The Island of Hawaii is a hiker’s paradise. With dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, lush rainforests, and native wildlife, it offers a variety of outdoor experiences that can satisfy every level of adventurer. We especially love the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll see lava lakes and walk through native rainforests, and the Hakalau Forest, a haven for bird lovers. Whether you’re after a short sunset walk or a full-day expedition into active volcano craters, Hawaii’s terrain makes every trek memorable.
If you’re trying to decide which tour fits your style, rest assured that this list covers a range of options—guided hikes in volcanic calderas, private explorations of lava tubes, and wildlife-focused excursions, all designed to showcase the island’s volcanic and ecological wonders. For a quick overview, check our Hiking and Trekking Tour list, where you’ll find options from 3-hour walks to 12-hour wildlife safaris.
1. Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
On the number one spot, this guided hike in Volcanoes National Park offers an immersive experience into one of the island’s most iconic landscapes. For just $120 per person, you’ll spend about 3 hours walking through native Hawaiian rainforests, learning about the geology, botany, and history of this extraordinary park. Your certified interpretive guide is well-versed in the volcano’s story, making the experience both educational and engaging.
Key highlights include watching the sunset over a volcano—an unforgettable sight—and witnessing the glow of a lava lake. The hike also includes walking through lush rainforests rich in native flora and fauna, offering a chance to see the island’s vibrant ecosystem up close. While this tour is shorter, it’s ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful volcano experience. Many guests comment on how the guide’s storytelling made the landscape come alive, and the sunset views are often described as breathtaking.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an excellent introduction to Hawaii’s volcanic landscape, perfect if you want a focused, informative experience with stunning natural sights in a shorter time.
2. Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
For those seeking a deeper dive into Hawaii’s volcanic core, the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike is a standout. Priced at $230 and lasting 6.5 hours, this tour takes you into the active caldera, where you can explore Hawaiian forests, walk across the Kilauea Iki Crater, and visit the famous Thurston Lava Tube. It’s a comprehensive hike that appeals to nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike.
What makes this tour unique is the opportunity to walk through a volcanic landscape still shaped by recent eruptions. Your guide, who shares 25 years of birding experience, will point out native Hawaiian wildlife and discuss the park’s ecological recovery post-eruption. The lava tube offers an otherworldly experience—an underground maze carved by ancient lava flows. The day includes a picnic lunch, adding a nice break amid the adventure. Many guests appreciate the group dynamic and detailed explanations that bring the landscape to life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full-day, immersive volcano experience with expert insights, and plenty of chances to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity firsthand.
3. Big Island: Off the Beaten Path Volcano Crater Hike
If you’re looking for something less crowded and more exclusive, the Off the Beaten Path Volcano Crater Hike is perfect. For $194, this 5-hour adventure takes you onto private land to explore the upper slopes of Hualalai, a less-visited volcano. Hike through untouched cloud forests, stand on the edge of eruptive craters, and scramble through a lava tube segment if you choose.
What makes this tour stand out is the private access that allows you to venture into areas typically off-limits to the general public. The 3-4 miles you hike cover diverse terrains—volcanic fissures, native forests, and crater rims—making it a varied and engaging trek. Visitors often mention how rare it is to experience such pristine landscapes without crowds. Optional lava tube climbing adds an adventurous touch for those comfortable with a bit of scrambling.
Bottom Line: Great for seasoned hikers or those craving a more exclusive experience, especially if you want to see Hawaii’s volcanic landscape in a more secluded setting.
4. Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour
Bird lovers will find this Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour compelling. At $288 for a 12-hour day, it’s a full immersion into Hawaii’s rich avian life. You’ll ride in a comfortable 4WD into the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, one of the best spots to see native and endangered birds, including the Amakihi, Apapane, and Elepaio.
The tour is as much about wildlife education as hiking. You’ll discover rare plants and even some carnivorous caterpillars, learning about the island’s fragile ecosystems from your expert bird tracking guide. The day includes a packed lunch and plenty of time for slow, deliberate walks, making it perfect for birders and nature enthusiasts who don’t mind a long day outdoors.
Guests noted that spotting the native birds made the trip memorable, and the guide’s knowledge about Hawaii’s ecological challenges added depth to the outing. Because it covers native flora and fauna, it’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine hiking with engagement in conservation.
Bottom Line: Best for dedicated birders or those interested in native Hawaiian wildlife and plants, offering a full-day of wildlife immersion.
5. Waikoloa/Kohala: Elite Volcano Hike
Finally, the Elite Volcano Hike is the most extensive and demanding option, covering 12 hours and costing $310. Starting with a walk down the 2-mile Halema’uma’u Trail into the Kilauea Caldera, this tour explores the aftermath of recent eruptions. It also includes a visit to Kaumana Caves and a walk through the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
This tour is perfect for serious hikers who want to experience Hawaii’s volcanic activity in depth. The hike over 12 hours includes visiting erupted sites from 2018 and walking across volcanic landscapes that few visitors see. It’s an all-day commitment but offers the most comprehensive volcanic experience on the island.
Reviewers note that this tour is intense but rewarding, ideal for those with good fitness levels who want a deep, physical exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic history. It’s best booked well in advance given the length and popularity.
Bottom Line: For avid hikers eager to explore Hawaii’s volcanic aftermath in depth, this tour delivers a complete, challenging experience.
$310 per person
How to Choose the Right Hiking Tour in Hawaii
When selecting your perfect hike, consider your fitness level, interests, and time constraints. If you want a quick overview with stunning sunset views, the Kilauea Guided Hike is a great choice. For a full-day adventure with in-depth ecological insights, opt for the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike. Those seeking a quieter, more exclusive experience will appreciate the Off the Beaten Path Volcano Crater Hike, while wildlife enthusiasts will find the Bird Watching & Hiking Tour rewarding.
Budget and time also matter. Shorter tours are perfect for a quick taste, while longer, more demanding hikes suit fit travelers craving a physical challenge. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours and those during peak seasons.
Hawaii offers a wide spectrum of hiking adventures, from quick sunset walks to full-day volcanology expeditions and wildlife safaris. If you’re short on time, the Kilauea Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike provides a taste of the island’s fiery heart. For a more comprehensive experience, the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike is hard to beat. Meanwhile, those craving solitude and exclusivity will enjoy the Off the Beaten Path Volcano Crater Hike.
No matter your choice, Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes promise unforgettable views and experiences. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore one of the most geologically exciting places on Earth.