Kilauea Volcano Eruption – 105 Min Heli Tour-Doors Off or On

Thinking about adding a helicopter tour of Hawaii’s famous Kilauea Volcano to your Big Island itinerary? While this particular experience comes with mixed reviews, it remains an adventure that promises incredible visuals of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Whether you’re fascinated by volcanic landscapes or eager for a unique aerial perspective, this tour might be worth considering—especially for those who love dramatic scenery and don’t mind splurging a bit.

What we find particularly appealing are the stunning views of lava flows meeting the ocean and the chance to see lush forests contrast sharply with black lava fields. Plus, the doors-off option offers an adrenaline rush for those longing for an open-air experience. That said, potential travelers should keep in mind the price point—over $1,000 per person—and the importance of realistic expectations about the tour’s promises.

This helicopter flight is best suited for travelers who crave a visual spectacle and are comfortable with the idea of flying over an active volcano. If you’re a bit skeptical about tour claims or concerned about the cost-to-value ratio, you might want to weigh your options carefully. Overall, it’s an adventure that could become a highlight of your trip—if the reviews align with your expectations.

Key Points

• Breathtaking aerial views of Kilauea’s lava flows and lush surroundings.
• Doors-off option offers a more immersive experience, with some safety considerations.
• Pricey at $1,080, but potentially memorable for volcanic enthusiasts.
• Limited passenger safety info suggests a need for careful planning around weight and group size.
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations.
• Weather dependence can impact the experience, with cancellations possible.

An Honest Look at the Helicopter Tour of Kilauea Volcano

When considering a helicopter tour over Hawaii’s active Kilauea Volcano, it’s essential to understand what’s on offer—and what you should realistically expect. This tour, offered by Rainbow Helicopters, promises a 105-minute flight with options for doors on or off, providing a rare chance to see molten lava, blackened landscapes, and verdant forests from the sky.

The Flight Itself: What Makes It Special

The core appeal of this tour is the opportunity to soar over the volcano and witness the power of nature firsthand. Formed hundreds of thousands of years ago as the Pacific Plate moved over the hot spot, Kilauea is the youngest and most active volcano on the island. From the altitude of 4,091 feet, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of rivers of lava flowing into the ocean, sending up plumes of steam and creating dramatic scenery.

The flight time of 1.5 hours means you get a significant window to observe these sights, and the inclusion of group discounts and a mobile ticket makes it convenient to plan. The tour’s official itinerary emphasizes soaring over the volcano’s fiery landscape, with the chance to see the lava meeting the sea—a spectacle that’s both fierce and beautiful.

Doors Off or On: A Choice for the Adventurous

One of the main features of this tour is the doors-off version, which promises a more immersive experience. For thrill-seekers, this offers an open-air perspective, allowing you to feel the wind and see the landscape from a more visceral point of view. However, it’s important to note that your seat may or may not be directly next to an open door, and safety regulations require jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties for doors-off flights.

Some reviews indicate that this option enhances the feeling of being in the landscape, but it also means a higher level of exposure and some safety considerations. For those unsure or sensitive, the doors-on experience still provides stunning visuals in a more enclosed setting.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Feel

The main highlight of this tour is the flight over the active Kilauea Volcano. You’ll be treated to views of black lava fields, crimson rivers of molten rock, and the lush green forests that surround the volcano. The flight’s route is designed to maximize exposure to the volcano’s most dramatic features, especially the flowing lava meeting the ocean—a sight that captures the raw energy of Earth’s geology.

The tour does not specify multiple stops, but the aerial perspective offers a unique vantage point that ground-based tours cannot match. Flying above these volcanic features allows you to appreciate the scale and intensity of the landscape, which is often hidden from view on land.

What Travelers Should Know Before Booking

The Price and Its Value

At $1,080 per person, this tour is a significant investment. When we analyze the value, it’s clear that the visual spectacle and the chance to see Kilauea’s eruptions from above are what justify the price for many. However, reviews suggest some travelers felt they were misled or had expectations that weren’t fully met, citing the discrepancy between what was promised and what was delivered.

Given the high cost, it’s wise for potential bookers to have realistic expectations—this is an aerial tour with spectacular views but not a guarantee of close-up volcanic activity. The weather dependence also means cancellations are possible, which could impact the overall value if your trip is tight on time.

Safety and Passenger Restrictions

Safety policies specify that most travelers can participate, but there are weight considerations. For passengers weighing 260 pounds or more, a weight and balance fee applies—50% of the seat price for 260-279 lbs, and an entire extra seat for 280 lbs or more. All passengers aged 24 months and older need to buy a full seat, emphasizing the need for accurate weight reporting.

The operator reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated passengers, underlining the importance of a sober mind when flying over such a volatile landscape. For the doors-off experience, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are required.

Group Size and Experience

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour feels intimate enough for everyone to get good views, though the actual experience can vary depending on the pilot’s skill, weather conditions, and your seating position. The inclusion of group discounts suggests some flexibility for larger parties.

Authentic Experiences and Realities

While the tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime view of Kilauea’s eruptions, reviews point out that some travelers felt the experience was less than expected. One reviewer bluntly stated, “We were lied to plain and simple,” referencing a disconnect between promotional descriptions and the actual experience. This underscores the importance of managing expectations.

Conversely, others emphasize the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides—though the reviews don’t specify the guide’s level of expertise, it’s clear that the views alone can make for a memorable experience. The flight over lava rivers, meeting the ocean, and the contrast of vibrant greens with black lava are genuinely spectacular.

The weather plays a key role—poor conditions can lead to cancellations, and the tour operator’s refund policy is clear: full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, but no refunds if canceled less than that. So, planning around weather is crucial.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone eager to witness Hawai’i’s volcanic activity from the air, enjoy stunning natural scenery, and don’t mind the price, this helicopter tour could add a wow factor to your Big Island adventure. It’s especially appealing if you’re comfortable with helicopter flights and seeking a more immersive experience through the doors-off option.

However, if you’re budget-conscious, or if your main goal is to get up close and personal with the volcano on land, you might find other options more cost-effective or satisfying. Also, if weather is uncertain during your visit, be prepared for potential cancellations or disappointment.

The Sum Up

This helicopter tour of Kilauea Volcano offers a unique vantage point of one of the world’s most active and captivating volcanic landscapes. The views of lava flows, steaming ocean meeting, and lush greenery are hard to match from the ground. For those seeking an adrenaline rush and picture-perfect scenery, especially with the doors off, this experience can deliver memories that last.

However, the price point and mixed reviews about the tour’s promises mean travelers should approach with realistic expectations. It’s best suited for adventurous spirits willing to spend a bit more for the extraordinary, who value spectacular vistas over simplicity of experience.

Overall, for those who love geological wonders and are comfortable with the logistical considerations (weight restrictions, weather dependence), this helicopter tour is a potent highlight of a Big Island trip—if it lives up to your hopes.

FAQ

Is this helicopter tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but weight restrictions apply. Passengers over 260 pounds may need to pay additional fees, and all passengers 24 months or older require a full fare seat.

How long does the tour last?
The flight itself lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to see the volcano and surroundings from the air.

Can I choose between doors on or off?
Yes, the tour offers options for doors off or on, with the doors-off providing a more immersive experience but with additional safety considerations.

What should I wear?
For doors-off flights, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are required. It’s also wise to bring a jacket or sweatshirt in case it gets windy.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What are the main sights I will see?
You’ll fly over black lava fields, lava rivers meeting the ocean, and the surrounding lush forests, with spectacular views of the volcanic activity.

Is the tour worth the price?
That depends on your expectations. While the scenery is undeniably impressive, some reviews mention feeling misled about what the experience offers. If you value spectacular aerial views of volcanoes, it could be worth it; if you’re more budget-conscious, consider alternative options.

This helicopter tour of Kilauea offers an extraordinary perspective on one of Hawaii’s most famous natural features. Approach it with clear expectations, a sense of adventure, and an appreciation for the Earth’s fiery power—you may find it a highlight of your Big Island journey.