Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight

Taking to the skies over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an adventure that promises spectacular sights, from glowing calderas to lush waterfalls. This helicopter tour from Hilo, offered by Safari Helicopters, has earned a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 200 reviews. While it’s priced at $379 per person, many travelers agree it’s a worthwhile investment for the unforgettable views and insights into the island’s volcanic activity.

What stands out most is how this flight offers a bird’s-eye perspective on the island’s most iconic features, including Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, as well as the turbulent, constantly changing landscape of Kilauea. If you’re craving a once-in-a-lifetime view of active volcanoes and lush waterfalls in one swoop, this tour will satisfy that craving.

However, a potential consideration is that weather can impact visibility—the experience is weather-dependent, which means cloud cover or rain might limit some of the vistas. This can be frustrating if the sky is overcast but expect the pilot to adjust routes for safety and the best possible experience. This tour best suits those who are comfortable with heights, enjoy scenic aerial perspectives, and want to learn about the volcanic activity shaping the Big Island.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Get an aerial look at volcanoes, calderas, waterfalls, and lush landscapes.
• Expert Pilots: Guides like Sam and Drew are praised for their safety-conscious, knowledgeable approach.
• Weather Dependent: The experience hinges on clear skies; weather can influence what you see.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of just 6 people ensure an intimate, personalized experience.
• Time & Flexibility: About an hour of flight with flexible booking options, including free cancellation.
• Great Value: For $379, you gain a detailed, eye-opening perspective of Hawaii’s volcanic forces.

The Experience: What You Can Expect on This Aerial Tour

Starting from the Safari Helicopters office at 2220 Kekuanaoa St, your adventure kicks off with a quick briefing and safety instructions. The small group size keeps the experience personal, and the pilot sets a tone of professionalism and friendliness.

Once airborne, the journey quickly reveals the island’s most dramatic features. Expect to fly directly over the Kilauea caldera, a constantly active volcano that has reshaped the landscape. Many reviewers note the thrill of seeing the caldera’s vastness and the glowing lava vents, even if only from the sky.

You’ll also get sweeping views of Pu’uo’o, the volcanic cone that adds to the island’s rugged silhouette. As you soar, the pilot might alter the route based on weather conditions, prioritizing clear views and safety. One reviewer, Anne, appreciated her pilot Drew’s attentiveness, feeling safe at all times while enjoying the spectacular scenery.

The flight then guides you over the massive Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, offering perspectives that are impossible to get from the ground. These giants dominate the landscape, and seeing them from above underscores their size and power. Many travelers comment on how humbling it is to witness these monumental landforms from the air, as Myriam describes it as “something really magic.”

An additional highlight is the chance to witness waterfalls plunging into dense jungles. These splashes of white against lush greenery are particularly striking, creating deep blue pools and misty surroundings that add to the visual feast. Agnes Brunner called it “totally amazing,” emphasizing the indescribable beauty of these waterfalls.

Finally, the tour takes you over new lava fields—some still actively forming—as well as older, cooled lava flows. These areas are a testament to the island’s volcanic activity and provide an immersive view of Hawaii’s fiery heart.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Safari Helicopters office, where safety briefings and introductions are handled efficiently. The first major stop is over Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From here, the real magic begins.

Flying over Kilauea, you’ll see the caldera, which is not only a geological marvel but also a constantly evolving feature. Reviewers like Patrick appreciated the professionalism of pilots like Sam, who is described as knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.

Next, the flight moves to Puu’O’o, a volcanic cone that symbolizes ongoing volcanic activity. This area captures the raw, dynamic nature of the island. Then, the attention shifts to Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, towering above the landscape and offering perspective on their size and influence.

The final scenic highlights are the waterfalls in the jungle and the lava fields—both old and new—that showcase the island’s volcanic growth. The waterfalls are especially appreciated by those who love nature’s artistry, as they create beautiful pools and misty atmospheres.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, with many guests commenting how this flight changed their understanding of Hawaii’s geology and natural power.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter experience is perfect for travelers who are eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic landscape from an exciting vantage point. It’s especially appealing to those interested in geology, natural phenomena, or just wanting a memorable adventure. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which many reviews highlight as a positive aspect.

It’s also great for travelers with a flexible schedule, as the duration is about an hour, and the availability varies. However, those who are afraid of heights, pregnant, or have mobility/health restrictions may want to reconsider, given safety and comfort considerations.

The Value of This Experience

At $379, the tour might seem steep for some, but considering the exclusive views, expert guides, and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see active volcanoes from above, many perceive it as worth the cost. Reviewers repeatedly mention how this experience provided “great value,” especially when compared to the cost of alternative sightseeing options or ground-based tours.

The small group setting ensures you’re not just a number, making the experience more immersive and tailored. Plus, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation provides peace of mind, especially for travelers unsure about weather conditions.

The Sum Up

The Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight offers a unique lens into the island’s volcanic core. It’s an immersive experience that combines breathtaking aerial views with insightful commentary from knowledgeable pilots. With the chance to glimpse rare active volcanic features, towering volcanoes, and cascading waterfalls, this tour is a highlight for anyone wanting to understand the powerful natural forces shaping Hawaii.

This experience best suits adventurous travelers, geology buffs, and those craving memorable, photo-worthy vistas. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate small-group, personalized tours with flexible booking options.

While weather can impact what you see, the overall feedback suggests that most guests leave with unforgettable memories and a renewed appreciation for Hawaii’s geological wonders. If you’re seeking a thrilling, educational, and visually stunning adventure, this helicopter tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 2 years old, and generally, it’s geared towards older children, teens, and adults comfortable with heights.

What should I bring?
You should bring your passport or ID card and a credit card for payment. Dressing comfortably and wearing layers is advisable, as cockpit temperatures can vary.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, or individuals afraid of heights. Also, passengers over 250 lbs (113 kg) need to purchase an extra seat, and those unable to sit upright are not permitted.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the experience depends on weather conditions, poor weather may lead to route adjustments or rescheduling. The pilot aims to maximize visibility and safety.

How long is the flight?
The duration is approximately one hour, but check availability for specific starting times as these can vary.

Can I see lava from the tour?
While the caldera and volcanic activity are visible from the air, actual lava flows are not guaranteed due to weather and safety considerations. However, many reviews highlight the thrill of seeing active volcanic regions.

This helicopter tour from Hilo is an exceptional way to see Hawaii’s volcanic landscape from a perspective few get to enjoy. Combining stunning visuals, knowledgeable guides, and the thrill of flying, it offers a memorable experience worth considering for your Big Island adventure.