Hilo Shore Excursion: Safari Lava Caves, Falls and Highlights

The Hilo Shore Excursion offers a captivating exploration of the Big Island’s natural wonders, blending geological marvels and dramatic landscapes. From the cascading Rainbow Falls to the otherworldly lava caves, this immersive tour promises an unforgettable adventure for visitors seeking to uncover the island’s hidden gems. Led by knowledgeable guides, the excursion delves into the impacts of Kilauea’s recent volcanic activity, providing a unique window into the dynamic forces that have shaped this remarkable destination. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the island’s geological history, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Big Island’s extraordinary natural beauty.

Key Points

• Immersive exploration of the Big Island’s natural wonders, including Nanawale Forest Reserve, Rainbow Falls, and Pohoiki geothermal pools.
• Safari-style adventure to witness the impacts of Kilauea’s recent lava flows.
• Guided tour with complimentary bottled water, souvenirs, and round-trip transportation.
• Opportunity to explore Kaumana Caves Park and Lava Tree State Park.
• Moderate terrain with walking over uneven ground and steep steps, not recommended for certain medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The Hilo Shore Excursion offers an immersive exploration of the Big Island’s natural wonders, including the Nanawale Forest Reserve, Rainbow Falls, and Pohoiki geothermal pools.

This 165-review tour, awarded a Badge of Excellence, takes visitors on a safari-style adventure to see the impacts of Kilauea’s recent lava flows on nearby towns.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from the Hilo port or hotel, a professional guide, bottled water, and souvenirs.

While the terrain can be moderate, with walking over uneven ground and steep steps, the tour operates in all weather conditions.

With a maximum of 14 travelers, this excursion provides a personalized and worry-free experience to discover the beauty and resilience of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Included in Tour

Among the inclusions of the Hilo Shore Excursion are port or hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide to lead the way, and bottled water to keep travelers hydrated throughout the journey.

Souvenirs and gratuities are also provided, while a stop is made by a local vendor for customers to purchase their own lunch.

The tour offers the following:

1. Pickup and drop-off from the Hilo port or hotel
2. A knowledgeable and experienced guide
3. Complimentary bottled water
4. Souvenirs and gratuities included

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants exploring the natural wonders of Hilo and the surrounding areas.

Tour Stops

Typically, the Hilo Shore Excursion takes visitors to a variety of fascinating destinations, including the picturesque Rainbow Falls, the intriguing Kaumana Caves Park, and the unique Lava Tree State Park.

At Rainbow Falls, guests can admire the cascading waters plunging over a 80-foot basalt cliff.

Next, the tour explores Kaumana Caves Park, where explorers can venture into a lava tube formed during Mauna Loa’s last eruption.

The journey then continues to Lava Tree State Park, where visitors can observe the remaining tree molds left behind by a 1790 lava flow.

These stops provide an engaging glimpse into the dynamic geology and natural wonders of the Big Island.

Tour Details

According to the details provided, this Hilo Shore Excursion is a moderate tour that involves walking over relatively uneven terrain, potentially including gravel, lava, steep steps, and other challenging surfaces.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, though a light rain jacket or poncho may be suggested.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Participants should be able to walk over uneven ground.

The lava tube portion of the tour involves steep steps and uneven ground, with optional participation.

Logistics

This Hilo Shore Excursion has certain logistical details travelers should keep in mind. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee is included. The exact departure time may vary depending on the cruise ship’s disembarkation time. This tour is not recommended for those who cannot walk over uneven ground or have poor health. The lava tube exploration involves steep steps and uneven ground, with optional participation.

Departure Logistics	Details
Confirmation	At time of booking
Shore Excursion Guarantee	Worry-free
Departure Time	Varies by cruise ship
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Lava Tube Exploration	Steep steps, uneven ground, optional participation

Visiting Rainbow Falls

One of the first stops on the Hilo Shore Excursion is Rainbow Falls, where visitors can admire the 80-foot waterfall cascading over a lush, verdant backdrop. The falls get their name from the rainbow-like mist that often forms in the sunlight.

Visitors can:

1. Enjoy panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding Wailuku River State Park.
2. Learn about the cultural significance of the falls from the knowledgeable guide.
3. Snap photos of the stunning natural scenery, including the tropical foliage and basalt rock formations.
4. Explore the nearby trails and lookout points for different perspectives of the cascading waters.

This picturesque natural wonder is a must-see on the Hilo shore excursion.

Exploring Kaumana Caves

Next, the tour explores the Kaumana Caves, a network of lava tubes formed centuries ago by the flow of molten rock.

Visitors venture into these subterranean passages, marveling at the intricate cave formations and the geological processes that created them.

The tour guide leads the group down steep stairs and along uneven ground, educating them on the unique features of this volcanic landscape.

Stalactites, stalagmites, and lava flows are highlighted, providing a glimpse into the dynamic forces that have shaped the Big Island over time.

Guests are encouraged to tread carefully and follow the guide’s instructions, as the lava tube environment can be challenging for those with mobility issues or health concerns.

Experiencing Lava Tree State Park

After exploring the Kaumana Caves, the tour group sets off to Lava Tree State Park, a unique natural wonder formed by an ancient volcanic eruption.

At the park, they discover a surreal landscape dotted with tree-shaped lava formations. These ‘lava trees’ were created when fast-moving lava encased the trunks of standing trees, preserving their shapes.

The tour group has the opportunity to:

1. Stroll along the park’s scenic trails and marvel at the otherworldly lava sculptures.
2. Observe the dense fern-filled forest that has reclaimed the area since the volcanic event.
3. Learn about the unique geological processes that formed this fascinating natural attraction.
4. Take photos to capture the park’s serene and captivating atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operates in natural environments that may be unsafe or unsuitable for animals. Participants must leave their pets at home to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Is the Tour Offered in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is offered in English only. There is no information provided indicating the tour is available in other languages. Customers who do not speak English may need to make arrangements for a translator to participate in the tour.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. However, it is not recommended for young children or those with mobility issues, as the terrain can be challenging with steep steps and uneven ground. Parental discretion is advised.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

This tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The regular tour price applies to all participants regardless of age or student status. The tour has a maximum group size of 14 travelers.

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Customers can typically customize the tour to visit additional sites, but this may incur an additional fee. The tour operator can provide more details on customization options and pricing when booking the excursion.

Recap

This immersive Big Island excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural wonders.

Visitors can discover the breathtaking Rainbow Falls, venture into the Kaumana Caves, and experience the fascinating Lava Tree State Park.

With a safari-style adventure to see the impacts of Kilauea’s recent lava flows, the tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the island’s geological marvels.