From Oahu: Big Island Volcano Adventure & Helicopter

Travelers seeking a snapshot of Hawaii’s fiery heart and lush landscapes often face the challenge of balancing time, cost, and authentic experiences. The From Oahu: Big Island Volcano Adventure & Helicopter tour offers a convenient way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights in a single day, complete with roundtrip airfare, guided insights, and—if you choose—the thrill of an aerial view.

While it’s a long day—imagine waking up early and packing in a lot—you get a comprehensive taste of Hawaii’s volcanic power, stunning waterfalls, and lush rainforests. We’re especially fans of the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery you’ll encounter. That said, it’s worth noting that weather can sometimes throw a wrench in plans, especially the helicopter ride, so flexibility is key. Perfect for adventure lovers and those short on time, this tour is a solid way to add a Big Island experience to your Hawaii itinerary without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

Key Points

• All-inclusive trip: Flights, transportation, and many sights are covered, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Highlights: Visits to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, and a lava tube walk, plus an optional helicopter tour for extraordinary views.
• Long day: Expect early mornings and a packed schedule—good for those eager to see a lot.
• Weather dependence: The helicopter ride can be canceled due to weather, which might disappoint some travelers.
• Expert guides: Friendly, informative guides often earn praise for enhancing the experience.
• Great value: Combining flights, transport, and multiple sights at a competitive price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: A Full-Day Adventure Packed with Highlights

This tour is designed for travelers who want to see the Big Island’s top sights without the hassle of arranging multiple flights or transportation. Starting from Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, you’ll fly directly to Hilo, the gateway to Hawaii’s volcanic core. On arrival, the day kicks off with a guided small-group tour that covers some of the island’s most striking natural features.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: The Heart of the Tour

Our first stop is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to Klauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, and the recently erupted Mauna Loa. Witnessing these fiery giants up close is a thrill—you’ll see steaming vents, lava fields, and the awe-inspiring Halemaumau Crater. The size of the crater has doubled since the 2018 eruption, a reminder of the island’s ever-changing landscape.

Travelers often comment on the depth of knowledge shared by guides, who explain how volcanic activity shapes the island and Hawaiians’ relationship with the land. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s personable storytelling, making the long day more engaging. Be prepared for a roughly 4-hour exploration within the park, including stops at steam vents, the crater, and scenic drives down Chain of Craters Road, where you can marvel at old lava flows that have cooled and created new land.

Exploring the Lava Tube: Nhuku Thurston Lava Tube

Walking through the Nhuku Lava Tube is like stepping into a natural cathedral. Surrounded by rainforest, the tunnel was formed by flowing lava and is now a fascinating underground feature. The cool, dark environment offers a stark contrast to the volcanic landscape outside, and the experience of walking through an ancient lava tube is often a highlight. Reviewers praise this stop as “a glimpse into the island’s volcanic past,” with one mentioning it as “surprisingly lush and green surrounding the dark tunnel.”

Scenic Drive on Chain of Craters Road

The drive down Chain of Craters Road is a visual feast. The road’s switchbacks reveal layers of cooled lava, while vistas showcase the relentless power of volcanoes. This stretch ends at a rugged coastline, where new land has formed from recent eruptions. It’s a reminder of the island’s constant evolution—an aspect that travelers find both humbling and exhilarating.

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Midday Break and Akaka Falls

A picnic lunch amidst the volcanic scenery allows time to unwind and absorb the surroundings. Afterward, the tour heads north to Akaka Falls State Park. Here, a short walk takes you through lush rainforest filled with bamboo, orchids, and ferns before witnessing the spectacular 442-foot waterfall cascading into a misty gorge below. Many reviews mention how photogenic and iconic Akaka Falls is—a must-see that’s worth the short stroll.

Optional Helicopter Flight: A View from Above

For those wanting to see the island’s volcanic landscape from a different perspective, the 45-minute helicopter tour is a standout addition. Flying over lava fields, cascading waterfalls, and even black sand beaches, you’ll get a sense of Hawaii’s raw geology that’s impossible to fully appreciate from the ground. A handful of reviews mention the weather affecting the helicopter, with one reviewer noting, “the flight was canceled due to clouds, but the refund process was smooth.”

A tip: wear darker clothing during the helicopter, as window reflections can sometimes interfere with photos. For many travelers, the helicopter is the undeniable highlight—an exciting and unforgettable perspective of Hawaii’s volcanic power.

The Practicalities: Logistics, Group Size, and Cost

This tour’s duration of 15.5 hours makes it a long but thoroughly packed day. You’ll need to be prepared for early mornings, as the flight from Oahu departs in the morning and the return flight is scheduled for late afternoon or early evening. The roundtrip airfare is included, which simplifies the logistics—no need to book separate flights or worry about transportation on the island.

The small-group format (not explicitly stated but implied by reviews) tends to enhance the experience, with more personalized attention from guides. The tour’s price seems competitive given what’s included, especially considering the all-day itinerary, park entries, and the helicopter add-on.

Transport is comfortable, and guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. However, you should be aware of the weight restrictions for the helicopter (passengers over 240 pounds pay for an extra seat), and bring a valid ID or passport for TSA security.

Considerations for Travelers

• The weather can impact your plans, especially the helicopter flight—be prepared for possible cancellations or delays.
• Pack comfortable clothing suitable for walking and variable weather conditions.
• Avoid bringing large or heavy bags, as space is limited on the flight.
• Arrive at Honolulu Airport prepared for TSA security, and plan your transportation from the airport upon return.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback from past travelers provides a balanced picture. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, often describing the trip as “a lot of ground covered, but worth every minute.” One traveler from the UK noted, “Our guide was full of information and stories. The helicopter was a highlight.”

However, some reviews mention logistical hiccups—such as guides not being allowed to meet at the airport or weather cancellations. One reviewer felt the long driving distances and the early start were tiring but acknowledged the value of seeing so much in a single day.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who love to see a lot in a day without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s ideal for those eager to witness Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and rainforests firsthand, especially if they’re comfortable with long days and early mornings. The small-group format enhances the experience for those who enjoy a more personal touch, and the helicopter upgrade is perfect for travelers craving breathtaking aerial views.

It’s not the best choice for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace or have mobility issues, as the day involves a fair amount of walking and travel. If weather is poor, particularly for the helicopter, be prepared for possible schedule adjustments. Overall, it offers great value for those wanting a comprehensive, action-packed Big Island experience from Oahu.

The Sum Up

The From Oahu: Big Island Volcano Adventure & Helicopter tour packs a remarkable amount of Hawaiian natural beauty into one day. It’s well-suited for travelers who want an easy, guided experience that covers the island’s most iconic volcanic, waterfalls, and rainforest sights without the hassle of coordinating multiple trips.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, who bring the landscape alive with stories and insights, and the stunning views from both ground and air. The inclusion of the helicopter ride is a real bonus, offering a perspective you simply cannot get from the ground.

While the long hours and weather dependence require some flexibility, many reviewers find the experience well worth the effort. If you’re looking for a convenient, all-in-one adventure that showcases the raw power and beauty of the Big Island, this tour is a solid choice—especially for those eager to pack a lot into a single day.

FAQ

Is airfare included in this tour?
Yes, roundtrip flights from Honolulu to Hilo are included, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

How long is the entire day?
The tour lasts approximately 15.5 hours, so be prepared for an early start and a full day of sightseeing.

Can I upgrade the experience with a helicopter tour?
Yes, the helicopter ride is an optional upgrade that lasts about 45 minutes, offering spectacular views of lava flows, waterfalls, and volcanic craters.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothes, and be prepared for variable weather conditions. Avoid large or heavy bags due to FAA restrictions.

What if the helicopter flight gets canceled due to weather?
Weather can impact helicopter flights; in case of cancellation, you’ll be refunded for that portion, and the rest of the tour proceeds as planned.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes and waterfalls, and are comfortable with a long, active day.

This tour offers an exciting, well-organized way to see the Big Island’s most dramatic sights from both land and sky, making it a worthwhile addition to your Hawaiian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby