Volcano National Park and Rainbow Fall in Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls in Hilo offer a captivating blend of natural wonders. Visitors can explore the awe-inspiring Kilauea Volcano, one of the world’s most active, and marvel at the Thurston Lava Tube. Nearby, the picturesque Rainbow Falls cascades over a lush cliff, often adorned with vibrant rainbows. These attractions showcase the island’s diverse landscapes and rich volcanic history. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking breathtaking vistas, this destination promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• This 6-7 hour tour offers a personalized experience to explore Volcano National Park and Rainbow Fall in Hilo, Hawaii, with pickup from various locations.
• The tour provides opportunities to witness the active Kilauea Volcano, walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, and learn about volcanic geology at the Jaggar Museum.
• Rainbow Fall, an 80-foot waterfall with a rainbow-forming mist, offers a serene contrast to the volcanic landscapes and is accompanied by a guide’s insights.
• The tour is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, and wheelchair access is not available.
• Past participants have generally provided high ratings, though some feedback indicates the tour may be overpriced compared to independent exploration.

Overview of the Tour

The tour of Volcano National Park and Rainbow Fall in Hilo, Hawaii, provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural wonders.

Lasting 6-7 hours, the tour includes transportation, lunch, and entry to the park. With a maximum of 24 travelers, the small-group experience ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.

Priced from $175 per person, the tour offers excellent value, with consistently high ratings from previous participants.

Pickup points at the Hilo Airport, port, and local hotels make the tour easily accessible.

Whether seeking scenic views or learning about Hawaii’s volcanic geology, this tour is an ideal way to discover Hilo’s natural beauty.

Meeting and Pickup Logistics

Where do travelers meet for this tour?

Pickup is available from three main locations – the Hilo Airport, the Port of Hilo, and Hilo Hotels. All pickups are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. The tour starts at 9:30 a.m.

The tour operates on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, with opening hours from 5/30/2024 to 3/1/2026.

Whether you’re arriving at the airport, cruise port, or staying in Hilo, the tour provides convenient transportation to kick off your day exploring Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls.

Pickup logistics are designed to ensure a seamless start to this Hawaii adventure.

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

After departing from the pickup locations, the tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park showcases the dynamic geology of the island, with opportunities to witness volcanic activity and witness the raw power of nature. Visitors can marvel at the diverse landscapes, including:

Attraction	Description
Kilauea Volcano	One of the world’s most active volcanoes, offering views of the ongoing eruptions.
Thurston Lava Tube	A remarkable underground lava tube formed by past volcanic flows.
Devastation Trail	A hiking path that traverses a landscape transformed by volcanic eruptions.
Jaggar Museum	An educational center highlighting the science and history of the region’s volcanoes.

Discovering Rainbow Fall

Next, the tour ventures to the lush Hilo region to witness the enchanting Rainbow Fall. Cascading 80 feet over a lush, fern-covered cliff, the waterfall is named for the rainbow that often forms in its mist on sunny days.

Visitors can admire the scenic beauty from an overlook platform, surrounded by verdant rainforest. The guide provides insights into the waterfall’s formation and the unique ecosystem.

Though less dramatic than the volcanic landscapes, Rainbow Fall offers a serene and picturesque contrast, allowing travelers to enjoy the island’s natural wonders.

Tour Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes an experienced guide, entry/admission to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and transportation to and from the pickup points in Hilo.

Gratuities and tips are also covered. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

There’s also a Reserve Now and Pay Later option available. Priced at $175 per person, the tour lasts 6-7 hours and can accommodate up to 24 travelers.

Reviews are positive, praising the knowledgeable guides and scenic views, though some felt the tour was overpriced compared to exploring the park independently.

Accessibility and Health Considerations

Though the tour is not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions may want to reconsider.

Accessibility Consideration	Notes
Wheelchair Access	Not available
Back Problems	Not recommended
Pregnancy	Not recommended
Serious Medical Conditions	Not recommended

Travelers should exercise caution and consult with their doctor if they have any concerns about their ability to participate. The terrain can be uneven, and the activity level is moderate, so participants should be prepared for walking and light hiking.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

Travelers have generally shared positive experiences with the Volcano National Park and Rainbow Fall tour. Many praised the friendly and knowledgeable guides, such as Ernie and Mike, for their hospitality and engagement.

Scenic views of the gardens, beaches, and waterfalls were widely appreciated. However, some felt the tour was overpriced and believed they could explore the park independently.

Issues with lunch options for larger groups and dietary restrictions were also noted. The tour seems to offer an enjoyable and informative experience for most visitors, though a few areas for improvement were highlighted in the feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food on the tour. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so bringing a packed meal is an option if you have dietary restrictions or preferences.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour includes a visit to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but it doesn’t provide dedicated time for souvenir shopping. Travelers can, however, purchase souvenirs at the park’s visitor center or local shops during free time.

How Long Is the Hiking Portion of the Tour?

The tour includes approximately 1-2 hours of hiking on well-maintained trails in the national park. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for moderate exertion during this portion of the excursion.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or gear. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The tour provides transportation and covers admission fees, so travelers can focus on experiencing the natural wonders.

Can I Extend My Stay and Explore the Area Further on My Own?

Yes, travelers can explore the area further on their own after the tour. The tour provides transportation and admission, but doesn’t limit visitors’ ability to extend their stay and discover more of the local attractions independently.

The Sum Up

Exploring the diverse landscapes of Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls in Hilo offers a captivating blend of natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring Kilauea Volcano to the serene cascades of Rainbow Falls, this tour showcases the island’s rich volcanic heritage and breathtaking scenery. Whether seeking geological marvels or tranquil natural beauty, visitors are sure to leave with lasting memories of this remarkable destination.