Kilauea Volcano Eruption – 105 Min Heli Tour-Doors Off or On

Discovering the Kilauea Volcano by Helicopter: An In-Depth Review

If you’re considering a helicopter ride over Hawaii’s Big Island to see Kilauea’s erupting volcano, you’re in for an adventure that promises spectacular sights and a sense of raw earth power. This tour, offered by Rainbow Helicopters, takes you on a roughly 105-minute flight over one of the world’s most active volcanoes. While the promise of witnessing flowing lava and lush landscapes sounds incredible, it’s worth exploring the details and potential pitfalls before booking.

What we really like about this experience are the breathtaking aerial views of lava rivers meeting the ocean — a fiery spectacle visible only from the sky — and the chance to see the contrast of vibrant green forests against stark black lava flows. These sights can be hard to appreciate from land or viewing points on the ground, making the helicopter a special vantage point. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the steep price tag of $1,080 per person, which might seem high considering the mixed online reviews.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value authentic, awe-inspiring scenery and are comfortable with aerial adventures. If you’re passionate about volcanoes, geology, or Hawaii’s natural forces, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip. However, those on a tight budget or looking for a flawless experience may want to weigh the costs and reviews carefully.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The flight offers views of flowing lava, black lava fields, and lush forests, which are often inaccessible from the ground.
• Flight Duration and Cost: It’s approximately 1.5 hours long, costing around $1,080 per person, a significant investment for most travelers.
• Weather Dependency: Like all outdoor aerial tours, the experience hinges on good weather; poor conditions can lead to cancellations or limited visibility.
• Tour Experience: The tour includes parking fees, a guide/driver, and a phone strap, with options for doors off or on.
• Passenger Limits and Safety: With a maximum of 15 travelers, the group is small enough for personal attention, but weight restrictions may add extra fees.
• Mixed Reviews: While some praise the views and the guides, one reviewer felt misled about what they’d see, highlighting the importance of managing expectations.

Analyzing the Experience: What to Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at a meeting point on Pao’o Street in Kaiminani, with the main focus being a fly-over the erupting Kilauea volcano. Since the main feature is the aerial view, the actual “itinerary” is straightforward — a single but incredibly immersive flight over the volcano and surrounding terrain.

You’ll soar at around 4,091 feet above sea level, giving you sweeping vistas of the black lava fields, steaming vents, and rivers of molten lava that have shaped the island over the past six decades. The highlight is undoubtedly observing the lava meeting the ocean — often a steam and fire spectacle that’s uniquely accessible by helicopter.

The Views: Lava, Forests, and More

From the cockpit, the contrast is striking: vibrant green forests surround the volcano, providing a lush backdrop that emphasizes the volcanic landscape’s raw power. The black lava fields look almost surreal, winding across the terrain like a cracked, charred skin. When lava flows toward the ocean, you’ll witness a natural display of fire and steam that’s otherwise hard to see from the ground.

Doors Off or On?

This tour offers the option of flying doors off or on. For those seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush, the doors-off experience is available; just remember, jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are a must. Be aware that your seat might not be directly next to an open door, meaning your view could vary. The thrill of feeling the wind while flying over one of the planet’s most active volcanoes is undeniable but requires a sense of adventure and comfort with heights.

The Cost and Its Value

At $1,080 per person, the tour is certainly not cheap. It’s a premium experience, justified in part by the rarity of the views and the helicopter’s ability to access areas that land-based tours can’t reach. The price includes parking fees, a guide/driver, and a phone strap for safety.

However, based on at least one review, some travelers felt misled about what they could expect — “we paid $2,200 for two tickets to see the live volcano,” a reviewer lamented, implying the experience might not always live up to expectations. It’s worth considering whether this tour’s unique aerial perspective aligns with your priorities and budget.

Group Size and Safety

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains a small-group feel, which can enhance the experience. The operator emphasizes safety, with weight limits and policies about service animals and intoxication. Guests weighing over 260 pounds face an extra fee (up to 50% of the ticket price), which is common in small aircraft flights but adds a layer of planning.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

What Travelers Love

Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides that help make the experience more engaging, often providing context about the volcano’s activity and the island’s geology. The stunning aerial views are the main draw, offering sights impossible to see from land. The ability to witness the lava’s fiery dance from above makes this a memorable trip for those fascinated by Earth’s dynamic processes.

Potential Downsides

The main concern raised in reviews is the discrepancy between expectations and reality. One reviewer felt they were misled about the visibility of the volcano, indicating that the tour doesn’t always deliver the “live volcano” experience everyone hopes for. Weather plays a significant role in this, and volcanic activity can fluctuate, making some eruptions less visible or more obscured by clouds.

Practical Considerations

• Weather: Be prepared for cancellations or limited views if the weather turns bad. The operator allows free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Appropriate Clothing: Long pants, jackets, and closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially for doors-off options.
• Weight Restrictions: If you or a fellow traveler weigh over 260 pounds, expect additional fees or extra seat purchases.
• Booking in Advance: The tour is often booked 19 days ahead, so plan early if you’re set on this experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter ride is perfect for adventurous travelers who want front-row views of Hawaii’s volcanic activity. If you’re comfortable flying and eager to see lava flows and volcanic landscapes from above, you’ll find this experience exhilarating. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate guided commentary and small-group environments.

On the other hand, travelers seeking a flawless, guaranteed view of active eruptions might want to weigh quality and weather considerations carefully. It’s a pricey option, so if your budget is tight or you prefer land-based or less expensive tours, there are other ways to explore Hawaii’s volcanic scenery.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour offers a rare glimpse into Hawaii’s fiery heart, with sweeping views of an active volcano and the raw beauty of one of Earth’s most dynamic landscapes. Its appeal lies in the aerial perspective — flying over rivers of lava, steaming vents, and lush forests provides a sense of connection to the planet’s natural forces that is hard to match from the ground.

While the experience can be awe-inspiring, it’s important to recognize the variability in visibility and the premium price tag. For those willing to invest and seeking a thrill, this tour can deliver unforgettable sights and a story to tell. Just remember, manage your expectations and consider weather conditions when planning your trip.

In essence, this helicopter ride is best for adventurous, nature-loving travelers eager for a unique perspective on Hawaii’s volcanic activity and willing to accept the uncertainties that come with such an experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with most age groups and physical conditions accommodated. However, if you weigh over 260 pounds, additional fees may apply, and safety restrictions could come into play.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers about 1 hour and 30 minutes of flight time, parking fees, a guide/driver, and a phone strap. It does not include meals or souvenirs.

Can I choose between doors off or on?
Yes, the tour offers both options. Doors off provides a more exhilarating experience, but jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are required.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour depends heavily on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
Guests weighing 260-279 lbs are charged a 50% seat fee after booking, and those over 280 lbs need to purchase an extra seat. These fees are not included in the base price.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made approximately 19 days in advance, so early planning is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

This helicopter tour of Kilauea offers a rare chance to see one of Earth’s most active volcanoes from a spectacular vantage point. Whether it becomes a highlight of your Hawaiian adventure depends on your expectations, budget, and love of adventure. It’s an experience that can inspire awe — or, at the very least, provide some incredible photos and stories to share.