From Oahu: Big Island Volcano Adventure + Helicopter

Imagine flying from the lush, bustling streets of Oahu to the dramatic landscapes of Hawaii’s Big Island in just a few hours. This tour offers an ambitious, full-day adventure that takes you into the core of the island’s volcanic activity, scenic waterfalls, and lush rainforests — topped off with the option of a helicopter ride over lava fields and waterfalls. It’s a sizable commitment at around 14 hours, but the experience delivers some truly unforgettable sights and insights.

What we really like about this tour is its all-inclusive nature — with roundtrip airfare and transportation sorted, you can focus entirely on soaking in the scenery. The standout feature? Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, along with the chance to walk through Nhuku Lava Tube and stand in awe before Akaka Falls. The optional helicopter upgrade adds a jaw-dropping perspective that many travelers find worth the extra cost.

However, a word of caution: weather can impact the helicopter experience. As one reviewer noted, their flight was canceled due to bad weather, which is a reminder to keep flexible plans or be prepared for potential changes.

This adventure is perfect for those who want to see key volcanic and natural highlights of the Big Island in one day, without the hassle of organizing multiple flights or drives. It’s especially suitable for travelers with a sense of curiosity about Hawaii’s geological forces and who enjoy scenic, active days.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with roundtrip inter-island flights from Oahu
• Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including active volcano views
• Walk through ancient lava tubes such as Nhuku
• Scenic drives along Chain of Craters Road showcasing recent lava flows
• Akaka Falls provides a lush rainforest and a stunning 442-foot waterfall
• Optional helicopter tour offers aerial views of lava fields and waterfalls, weather-dependent

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Flying from Oahu to Hilo

Your journey begins with a short, comfortable flight from Honolulu Airport to Hilo. With the airline, Polynesian Adventure, managing the logistics, you can relax knowing your transport is covered. The flight itself is quick, typically under an hour, and offers you a chance to get a glimpse of Oahu’s coastlines from the air.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: The Heart of the Tour

Once on the Big Island, your small-group mini-coach kicks off the exploration at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is where the real magic happens. You’ll get an up-close look at Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and see the Mauna Loa crater, which erupted as recently as 2023. Standing near Halemaumau Crater, which doubled in size after the 2018 eruption, provides a visceral reminder of Earth’s raw power.

The experience here is both educational and awe-inspiring. Your guide will explain how volcanic activity has shaped the island’s landscape, and you’ll see steam vents bubbling away, a testament to ongoing geological activity. The fact that this is a full-day tour means you’ll have plenty of time to absorb these sights and ask questions.

Walking through the Nhuku Lava Tube

Next, you’ll venture into the Nhuku Lava Tube, an impressive underground tunnel formed by ancient lava flows. Walking through this natural passageway surrounded by lush rainforest is a highlight that combines adventure with geology. It’s one of the few ways to see what volcanic activity looked like before the eruptions cooled and solidified. Reviewers frequently mention the surprising lushness around the lava tube, which dispels any notion that volcanic landscapes are barren.

Driving Down Chain of Craters Road

The scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road offers a visual history of recent lava flows, with blackened land stretching toward the ocean. This drive, often described as “striking,” demonstrates how dynamic the island continues to be. You’ll see evidence of recent eruptions and the coastline’s ongoing reshaping, providing a tangible connection to the island’s volcanic activity.

Picnic Lunch amidst Lava Landscapes

Midday, the tour includes a picnic lunch amid the park’s volcanic terrain. This pause allows you to digest the scenery and take some photos of the rugged landscape. The opportunity to dine surrounded by such a unique environment is a special aspect many travelers appreciate.

Akaka Falls and Rainforest Walk

In the afternoon, the tour heads north to Akaka Falls State Park. Here, you’ll walk along well-maintained paths through a tropical rainforest filled with bamboo, orchids, and ferns — a stark contrast to the blackened lava flows. The highlight is Akaka Falls, a breathtaking 442-foot waterfall cascading into a misty gorge. Many describe this as a “must-see” spot, and it’s easy to see why: the sheer scale and power of the waterfall are instantly captivating.

Upgrading to the Helicopter Tour

For those craving an extraordinary view, the helicopter upgrade promises a breathtaking 45-minute flight over the island’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and black-sand beaches. As one reviewer noted, the view of lava fields and waterfalls from above offers a perspective impossible to get from land. Flying over recent lava flows and rugged coastline provides a visceral sense of the ongoing geological change.

Note: The helicopter flight is weather-dependent; a reviewer mentioned that their flight was canceled due to bad weather, which underscores the importance of flexibility. For many, however, this aerial perspective turns the day into a truly memorable experience.

Returning to Oahu

The tour wraps up with a walk back to Hilo Airport for your return flight to Honolulu. It’s worth noting that no hotel transfers are included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation from the airport. The entire day, from departure to return, spans about 14 hours, so energy and comfortable shoes are recommended.

The Value of What’s Included

At $843 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines transportation, sightseeing, and a flight — a package that simplifies planning for travelers wanting to maximize their time. The full-day itinerary covers key highlights of the Big Island’s volcanic activity, lush rainforests, and waterfalls, making it a strong value for those eager to see a lot without multiple bookings.

The roundtrip inter-island flights are particularly useful, as they eliminate the hassle of booking separate flights and transport, streamlining your day. The guided tour also provides local insights and safety, especially important when dealing with active volcanoes and lava tubes.

Considerations on Cost and Experience

While $843 may seem steep, in context, it covers airfare, most entrance fees, transportation, a guide, and a helicopter ride. If you were to piece these elements together independently, costs could add up quickly. Plus, with everything organized, you get to focus on the scenery and learning rather than logistics.

Some travelers, however, might feel the price is high for a single day, especially if the helicopter is canceled. Still, the core experience of visiting the volcanic landscapes and waterfalls remains compelling even without the aerial part.

What Reviewers Say: Authentic Perspectives

A reviewer named Ana expressed that “everything was excellent”, though her helicopter flight was canceled due to weather, which is an important reminder of the unpredictability of flying in such conditions. She notes, “we still don’t know the refund process,” highlighting the importance of checking cancellation policies beforehand.

Other reviews emphasize the stunning views and the ease of having transportation and guides handled, which allows travelers to focus on the scenery. The small-group format adds an intimate feel, often leading to more personalized insights and a relaxed atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive day showcasing the Big Island’s volcanic power. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a structured, all-inclusive package that removes the stress of logistics. If you’re keen on aerial views and have flexible weather expectations, the helicopter upgrade is a real bonus.

However, if long flights or tight schedules don’t fit your plans, or if you’re not comfortable with potential weather cancellations, this tour might require some flexibility. Travelers who enjoy a mix of active exploration, scenic drives, and waterfalls will find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

This all-in-one Oahu to Big Island adventure offers a rare opportunity to witness Hawaii’s volcanic heartbeat in a single day. The carefully curated stops—Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, lava tubes, waterfalls, and optional helicopter flight—offer a well-rounded experience that captures the island’s raw, dynamic beauty.

While the price reflects the convenience and inclusiveness, the true value lies in the unique landscapes and perspectives you’ll gain. The tour suits those eager to combine education, adventure, and stunning scenery into one memorable day, especially if they’re okay with a long, energy-packed schedule.

For travelers seeking a balanced blend of guided comfort and authentic natural beauty, this tour stands out as a reliable, engaging choice. Just keep in mind the weather variability if you’re hoping for the helicopter ride, and plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Honolulu hotel to the airport included?
No, the tour begins at Honolulu Airport, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer from your hotel to the airport.

How long is the flight from Oahu to Hilo?
The flight is relatively short, typically less than an hour, making it a quick way to start your Big Island adventure.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Key highlights include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, walking through Nhuku Lava Tube, visiting Akaka Falls, and the optional helicopter tour.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothes, and water. Note that selfie sticks are not allowed for safety reasons.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the helicopter ride weather-dependent?
Yes, the helicopter flight can be canceled due to weather, as experienced by some travelers; always check the weather forecast closer to your date.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
No hidden costs are specified, but extra seats may be needed if you weigh over 240 pounds, and the second seat can cost an additional 50% of the tour price.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but consider mobility needs for walking through lava tubes and uneven terrain.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary based on availability; check directly when booking to see the specific scheduled times.

In summary, this tour provides a convenient, comprehensive look at the Big Island’s volcanic and natural highlights, perfect for those wanting a full day of awe-inspiring sights without the hassle of separate bookings. It’s a chance to see a living, breathing landscape shaped by fire and water, with the option to elevate the experience through aerial views.