Hilo is one of Hawaii’s most exciting spots for hiking and trekking, thanks to its lush rainforests, powerful waterfalls, and awe-inspiring volcanoes. If you love getting up close to nature and experiencing the raw power of the island, Hilo offers some excellent options. We’re especially fond of tours like the Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian for its combination of scenic beauty and cultural insight, and the Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls for its dramatic volcanic landscape. Whether you’re after a gentle walk or a full-day adventure, Hilo’s trails deliver.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover three top-rated hiking and trekking tours in Hilo. First, there’s the Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian, which combines stunning waterfalls with cultural stories. Next, the Kilauea Fissure 8 Tour takes you right to the heart of the 2018 volcanic eruption site. Finally, the Elite Volcano Hike offers a more challenging trek into Kilauea’s caldera. Each of these tours offers a unique way to experience Hilo’s incredible volcanic and natural scenery.
1. Hilo: Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian
At number one, this tour is perfect if you want a combination of waterfalls, local culture, and a refreshing swim. For around $150 per person, you spend about four hours exploring some of Hilo’s most famous waterfalls, including Waiānuenue, Pe’epe’e, and Waiale. The highlight is swimming in the cool waters of Waiale Falls, a lesser-visited treasure. The guide, a local with deep knowledge of Hilo’s history and traditions, shares stories that make the scenery come alive.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic Hawaiian culture alongside the natural beauty. The visit to Waiānuenue, the colorful “Rainbow Falls,” is a photo favorite, but the real treat is the chance to swim in Waiale’s secluded pools. The scenic drive through lush landscapes adds to the experience. This is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of light hiking, swimming, and storytelling. The reviews mention the “beautiful waterfalls” and the “friendly, knowledgeable guide” as major highlights.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and a chance to cool off in a hidden waterfall. It’s a great choice for those new to hiking or families seeking a fun outdoor day.
2. Hilo: Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls
At number two, this tour is for those who want to see the most dramatic volcanic activity and explore the 2018 eruption site. Priced at $240 per person for an eight-hour guided adventure, it takes you inside Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to see Fissure 8, the most powerful and iconic lava channel from the eruption. The local guide, who owns the land and has exclusive hiking access, makes this experience special.
The tour includes a scenic drive through coastal towns and plantations, giving you a well-rounded view of the island’s diverse landscapes. The highlight is standing at the edge of the lava field, watching the raw power of nature up close. The guide shares insights into the natural history and eruptions, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring. The highlight is the opportunity to witness Fissure 8’s flowing lava and the surrounding volcanic terrain.
Guests rave about the “breathtaking views” and the “insider access” that makes this tour different from other park visits. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want an intensive, up-close volcanic experience. Be prepared for a full day and some walking over uneven terrain.
Bottom Line: If witnessing active lava and learning about Hawai’i’s volcanic history appeals to you, this guided tour offers an unforgettable, intense adventure.
$240 per person
3. Hilo: Elite Volcano Hike
The third spot goes to the Elite Volcano Hike, which costs $275 per person for about 8.5 hours. This is the most challenging of the three, taking you down the 2-mile Halema’uma’u Trail into Kilauea Caldera. The guide focuses on delivering a more strenuous, immersive experience, and the route explores the aftermath of the 2018 eruption along Kilauea’s coastline.
What makes this hike stand out is the depth of access and the chance to walk on terrain shaped by recent volcanic activity. You’ll see the 2018 eruption site and walk along the coast where lava once met the sea. The tour includes a delicious lunch, allowing you to refuel after the rigorous hike. The guide’s extensive knowledge about Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park enriches the experience, providing context for what you see.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to explore areas typically off-limits to casual visitors. While it’s a longer, more intense tour, it’s ideal for hikers with some fitness who want a deeper understanding of Hawai’i’s volcanic landscape.
Bottom Line: For those looking for a serious hike and a detailed look at recent volcanic activity, the Elite Volcano Hike offers a rewarding, full-day experience.
How to Choose Your Hilo Hiking Adventure
When deciding between these tours, consider your fitness level, budget, and specific interests. If you’re after a family-friendly outing with waterfalls and cultural stories, the Waterfall Hike and Swim is ideal. For a day immersed in volcanic energy and active lava viewing, the Fissure 8 Tour is your best bet, especially if you’re comfortable with longer days and uneven terrain. If you want a more intense, in-depth hike into Kilauea’s caldera with a focus on recent eruptions, the Elite Volcano Hike delivers that experience.
Timing-wise, consider booking early in the year when conditions are dry and the volcano is active. Each tour offers a different perspective—some more cultural, others more geological—so think about what excites you most.
Hilo’s terrain and volcanic activity offer a remarkable variety of outdoor experiences. Whether you prefer a gentle waterfall walk, a guided volcano adventure, or a rigorous caldera trek, there’s a tour suited to your style. Be sure to reserve your spot early, especially for the popular Fissure 8 tour, and prepare for some of the most intense and authentic Hawaii adventures you can find.