and unique geological features that no other Hawaiian island can match. Its vast size, active volcanoes, and diverse landscapes make it a prime destination for National Park tours. Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush, a relaxing scenic drive, or a personalized guide, this island is packed with options that give you a front-row seat to some of nature’s most dramatic displays. From flying over lava flows on a helicopter to trekking into Kilauea’s caldera with a small group, each tour offers a different way to experience the island’s powerful volcanoes and lush surroundings.
If you want to see lava eruptions, walk through lava tubes, or simply enjoy a scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road, there’s a tour tailored to your interests and fitness level. Booking early is key, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out on these exceptional adventures.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best National Park tours in Big Island covers a range of experiences—from helicopter safaris (Volcanoes National Park Safari) that fly you close to active volcanoes, to detailed self-guided driving tours (Big Island – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour) for those who prefer exploring at their own pace. For cruise passengers, there’s a comprehensive shore excursion (Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion) that covers key highlights, while private options (Private Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park) cater to travelers seeking tailored experiences. Budget-conscious visitors can opt for inexpensive driving tours (Big Island – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour), whereas those wanting an ultra-personalized day can choose private guides (Private – All Inclusive Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Tour).
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each offering, helping you decide which fits your itinerary and style best.
1. Volcanoes National Park Safari
Fly from Hilo Airport into the world of volcanoes, rainbows, and waterfalls with this helicopter tour operated by the island’s longest-running family business. Your pilot doubles as a guide, sharing insights about lava flows, orchid farms, and lush forests. The flight offers breathtaking views of lava fields, volcanic craters, and native rainforest. Weather can be unpredictable, but even in cloudy conditions, pilots often find ways to show waterfalls and scenic vistas. Prices are around $379 per person for about 55 minutes of flight time, making it a spectacular but not budget-busting way to see the island from above.
Guests often mention the safety professionalism of the crew and the informative commentary, even if weather prevents an eruption sighting. It’s best suited for families and those comfortable with small aircraft. The main highlight is soaring over active volcanoes and rare orchid farms, giving perspective not just of the landscape but of the island’s volcanic heartbeat.
Bottom line: An unforgettable experience for those who want a quick, scenic thrill with expert narration—perfect if you’re willing to roll with the weather and splurge a bit.
2. Hawaii Volcano National Park Shore Excursion
This full-day cruise port tour is designed for those arriving in Hilo who want to maximize their time exploring the geological marvels of the island. It’s a well-paced trip that takes you to Rainbow Falls, Honoli’i Beach, and the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Your guide is a local storyteller, narrating about surfers, waterfalls, and native plants as you pass over narrow jungle roads and ancient bridges. The highlight is the 2.5-hour stop at the park, where you’ll walk around steam vents and see Kilauea in action—though eruptions are unpredictable, the views of recently active lava are awe-inspiring when available.
Rated a perfect 5 stars, guests appreciate the personalized narration and efficient itinerary. It’s best for travelers looking for a comprehensive, engaging experience without the hassle of planning. For just $149, you get a taste of the island’s natural beauty, with multiple stops that other tours simply can’t match.
Bottom line: Excellent value for a full day dedicated to volcano and waterfall sights, with a knowledgeable guide making it a lively and informative trip.
3. Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion: Volcanoes National Park Rainbow Falls
If your cruise only allows a few hours in Hilo, this 4.5-hour tour offers a quick but rich dose of the island’s top sights. You’ll visit Rainbow Falls, a towering 80-foot waterfall famous for its rainbows, and then explore Kilauea’s volcanic craters. The tour promises guaranteed on-time return and includes port pickup and drop-off, reducing stress. The stops are designed to showcase Mauna Loa and Kilauea, giving you a sense of the volcano’s might without needing a full-day commitment.
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and ease of logistics, especially for cruise passengers. The tour is ideal if you want a snapshot of Hawai’i’s volcanic landscapes before returning to your ship.
Bottom line: A reliable, well-reviewed option for cruise visitors wanting a concise but meaningful experience.
4. Big Island – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour
For those who prefer exploring at their own pace, this self-guided two-day tour offers hours of audio commentary, offline maps, and turn-by-turn directions. It covers highlights like the Thurston Lava Tube, Chain of Craters Road, and Devastation Trail. The virtual guide even features local music, making each drive more immersive. The cost is just $19.99, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers comfortable with driving and planning their own schedule.
Many reviewers praise its flexibility and rich content, noting that it allows detailed exploration of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park without the pressure of a guided group. It’s perfect for independent travelers who want comprehensive background while customizing their day.
Bottom line: The best value for self-sufficient travelers eager to discover volcanoes at their own speed, with detailed guides in hand.
5. Private Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This private tour is tailored for families or small groups up to four, with a dedicated guide for 2-3 hours. The focus is on personalized insights into volcanoes, rainforests, and lava flows. Early morning options allow you to see the sunrise over Kilauea, an experience only possible with a private arrangement. The cost is $595, which includes a private vehicle and flexible itinerary.
Guests rave about the guide’s enthusiasm and ability to customize the experience. It’s well suited for travelers seeking intimate, in-depth exploration without the constraints of a group.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for small groups wanting a customized, private experience that digs deeper than typical tours.
6. Private Sprinter Van 10 Seats Tour from Kona Coast to Volcanoes National Park
Spending a day traveling from Kona? This private 9-hour tour lets you customize your itinerary with stops like Rainbow Falls, Thurston Lava Tube, and Mauna Loa. The van seats up to ten, and you can switch up stops based on your interests. The cost is $287, offering a good balance of privacy, flexibility, and value.
Guests appreciate the personal attention and the freedom to include additional stops like Onomea Bay or the botanical gardens. It’s perfect for those who want to explore beyond the standard and need a more flexible schedule.
Bottom line: The best fit for groups wanting a custom day trip from Kona with the flexibility to choose their sights.
7. Volcanoes National Park Private Tour
This private 5-6 hour tour gives you a personal guide to explore the highlights like Kilauea’s caldera, steam vents, and Chain of Craters Road. The guide can tailor your experience, including walking into lava tubes or hiking near active craters. Costing $1,395 for up to four people, it’s great for families or small groups who want a comprehensive, in-depth visit.
Reviewers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, saying they appreciated the tailored experience. It’s ideal if you want a more detailed, intimate look at the volcanoes.
Bottom line: A premium private option for those seeking a personalized, immersive visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
8. Meet in the park – Private Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour
This 3-hour private tour focuses on Kilauea and the recent changes in the park. It’s perfect for travelers who want a short, focused experience with a local guide. The tour includes rainforest walks, steam vents, and recent volcanic activity. Cost is $595 for up to six people, making it a good value for small groups.
Guests praise the guide’s detailed explanations and local insights, making the most of a limited time. It’s especially suited for visitors who have limited availability but want to see the highlights with expert narration.
Bottom line: A solid, personalized half-day for those interested in active volcanoes and recent geological changes.
9. Custom Volcanoes National Park Tour with extra stops
This 7-hour privately customized tour is designed for flexibility. You can include visits to Punalu’u black sand beach, Japanese Gardens, or Hilo Coffee Farm—plus additional stops based on your interests. The guide provides a personalized experience, with water, snacks, and entrance fees included for $1,795 for up to 11 people.
Reviewers note the guide’s enthusiasm and ability to craft a tour based on your preferences. It’s best if you’re looking for a tailor-made experience that covers more than just volcanoes.
Bottom line: Ideal for groups wanting a bespoke day with multiple attractions beyond the volcanoes.
10. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from Oahu
Travelers based in Oahu can fly over for this full-day trip costing around $589.99. It includes inter-island flights, round-trip transfer, and visits to Kilauea, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and Kona coffee farms. You’ll see steam vents, lava tubes, and halemaumau crater—a perfect way to experience Big Island’s volcanic landscape in one day.
Guests appreciate how seamless the experience is, especially with included flights, and highlight the guide’s energy and knowledge. It’s perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see Hawai’i’s volcanic highlights.
Bottom line: An efficient, comprehensive way for Oahu visitors to experience Hawai’i Volcanoes without extra planning.
How to Choose the Right Big Island Tour
When selecting a National Park tour in Big Island, consider your budget, available time, and interest level. If you want a quick, breathtaking overview, a helicopter safari like the Volcanoes National Park Safari offers an unforgettable perspective from above. For independent explorers, the self-guided driving tour provides hours of detailed narration at a low cost.
If a private guide sounds more your style, the Private Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the All-Inclusive Private Tour deliver personalized experiences with extra flexibility. For cruise travelers, the Hilo Shore Excursion is a reliable choice for a short, impactful visit.
Remember, the best tours fill up fast during peak seasons, so plan ahead and book early to lock in your preferred date and style.
Final Thoughts
Big Island is a volcanic wonderland, offering everything from helicopter flights that soar over erupting volcanoes to guided hikes into lava tubes. Whether you prefer a self-guided adventure or a private, tailored experience, the options on this list provide a wide range of ways to explore the island’s fiery landscape. Two standout choices are the Volcanoes National Park Safari for sheer thrill and aerial views or the Private All-Inclusive Tour for a full, worry-free day with expert guidance.
Travelers with limited time will appreciate the Hilo Shore Excursion, while those seeking a highly personalized tour should consider the Private Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour. Ultimately, planning your trip early and choosing a tour that matches your comfort level and curiosity will ensure a memorable volcanic adventure on the Big Island.