The Island of Hawaii, often called the Big Island, is a natural wonderland filled with active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and dramatic black sand beaches. It’s one of the few places where you can witness molten lava flowing into the ocean, walk through ancient lava tubes, and learn about the island’s volcanic origins—all in one trip. For travelers eager to explore these fiery landscapes, the Big Island offers a variety of guided tours, each with its own unique appeal. I personally like the Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike because it combines both a strenuous hike and the chance to see Kilauea’s lava flows up close.
If you’re planning your adventure, this list covers the best National Park Tours on the Big Island, from shorter walks to full-day excursions. Whether you want a quick taste of volcanoes or an in-depth exploration, you’ll find options here that suit different interests and schedules.
1. Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
At number 1, the Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike offers a three-hour walk led by a certified interpretive guide. This tour is perfect if you want a focused, informative experience without committing an entire day. You’ll learn about volcanoes, geology, and native Hawaiian flora while walking through the native rainforests that thrive in this volcanic landscape. The highlight is watching the sunset over Kilauea and catching glimpses of lava glow from a lava lake—an unforgettable sight.
Guests have praised the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach, making complex volcanic processes easy to understand. The walk through lush rainforest contrasts sharply with the stark volcanic terrain, giving you a rounded understanding of the park’s diverse environment. This tour is best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who want a deep dive into the park’s volcanic activity without a full-day commitment. The cost is $120 per person, which offers good value considering the expert guide and intimate experience.
Bottom Line: A compact, well-led hike ideal for those who want to combine education with stunning sunset views and lava encounters.
2. Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
Coming in at number 2 is the Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike. This six-and-a-half-hour tour is perfect for those looking to enjoy the volcanic landscape. The trip takes you into the caldera of an active volcano, walking through Hawaiian forests, and reaching the famous Thurston Lava Tube.
The guide will point out native Hawaiian wildlife and explain the park’s ecology, making it a very educational outing. You’ll also enjoy a picnic lunch amid stunning scenery, which helps break up the day. The tour’s longer duration and small-group or private options appeal to travelers who want a more personal and detailed experience. The tour costs $230, which is reasonable given the depth of exploration and inclusions.
One reviewer notes that “the walk through the rainforest and lava tube was surreal,” emphasizing how this tour offers a hands-on understanding of the area’s volcanic processes. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with a full day on their feet, and it’s a good choice if you want a comprehensive, guided experience that covers more ground than shorter hikes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full-day, in-depth volcanic adventure with plenty of opportunities to learn and see lava.
3. Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa
Number 3 on the list is the Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa. This 12-hour guided trip covers a wide array of sights, making it perfect for travelers who want to see a lot in one day. Besides exploring Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, you’ll visit Bay View Farm, Kealakekua Bay, and the South Kona and Ka’u districts. A highlight is the hike at Mauna Ulu, where you can walk through a landscape shaped by past eruptions.
The tour also includes a visit to a working Kona Coffee Farm, giving insight into local agriculture, and plenty of scenic stops to appreciate the island’s diverse landscape. While the price is higher at $310, it includes transportation, multiple stops, and a knowledgeable guide to navigate the logistics and history of the island’s volcanic activity.
This tour suits travelers with a full day to spare who prefer a wide-ranging, well-organized itinerary. It’s especially good for those interested in combining natural wonders with cultural insights and a bit of local flavor.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, all-in-one Big Island experience, with multiple sights and activities packed into one day.
4. Hilo : Big Island Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour
Ranked at number 4 is the Hilo: Big Island Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour. This 10-hour tour is led by a top-rated guide who will introduce you to the most active volcano on Earth. You’ll walk through a lava tube, visit a nut factory, and enjoy breathtaking views, especially at the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum overlooking Kilauea’s crater.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of experiences. You’ll see the black volcanic sands of Richardson Beach and explore lush jungles contrasted with barren lava flows, offering a complete picture of the island’s volcanic diversity. The guide’s insights into the geology and ecology of the area make it educational and engaging. At $188, it offers a good balance of value and depth for a full-day adventure.
One reviewer commented that “seeing the lava and walking through the lava tube was an experience I’ll never forget,” highlighting how this tour delivers both natural spectacle and educational value. It’s suitable for active travelers who want a full day of exploration with some light walking and plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a well-rounded, active day exploring the volcanic and coastal landscapes around Hilo.
$188 per person
5. Volcanoes National Park Adventure
Topping off our list at number 5 is the Volcanoes National Park Adventure. This 11-hour guided tour covers the highlights of the park, including the famous Chain of Craters Road and the Kilauea Overlook. You’ll enjoy a comfortable sit-down lunch at the Volcano House, perched above the caldera with views of ongoing volcanic activity.
This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive look at the park’s most famous sights without the need for strenuous activity. The guide provides detailed commentary about the island’s geography and volcanic activity, making it both educational and visually impressive. The tour’s length and sightseeing stops make it a good value at $259, especially for travelers wanting a guided experience with logistical ease.
One thing to note is that this tour is perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and ask questions. It’s excellent for travelers who want a balance of comfort and adventure, with guaranteed highlights like the lava tube and black sand beaches.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for a relaxed, all-inclusive exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s must-see sights.
$188 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, physical fitness, and time constraints. If you prefer a quick yet insightful experience, the Kilauea Guided Hike offers a focused, affordable option. For a more comprehensive adventure, the Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa covers multiple highlights in one day. If you want a full immersion into volcanic landscapes with plenty of sightseeing and some cultural exposure, the Hilo Adventure Tour is ideal.
Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date. Also, consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking on uneven terrain or over lava fields, so choose accordingly. For a scenic, laid-back experience, the Volcanoes National Park Adventure provides a relaxed pace with excellent views.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island offers a stunning array of guided tours that cater to every kind of traveler—whether you’re after an intimate hike, a full-day exploration, or a relaxed sightseeing day. For quick insights into volcanoes, the Kilauea Guided Hike is a fantastic choice. If you want to see as much as possible in one day, the Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa is hard to beat.
For genuine volcanic landscapes combined with cultural insights, the Hilo Adventure or the Volcanoes National Park Adventure are excellent picks. No matter your choice, booking early and preparing for active days will ensure you get the most out of your volcanic adventure on Hawaii’s Big Island.