Hilo: Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls

Traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii offers endless opportunities to witness some of Earth’s most dramatic natural phenomena. If you’re eager to see the 2018 eruption site and experience Hawaii’s volcanic landscape firsthand, the Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls tour by Aloha Aina Tours might just be your best bet. This full-day adventure combines the thrill of walking across lava fields, learning about Hawaiian culture, and spotting waterfalls—all wrapped into one guided experience.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic access—you won’t find a crowd here because the local guide owns the land and holds the only hiking rights. Plus, the well-rounded itinerary offers both the spectacular sights of Fissure 8 and the charm of historic Hilo. The only downside? At $240 per person, it’s an investment, but one that’s justified by the depth of experience and expert guidance.

This trip suits adventure-minded travelers, geology enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a meaningful way to connect with Hawaii’s volcanic legacy. Couples, families, and solo explorers will find plenty to love, especially those who appreciate detailed storytelling and a secure, well-organized day.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Only guided hike to Fissure 8 with the landowner.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Volcano exploration, scenic drives, waterfalls, and cultural sites.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides share insights with enthusiasm.
• Includes Food & Transportation: Hawaiian-style juices, snacks, and lunch included.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Multi-language Options: Tours available in English, Chinese, Japanese, and more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Once aboard, you’ll start with a comfortable ride through lush upland forests to the Kilauea Visitor Center. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse into the park’s compelling geology and cultural stories—an important context that helps you appreciate the volcanic wonderland you’re about to explore.

From there, the Volcano Explorer package takes you along the famous Chain of Craters Road and Crater Rim Drive. These drives showcase some of the most stunning scenery with plenty of stops for photos and short walks. Key highlights include:

• Halemaumau Crater at the Ukahuna Look Out, where you’ll likely see volcanic activity if conditions permit.
• The Steamy Sulphur Banks of Haakulamanu, which emit sulfur fumes and showcase the raw power beneath the surface.
• The Klauea Iki Overlook, offering a view into the crater’s eerie, cracked floor.
• The Thurston Lava Tube, a fascinating underground tunnel that reveals how lava flows have shaped the landscape.

You’ll love the way your guide explains the complex processes behind these sights, making the landscape come alive with stories. As one reviewer put it, “The stories the tour guide provided were great!”

Walking on Fissure 8 and the Lava Fields

The main event is hiking across the surreal, hardened lava fields where entire communities once thrived. The guide owns the land, which means access to Fissure 8 and Leilani Estates is exclusive and well-managed.

Here, you’ll get up close to the towering Fissure 8 cone, a remnant of the 2018 eruption that released lava for months. Walking across the hardened rivers of lava, you can imagine the fierce power that shaped this terrain. The terrain is uneven and loose gravel—so sturdy shoes are a must—but the views are spectacular and unlike anything else.

Travelers consistently mention how awe-inspiring it is to see the terrain that emerged from months of volcanic activity. Expect to be walking on almost otherworldly landscapes where entire neighborhoods once stood, providing a stark reminder of nature’s force.

Waterfalls and Historic Hilo

After the volcanic adventure, the tour shifts gears to showcase Hilo’s lush, island-side charm. The Hilo Discovery package includes stops at:

• Richardson Black Sand Beach, where volcanic black sand creates a striking contrast with the ocean.
• Reeds Bay Scenic Drive, offering views of the coast.
• The Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, a peaceful, Japanese-style garden perfect for a brief stroll.
• The Rainbow Falls, a picturesque waterfall that’s often framed with rainbows—hence the name.
• The King Kamehameha Statue and Naha Stone, important cultural landmarks.

These stops provide a gentle, scenic counterpoint to the volcanic landscape, highlighting the island’s diverse natural beauty and cultural depth. One guest remarked, “Getting to see Rainbow Falls and the historic sites added a real sense of place to the trip.”

Practical Details and What You Should Know

This tour is about 8 hours long, starting around 8:00 am, with pickup from various locations in Hilo and Kona (additional charges apply for Kona). The transportation is in a comfortable vehicle—important for a full day—and the guide is live in Chinese, English, and Japanese, which broadens the accessibility.

Food and drinks are included, with Hawaiian-style juices, water, grab-and-go snacks, and a choice of sandwiches for lunch. This thoughtful inclusion means you won’t have to worry about finding meals during the busy day.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended due to uneven terrain, especially during the lava walk.

Cancellation is flexible, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Booking now and paying later is an option, keeping your plans flexible.

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What We Thought: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The exclusivity of access to Fissure 8 makes this a rare opportunity.
• The depth of information from your local guide brings the landscape to life.
• The balance of active hiking, scenic drives, and cultural sites keeps the day interesting.
• Well-organized logistics with inclusive food and transportation add value.

Cons:

• The price point might be a barrier for budget travelers; however, the unique access and expert guidance justify the cost.
• The 8-hour duration requires a full day, which might be long for some, but is typical for comprehensive tours.
• The uneven terrain means those with mobility issues should be prepared.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re excited by volcano geology, lava landscapes, and Hawaiian culture, this tour offers an authentic and thorough experience. It’s ideal for adventure-seekers who want to walk on lava, nature lovers intrigued by waterfalls and lush scenery, and history buffs eager to connect with the island’s volcanic past. Families with kids comfortable on uneven ground will find it manageable, while those seeking a guided, educational day will particularly enjoy the insights shared by your local guide.

Final Thoughts

This tour genuinely offers a special window into Hawaii’s volcanic heart. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about understanding how the land has been shaped—and continues to evolve. The combination of guided storytelling, exclusive access, and scenic diversity makes it a standout choice for your Big Island adventure.

While the price might seem steep, the quality of the experience—especially the chance to see Fissure 8 up close—makes it worth considering. For travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, this trip is hard to beat.

If you’re after an immersive day with knowledgeable guides and stunning views that will leave you with stories to tell, this tour deserves your consideration. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for a day of awe-inspiring landscapes and fascinating geology.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides Hawaiian-style juices, water, grab-n-go snacks, and a choice of sandwiches for lunch, removing the need to find meals on your own.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience takes about 8 hours, starting around 8:00 am, allowing plenty of time for all the stops and hikes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, though some uneven surfaces and loose gravel may require assistance.

What languages are available during the tour?
Tour guides speak English, Chinese, Japanese, and Taiwanese, making this accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

Do I need special shoes?
Comfortable closed-toe shoes are recommended due to walking on lava and uneven terrain.

Whether you’re a geology nerd, a cultural explorer, or just someone eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic forces, this tour offers a detailed, engaging, and authentic way to experience the Big Island’s fiery landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: