Exploring the dynamic volcanic landscapes of Hawaii’s Kilauea is a captivating experience that transports visitors to the heart of one of the most geologically active regions on Earth. The From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour offers a comprehensive nine-hour adventure, guiding participants through a meticulously curated itinerary that unveils the island’s natural wonders, from the historic Painted Church to the Keanakakoi Crater. Interspersed with a picnic lunch and a locally-sourced dinner, this tour promises a delightful fusion of exploration and gastronomy, leaving the participants with an unforgettable memory of their journey through Hawaii’s volcanic terrain.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Island Of Hawaii.
Key Points
- The nine-hour Kilauea Lava Flow Tour departs from Hilo and provides an opportunity to explore the volcano and recent lava flows.
- The tour includes visits to the Painted Church, Keanakakoi Crater, and a picnic lunch at Mackenzie State Recreation Area.
- The tour package covers all entrance fees, provides a picnic lunch and dinner, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Proper footwear and adherence to safety guidelines are required, as the tour schedule may vary based on weather and volcanic activity.
- The tour has an overall customer rating of 3.5 out of 5, with higher ratings for the tour guide and transportation.
Tour Overview
The Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner is a comprehensive nine-hour excursion that typically accommodates a limited group size of 13 participants.
Priced at $250.26 per person, this English-language tour allows visitors to explore the Kilauea volcano, including recent lava flows from 1881 and 2018.
The itinerary includes visits to the Painted Church in Kalapana, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Keanakakoi Crater. It also features a picnic lunch at Mackenzie State Recreation Area and a stop at a volcanic black sand beach.
The tour package includes all entrance fees, lunch, dinner, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made with a pay-later option.
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Itinerary Highlights
Typically, the tour begins with a hike across the Kilauea volcano, including exploration of recent lava flows from 1881 and 2018.
Visitors will then visit the Painted Church in Kalapana, a historic structure known for its vibrant interior murals.
The tour then moves on to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where guests can hike to the Keanakakoi Crater and witness the dramatic cracks and sinkholes formed by recent volcanic activity.
The excursion also includes a stop at the Mackenzie State Recreation Area, where participants can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the park’s lush pine trees.
Included in Tour
This comprehensive tour includes a full-day excursion, with all entrance fees, a picnic lunch, and dinner provided for participants.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are also included, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience throughout the day.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the Kilauea volcano, including recent lava flows, and visit the Painted Church in Kalapana.
The tour also includes a hike to the Keanakakoi Crater and a stop at a volcanic black sand beach.
With all these inclusions, the Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner offers a well-rounded and immersive experience for visitors to discover the natural wonders of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes.
Meeting Point
Participants for the Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner are required to meet at the local partner’s store by the lobby of the Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, located at 93 Banyan Drive, Hilo, HI 96720. This convenient meeting location allows for easy coordination and ensures a smooth start to the tour.
Meeting Point Details | |
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Location | Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo |
Address | 93 Banyan Drive, Hilo, HI 96720 |
Meeting Point | Local partner’s store by the lobby |
Attendees are advised to arrive at the designated meeting point a few minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a timely start to the day’s adventure exploring the Kilauea volcano.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Proper footwear is required for the tour, as you will be hiking across the Kilauea volcano, including recent lava flows. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for safety and traction on the uneven terrain.
Customers are advised to check the availability of starting times for the tour, as the schedule may vary depending on factors such as weather and volcanic activity. It’s essential to adhere to the tour’s guidelines and instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
While the overall customer rating for the tour is 3.5 out of 5, the guide and transportation aspects have received higher ratings, indicating a generally positive experience for participants.
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Customer Reviews
The Kilauea Lava Flow Tour has received mixed reviews from customers, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on 8 reviews.
While the tour guide received a high rating of 4.6 out of 5, the transportation and organization aspects were rated lower at 4.4 and 3 out of 5, respectively.
Several customers praised the tour’s itinerary and the opportunity to witness the stunning volcanic landscapes, but some expressed disappointment with the overall service and organization.
Despite the mixed feedback, the tour appears to offer a unique and immersive experience for those interested in exploring the Kilauea volcano and the natural wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Volcano Hike
Hiking across the rugged terrain of Kilauea volcano offers visitors a remarkable opportunity to witness the dynamic nature of this active geologic wonder firsthand. The tour guides participants on a journey through recent lava flows, providing a glimpse into the powerful forces that have shaped Hawaii’s landscape over time.
Along the way, hikers can explore:
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Newly formed cracks and sinkholes, offering a window into the volcano’s subsurface activity.
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Dramatic contrasts between the black lava and the surrounding lush vegetation.
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Unique geological formations and textures left behind by the slow cooling of molten rock.
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The sense of awe and reverence inspired by standing amidst the raw power of this primal natural process.
Lunch and Dinner
Participants on the Kilauea Lava Flow Tour enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic pine trees of Mackenzie State Recreation Area, followed by a locally-sourced dinner to cap off the day’s exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. The picnic lunch provides a chance to refuel and take in the surrounding natural beauty before continuing the tour. In the evening, the group savors a delicious dinner featuring fresh, island-inspired cuisine. This well-rounded dining experience complements the day’s adventures, allowing guests to fully enjoy the unique culinary and volcanic wonders of the Big Island.
Lunch | Dinner |
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Picnic in Mackenzie State Recreation Area | Local, island-inspired cuisine |
Fresh, seasonal ingredients | Opportunity to savor Hawaiian flavors |
Time to recharge amidst natural surroundings | Capstone to a day of volcanic exploration |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour includes a picnic lunch, so bringing your own food and drinks is not necessary. However, you may want to bring additional snacks or water if you have specific dietary requirements or preferences.
What Happens if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?
If the tour is cancelled due to weather, the tour operator will provide a full refund or the option to reschedule for another date. They have a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate any weather-related disruptions to ensure customer satisfaction.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
While the tour package details do not explicitly mention an option to extend the tour duration, it is recommended to inquire with the tour operator about the possibility and any associated fees. Tour durations are often fixed, but accommodation for flexibility may be available.
Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour?
Yes, you can request a private or customized tour. The tour operator may be able to accommodate your specific needs and preferences, subject to availability and additional fees. Contact them directly to discuss your options.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?
There are no specific age or fitness requirements for the tour, but participants should be able to hike several miles over uneven terrain. The tour involves moderate physical exertion, so visitors should have a reasonable level of fitness.
Recap
The From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour provides an immersive experience exploring Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes.
Participants can witness dynamic volcanic activity, enjoy a picnic lunch, and savor a locally-sourced dinner amidst breathtaking scenery.
This tour offers a blend of exploration and gastronomy, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Hawaii’s volcanic wonders.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Island Of Hawaii
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