Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour: An Aerial Adventure over Big Island’s Volcanic Wonders

If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring above Hawaii’s fiery volcanoes, lush waterfalls, and rugged coastlines, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour might just be your ticket. For around $482.90 per person, you’ll spend approximately 50 minutes in the air with a small group of up to six travelers. It’s a chance to see Kilauea and Mauna Loa—two of the most active volcanoes in the world—at a height and in a way that’s simply not possible from land.

What we love most about this experience is how personalized it feels, thanks to the limited passenger count and the noise-canceling headphones that allow you to hear your pilot’s commentary clearly. Another highlight is the chance to see the island’s ever-changing volcanic landscapes and waterfalls that cascade down from the lush Hilo region.

A key consideration is the weather, as the tour is weather-dependent; if clouds or rain obscure the views, your flight might be canceled or rebooked. This is common with helicopter tours in Hawaii, but it’s worth noting if you’re aiming for specific vistas or eruptions.

This helicopter ride is well-suited for travelers who crave authentic adventure and spectacular vistas. It’s ideal for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, want to avoid crowded bus tours, or who simply want a bucket-list experience that’s both exhilarating and educational.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: Limited to six travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Expert Guides: Pilots are also certified Hawaii guides, offering insightful commentary.
• Unmatched Views: See volcanoes, waterfalls, craters, and coastline from the sky.
• Weather Dependence: Flight cancellations are possible if the weather is poor.
• Flexible Timing: Morning and afternoon departures available to fit your schedule.
• Value for the Price: Combines unique aerial views with expert narration for a memorable experience.

A Closer Look at the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Why It’s Worth Considering

This tour offers a rare bird’s-eye perspective of Hawaii’s volcanic activity. Imagine floating over Hawaiian waterfalls and watching the glowing lava flows (if eruptions are active during your flight). The 50-minute flight strikes a good balance; it’s long enough to see multiple sights but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring or overwhelming.

Two features really stand out. First, the small group size means you won’t be just another face in the crowd, and you’ll get more attention from your pilot, Chewy or Ryan, who are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly manner. Second, the audio commentary—delivered through Bose noise-canceling headsets—keeps you informed about what you’re seeing, making the experience both exciting and educational.

What to Expect on the Flight

Your journey begins at Hilo Airport, where you’ll check in about 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. This head start isn’t just bureaucratic; it’s essential for guest weight checks, safety briefings, and settling into your forward-facing Airbus Eco-Star helicopter seats that afford 180-degree panoramic views.

The flight heads over Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll see Kilauea and Mauna Loa—two giants of volcanic activity. Depending on conditions, you might spot Halemaumau Crater, the Hamakua Coast, and waterfalls tumbling down the mountainside. If eruptions are active, you’ll be able to witness the fiery glow of lava—an experience most travelers say is unlike anything from the ground.

The Stops and Sights

The tour’s itinerary is streamlined but packed with highlights. The first stop gives a birds-eye view of historic Hilo Town, a charming place that dates back to 1100 AD. Flying along the shoreline of the volcano area, you’ll see the constantly evolving landscape—the result of ongoing lava flows and volcanic activity. Some travelers have expressed that seeing the newly formed volcanic terrains from above is a truly unique experience.

Another notable aspect is the chance to view historic lava flows and fresh volcanic landscapes—a living record of the island’s fiery birth. One reviewer mentioned how their pilot was very knowledgeable about the volcanic features, offering detailed explanations that greatly enhanced the experience.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

The pilots aren’t just aviators—they’re certified Hawaii guides who deliver engaging commentary. Multiple reviews mention how Chewy and Ryan provided informative and friendly narration, making the flight both fun and insightful. We loved the way some reviews described the pilots as “kind and knowledgeable,” which adds to the feeling of a personalized tour rather than a generic ride.

Family-Friendly, Weather-Dependent, and Practical Info

Children under 23 months fly free, making it a good option for families. But it’s crucial to arrive early—check-in 45 minutes prior—to allow for safety checks. If you’re over 240 pounds, you’ll need to purchase an additional seat, which is half off the regular rate, to ensure safety and balance.

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in Hawaii’s mountainous terrain. If clouds or rain block views, your tour may be canceled with a full refund or rebooking offer—something quite common for this kind of experience. Travelers have noted that poor weather sometimes results in cancellations, but the staff are generally accommodating.

Price and Value

While $482.90 per person might seem steep, many reviewers say the quality of the experience justifies the cost. You’re paying for near-private access to Hawaii’s most active volcanoes, the expert guidance, and the breathtaking vistas that will stay with you long after the trip. Compared to land-based tours, this airborne perspective offers a uniqueness that can’t be matched.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter ride is best suited for adventurous travelers who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s perfect if you want to see volcanic activity from above, especially if eruptions are active during your visit. It also appeals to those who appreciate small-group settings and expert guides, ensuring a more intimate and informative experience.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the panoramic views and ability to communicate directly with your pilot** make it an excellent opportunity for capturing stunning images. Families with children over 23 months, or travelers who prioritize personalized attention and authentic guides, will find this tour particularly satisfying.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In essence, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour offers a rare opportunity to observe Hawaii’s volcanic activity and island scenery from a perspective that’s both spectacular and educational. It’s a well-organized experience with friendly guides and stunning views, making it a worthy splurge for those who want a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

While the cost is higher than some other tours, the personalized nature, expert commentary, and the chance to witness active volcanoes glow at night (if timing aligns) make it a valuable investment in your Hawaii trip.

If you’re looking to cross a major item off your Hawaii bucket list and enjoy a high-quality, authentic experience, this helicopter tour is likely to deliver more than you expect—and create memories you’ll cherish.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The helicopter flight lasts approximately 50 minutes, providing enough time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.

How many people are on each helicopter?
Passenger capacity is limited to 6 travelers, making for a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see Kilauea and Mauna Loa, waterfalls, Halemaumau Crater, the Hamakua Coast, and possibly lava flows if eruptions are active.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the flight requires good weather. Poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rebooking, but refunds are available if the tour is canceled.

Can children participate?
Yes, children 23 months and younger fly free as lap children. For safety, weight limits are in place for all passengers over 240 lbs.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing and sunscreen. Large cameras or selfie sticks are not allowed onboard. Photos and videos can be purchased after the flight.

Are headphones provided?
Yes, Bose noise-canceling headsets are included, allowing you to hear your guide clearly throughout the flight.

How do I confirm my booking?
Booking confirmation is received after reservation, and check-in is 45 minutes prior to your scheduled flight.

What if I want to rebook or cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are not refundable.

In the end, this helicopter tour offers a front-row seat to Hawaii’s most active and beautiful volcanic landscapes. It’s a great pick for those seeking a memorable, educational, and visually stunning experience—a true highlight of any Big Island visit.