The Private VAN Tour Hilo from Kapohokine Adventures offers an unparalleled journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii’s Big Island. Over 7 hours, guests can explore black sand beaches, iconic waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With hotel pickup/drop-off, snacks, and beverages provided, this customizable excursion allows visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to witness Kilauea’s volcanic activity up close.
Key Points
- The Private VAN Tour offers a comprehensive 7-hour excursion on the Big Island, exploring the Puna District, black sand beaches, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- The tour includes national park fees, beverages, snacks, and hotel pickup/drop-off, but excludes entrance fees to private locations, zipline, helicopter, and meals.
- Visitors can witness the active Kilauea volcano, explore the tranquil thermal pools, and discover the unique black sand beaches formed by cooling lava.
- The tour includes visits to iconic waterfalls, such as Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Kulaniapia Falls, showcasing Hawaii’s natural beauty.
- The tour is operated by Kapohokine Adventures and offers customizable options to provide an immersive experience in discovering the island’s highlights.
Overview of the Private VAN Tour
The Private VAN Tour of the Big Island of Hawaii offers a comprehensive 7-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of the Puna District, black sand beaches, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, iconic waterfalls, and the Waipio Valley Lookout.
This private, customizable tour is operated by Kapohokine Adventures and includes national park fees, beverages, snacks, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
While entrance fees to private locations, zipline, helicopter, and meals aren’t included, the tour provides a versatile and immersive experience for visitors to discover the island’s highlights at their own pace.
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Exploring the Puna District
Nestled on the eastern side of the Big Island, the Puna District beckons visitors to explore its captivating natural landscapes.
From the iconic black sand beaches to the lush, verdant rainforests, this region offers a diverse array of geological wonders. Guests will have the opportunity to witness the raw power of Kilauea volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
The tour also includes a visit to tranquil thermal pools, where visitors can relax and enjoy the island’s geothermal energy.
With its unique blend of natural beauty and volcanic activity, the Puna District promises an unforgettable experience.
Discovering Black Sand Beaches
One of the highlights of the Puna District tour is the opportunity to discover the captivating black sand beaches.
Formed by the cooling of lava, these unique beaches offer a striking contrast to the typical golden sands. Guests can stroll along the dark, volcanic shores, marveling at the power of the island’s geological history.
The black sand, created by the fragmentation of lava, creates a mesmerizing, almost otherworldly landscape. Visitors can dip their toes in the cool, clear waters and soak in the serene atmosphere of these remarkable natural wonders.
Taking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
As the tour continues, guests enjoy the awe-inspiring grandeur of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The tour explores:
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Kilauea Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, with its smoking caldera and lava flows.
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Thurston Lava Tube, a spectacular underground cave formed by ancient lava flows.
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Devastation Trail, a haunting landscape left in the wake of a 1959 volcanic eruption.
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Sulphur banks, where visitors can witness the volcanic activity up close while keeping a safe distance.
The park’s diverse landscapes and geological wonders leave a lasting impression on guests, deepening their understanding of Hawaii’s dynamic volcanic origins.
Encountering Iconic Waterfalls
The tour then ventures to witness some of the island’s most iconic and awe-inspiring waterfalls.
Guests behold the thundering Akaka Falls, plunging 442 feet into a lush, verdant gorge.
Next, they visit Waianuenue, also known as Rainbow Falls, where the Wailuku River cascades over a 80-foot cliff, creating a captivating rainbow effect.
The tour also showcases the tiered Kulaniapia Falls, a tranquil oasis surrounded by tropical foliage.
These natural wonders leave visitors in awe of Hawaii’s extraordinary beauty and power.
Visiting the Waipio Valley Lookout
Next, the tour ventures to the Waipio Valley Lookout, where guests can gaze out over this stunning natural wonder.
The Waipio Valley, nestled between towering cliffs, is renowned for its natural beauty.
Visitors can:
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Marvel at the lush, green valley floor nearly 2,000 feet below.
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Spot waterfalls cascading down the valley walls.
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Imagine the rich history and culture of the area.
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Photograph the breathtaking vistas from the lookout point.
This scenic stop offers a chance to appreciate the grandeur of Hawai’i’s landscape before continuing the adventure.
Inclusions and Pickup Information
According to the provided information, the private tour includes several noteworthy inclusions.
The tour covers national park fees, beverages, snacks, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests will enjoy a private experience with just their party and a guide/driver.
A private tour experience with national park fees, beverages, snacks, and hotel transportation included, along with a dedicated guide/driver.
However, the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to private locations, zipline, helicopter, and meals.
Pickup can be arranged from a selected location, with the tour starting at 9:00 am. Confirmation is received at booking, unless within 1 day of travel, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, requiring appropriate attire.
Pricing, Cancellation, and Reviews
Although the private tour has a starting price of $2,302.51 per person, it offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, allowing guests to reserve now and pay later for greater flexibility.
The tour also provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Regarding reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 5 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, though no 5-star ratings have been recorded.
Key details:
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Price: From $2,302.51 per person
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
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Lowest Price Guarantee
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Overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 5 reviews
The Sum Up
The Private VAN Tour Hilo provides an exceptional opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island. From captivating black sand beaches to the awe-inspiring Kilauea volcano, this customizable 7-hour excursion offers a comprehensive and personalized experience. With hotel pickup, snacks, and beverages included, guests can effortlessly explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks, creating unforgettable memories.
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