Exploring the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes is a captivating adventure that combines the thrill of a helicopter tour with the discovery of iconic ground sites. This comprehensive 12-hour excursion from Waikiki whisks travelers on a 45-50 minute aerial journey over the island’s dramatic geological features before immersing them in a guided exploration of natural wonders like Richardson Black Sand Beach and Rainbow Falls. At $32,321 per person, the package offers a seamless experience that’s tailored for both first-time and seasoned visitors seeking to uncover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Hawaii’s largest island. What awaits those who embark on this extraordinary voyage?
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Waikiki.
Key Points
- A 12-hour excursion from Waikiki to the Big Island, including a 45-50 minute helicopter ride over volcanoes and waterfalls, and a guided ground tour of historic and natural sites.
- The tour costs $32,321 per person and includes hotel pickup, air tickets, and entrance fees, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The experience showcases the Big Island’s geological dynamism, with visits to Richardson Black Sand Beach, Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, and Rainbow Falls, among other highlights.
- The tour is suitable for a diverse range of travelers, with positive reviews highlighting the ability to deliver on promises and provide a comprehensive, hassle-free experience.
- The tour includes morning pickup from Waikiki hotels, a scenic 2-hour flight to the Big Island, and a dynamic guided ground tour complementing the aerial helicopter experience.
Tour Overview and Details
The Big Island Volcano Tour from Waikiki offers a comprehensive experience, providing a 12-hour excursion that includes a flight to the Big Island, a helicopter ride over waterfalls and volcanoes, and a guided ground tour of notable attractions.
Priced at $32,321 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air tickets, and entrance fees. Guests can enjoy a 45-50 minute helicopter ride, as well as a guided ground tour of locations like Richardson Black Sand Beach, Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, and Rainbow Falls.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, but offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option.
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Itinerary and Activities
The tour kicks off with an early morning pickup from Waikiki hotels, as guests are transported to the airport for their 6:00 am-8:00 am flight to the Big Island, with air tickets included. Upon arrival, participants embark on a helicopter ride lasting approximately 45-50 minutes, soaring over the island’s breathtaking waterfalls and volcanoes. The ground tour that follows is led by a dynamic guide, showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Visitors explore the Richardson Black Sand Beach, Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, King Kamehameha Statue, historic Hilo Town, and the captivating Rainbow Falls.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Pickup from Waikiki hotels | 5:00 am – 6:00 am |
| Flight to Big Island | 6:00 am – 8:00 am |
| Helicopter ride | 45-50 minutes |
| Ground tour with guide | Remainder of day |
Scenic Highlights
Guests can expect to experience the most geologically active environment on earth, with awe-inspiring views of lava flows, tropical rain forests, and cascading waterfalls throughout the tour.
The highlight of the scenic experience is the Richardson Black Sand Beach, the only black sand beach in the Hilo area.
Visitors will also explore the historic Banyan Drive, where they can see trees planted by famous individuals.
Another must-see is the Rainbow Falls, known for its beautiful rainbows that appear in the mist.
The tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and geological wonders of the Big Island, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour, air ticket, and all necessary entrance fees, providing a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for guests.
However, it’s important to note that food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included in the package price.
Plus, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the itinerary involves some walking and access to certain areas.
Guests can enjoy the stunning views of the Big Island’s volcanoes, rainforests, and waterfalls without having to worry about the logistics.
The tour offers a seamless way to explore the island’s natural wonders, making it an ideal choice for both first-time and seasoned travelers.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
Overall, reviewers have praised the Big Island Volcano Tour, awarding it a perfect 5/5 rating based on a single review.
Positive experiences have been reported by various traveler types, including couples, solo travelers, and families, highlighting the tour’s appeal across different demographics.
Reviewers have highlighted the tour’s ability to deliver on its promises, with many expressing their delight in witnessing the most geologically active environment on Earth.
The helicopter ride over waterfalls and volcanoes, as well as the guided ground tour, have been praised for providing a comprehensive and immersive experience.
Travelers have also appreciated the tour’s inclusions, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, air transportation, and entrance fees, making it a convenient and value-packed offering.
Pickup and Flights
The tour begins with a morning pickup from Waikiki hotels, departing between 5:00 am and 6:00 am to ensure an early start to the day’s activities.
After boarding the bus, travelers embark on a scenic flight to the Big Island, which takes approximately two hours. The air ticket for this flight is included in the tour price.
Once on the Big Island, the group is treated to a thrilling 45-50 minute helicopter ride over the island’s volcanic landscapes, providing breathtaking views of lava flows, tropical rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
This aerial adventure sets the stage for the ground tour, which explores the island’s natural wonders and cultural highlights.
Helicopter Experience
The helicopter ride provides travelers with a thrilling aerial perspective of the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes, offering breathtaking views of lava flows, tropical rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
Lasting approximately 45-50 minutes, the helicopter tour takes guests over some of the island’s most notable natural wonders.
Highlights include soaring above Richardson Black Sand Beach, the only black sand beach in the Hilo area, and witnessing the power of the island’s volcanoes.
The experience also offers glimpses of the historic Banyan Drive and the stunning Rainbow Falls.
This aerial adventure truly immerses travelers in the geological dynamism that defines the Big Island, providing an unforgettable perspective of its natural beauty.
Ground Tour Highlights
Alongside the thrilling helicopter ride, the ground tour portion of the Big Island Volcano Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and historic landmarks. Guided by a dynamic guide, the ground tour takes travelers to Richardson Black Sand Beach, Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, the King Kamehameha Statue, the charming town of Hilo, and the stunning Rainbow Falls.
| Landmark | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Richardson Black Sand Beach | The only black sand beach in the Hilo area |
| Queen Liliuokalani Gardens | Beautifully manicured Japanese gardens |
| King Kamehameha Statue | A monument honoring the founder of the Hawaiian Kingdom |
The ground tour provides an opportunity to take in the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Big Island, complementing the aerial perspective of the helicopter ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age restrictions. It is suitable for travelers of all ages, though it may not be appropriate for people with significant mobility impairments as the itinerary includes activities that require a moderate level of physical ability.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour price includes refreshments and meals, so bringing additional items is optional. Tour operators recommend checking the tour details for any specific guidelines or restrictions regarding outside food and beverages.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour’s itinerary is generally fixed, but some flexibility may exist to customize certain aspects based on customer preferences. Travelers should consult with the tour operator to discuss any specific requests or modifications to the standard itinerary.
How Many Passengers Can Fit in the Helicopter?
The helicopter can typically accommodate 4-6 passengers, depending on the specific model used. The exact passenger capacity may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the specific helicopter being used on the day of the tour.
What Is the Cancelation Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a flexible cancelation policy, allowing for free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides customers with the convenience to adjust their plans if needed.
Recap
The ‘From Waikiki: Big Island Volcano Helicopter and Ground Tour’ offers an unparalleled adventure, combining a thrilling aerial exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes with a guided ground tour showcasing the island’s natural wonders.
With its comprehensive inclusions, seamless logistics, and stunning sights, this excursion provides a truly immersive and hassle-free experience for both first-time and seasoned travelers seeking to fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Big Island.
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