The Maui to Big Island: Big Island Volcano Helicopter & Bus Tour promises an unforgettable experience for adventure-seekers. Combining a breathtaking aerial journey over Kilauea Iki Crater and Chain of Craters Road with an immersive ground exploration of Volcanoes National Park, this 11-hour tour offers a unique perspective on Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. From stunning aerial vistas to up-close encounters with active volcanoes, the tour’s limited capacity ensures an intimate and informative experience led by knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a thrilling day of discovery, this tour might just be the highlight of your Hawaiian adventure.
Key Points
- This 11-hour tour departs from Maui and includes a helicopter ride over the Big Island’s active volcanic landscapes, followed by a ground tour of Volcanoes National Park.
- The helicopter tour offers a 45-50 minute aerial perspective, allowing participants to observe Kilauea Iki Crater and the Chain of Craters Road.
- The ground tour of Volcanoes National Park provides an immersive experience, including insights into Hawaiian history and culture from a live guide.
- The tour package includes round-trip air tickets from Maui to the Big Island, as well as admission to Volcanoes National Park.
- Participants must check-in 90 minutes prior to the flight departure and meet the tour guide at the Hilo bus pickup area for a smooth transition between the air and ground components.
Tour Overview
The Big Island Volcano Tour is an 11-hour activity that departs from Maui and takes participants on a helicopter tour of the Big Island’s geologically active areas, followed by a ground tour of Volcanoes National Park.
Priced from $1,300 per person, the tour has a group size limited to 15 participants and is conducted entirely in English.
While the tour is non-refundable, it provides an immersive experience, including a 45-50 minute helicopter ride showcasing sights like Kilauea Iki Crater and the Chain of Craters Road.
The ground tour then allows visitors to explore the park and learn about Hawaiian history and culture from a live guide, culminating in the opportunity to observe the world’s most active volcano.
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Experience Highlights
From sweeping aerial vistas of the Big Island’s geologically active areas to an up-close exploration of Volcanoes National Park, this tour provides an immersive experience that showcases the raw power and mesmerizing beauty of Hawaii’s volcanic landscape.
During the helicopter tour, you’ll soar over Kilauea Iki Crater and the Chain of Craters Road, offering a bird’s-eye view of the most active volcano in the world.
On the ground, you’ll venture into Volcanoes National Park to witness the Kilauea Craters and observe the dramatic volcanic steam vents.
Throughout the experience, a knowledgeable guide will share insights into the island’s rich history and culture, enriching your understanding of this remarkable natural wonder.
Tour Details
This tour includes a round-trip air ticket from Maui to the Big Island, allowing participants to experience both aerial and ground perspectives of the island’s volcanic landscapes. The helicopter tour spans 45-50 minutes, offering sweeping views of geologically active areas, including Kilauea Iki Crater and the Chain of Craters Road. On the ground, the tour guides visitors through Volcanoes National Park, providing admission and the opportunity to witness the Kilauea Craters and dramatic volcanic steam vents. Lunch is not included, but the guide will make a stop for participants to purchase their own meal.
Tour Details |
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Round-trip air ticket from Maui to Big Island |
Helicopter tour (45-50 minutes) |
Ground tour of Volcanoes National Park |
Admission to Volcanoes National Park |
Itinerary
Participants start their Big Island adventure by flying from Maui to the island of Hawaii, with airfare included in the tour package.
Upon arrival in Hilo, they’ll meet up with the tour guide at the bus pickup area near baggage claim D.
From there, they’ll embark on a helicopter tour, soaring over the island’s volcanic landscapes.
After the aerial exploration, the group will then head to Volcanoes National Park for a ground tour, where they’ll witness the active Kilauea Craters and volcanic steam vents.
At the end of the day, you will catch their return flight back to Maui, concluding this immersive Big Island volcano tour experience.
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Travelers typically check in 90 minutes prior to the flight’s scheduled departure to obtain their return boarding pass at the check-in counter.
Upon arrival in Hilo, the group will meet the tour guide at the bus pickup area near baggage claim D. From there, the group will depart Hilo for Volcanoes National Park to begin the ground tour portion of the excursion.
At the end of the tour, the group will catch their return flight back to Maui. Providing ample time for check-in ensures a smooth transition between the air and ground components of the tour, allowing participants to focus on the incredible volcanic landscapes they’ll witness throughout the day.
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Round-trip Air Ticket
The round-trip air ticket from Maui to the Big Island is included as part of this comprehensive tour package. This ensures a seamless experience for participants, with no additional hassle or cost associated with getting to the tour starting point.
The flight typically takes around 30 minutes each way, providing breathtaking aerial views of the volcanic landscapes below. Upon arrival in Hilo, the tour guide will be waiting to greet the group and escort them to the next phase of the adventure – the ground tour of Volcanoes National Park.
This all-inclusive approach simplifies the logistics, allowing participants to focus on the incredible sights and experiences that await them on the Big Island.
Helicopter Tour
The helicopter tour offers an unparalleled aerial perspective of the Big Island’s geologically active regions, providing participants with a unique vantage point to witness the raw power and breathtaking beauty of this volcanic landscape.
During the 45-50 minute flight, guests will soar over Kilauea Iki Crater and the Chain of Craters Road, gaining a deeper appreciation for the island’s dynamic, ever-changing terrain.
The tour also showcases the most active volcano in the world, offering a rare opportunity to observe firsthand the incredible forces that shape the Hawaiian Islands.
This truly awe-inspiring experience is a highlight of the overall tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the majesty of the Big Island’s volcanic wonders.
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The helicopter tour provides an unparalleled aerial perspective of the Big Island’s geologically active regions.
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Guests will witness the raw power and breathtaking beauty of the volcanic landscape during the 45-50 minute flight.
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The tour offers a rare opportunity to observe the most active volcano in the world, gaining a deeper appreciation for the island’s dynamic, ever-changing terrain.
Ground Tour of Volcanoes National Park
Following the captivating aerial exploration, the ground tour of Volcanoes National Park provides visitors with an immersive experience to further appreciate the dynamic nature of the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes.
Guided by knowledgeable local experts, the tour takes guests on a journey through the park’s renowned Kilauea Crater and Volcanic Steam Vents, offering a rare opportunity to witness the raw power of an active volcano up close.
Participants will learn about the park’s intricate geological history and the cultural significance of these natural wonders to the native Hawaiian people.
This comprehensive ground tour completes the overall volcanic experience, leaving visitors with a profound understanding and appreciation of the Big Island’s remarkable volcanic ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours. However, the tour operator’s policy should be checked, as some may have restrictions or provide lunch as part of the experience.
Are There Any Special Requirements for the Helicopter Ride?
For the helicopter ride, passengers must adhere to weight and size restrictions. They cannot bring large bags or carry-on items, and may need to sign waivers or provide health information prior to the flight.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Ground Tour?
The ground tour involves moderate walking. Visitors can expect to walk up to 2 miles throughout the Volcanoes National Park, exploring sites like the Kilauea Craters and Volcanic Steam Vents. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Can I Extend My Stay on the Big Island After the Tour?
Yes, visitors can extend their stay on the Big Island after the tour. However, the tour package only includes round-trip air transportation from Maui to the Big Island and ground transportation during the tour. Any additional accommodations or activities must be arranged separately by the visitor.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate in the Tour?
There is typically no minimum age requirement for this type of tour, though children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour operator may have age guidelines or restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
Recap
The Maui to Big Island Volcano Helicopter & Bus Tour offers a unique and thrilling experience for travelers.
From breathtaking aerial views of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes to an immersive ground tour of Volcanoes National Park, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to witness the power of active volcanoes.
With a live guide and a small group size, it’s a comprehensive and authoritative way to explore the wonders of Hawaii’s volcanic terrain.
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