Big Island – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii and want to experience the famous Volcanoes National Park without the constraints of a group tour, this self-guided driving experience is worth considering. Priced at just $19.99 per group, it offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace over two days, with up to 15 people in your vehicle. The tour includes turn-by-turn GPS directions, offline maps, and a virtual guide that provides stories, history, and local music—perfect for travelers who prefer a more personal and relaxed approach.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines convenient technology with the freedom to linger at favorite spots, plus the depth of information packed into the narrated audio. It’s a smart way to turn your car into a mobile storytelling device, making sure you don’t miss out on key highlights. Also, the value for money is impressive—lifetime access to the audio content means you can revisit the tour anytime, even after your trip.

One potential consideration is that some users have reported issues with app navigation or connectivity, especially if technical hiccups occur. It’s a good idea to download everything beforehand and ensure your device is charged.

This tour suits travelers who want a personalized experience—those who enjoy learning about Hawaiian legends, scenery, and geology at their own pace, without the pressure of a group or guided bus. If you’re comfortable with smartphones and appreciate flexibility, it’s a smart way to make the most of your visit to the volcanoes.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: A great way to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on your own schedule.
• Rich audio content: Includes stories, music, and tips, all accessible offline.
• User-friendly: Turn-by-turn GPS and offline maps mean you won’t get lost or need Wi-Fi.
• All about customization: You can start, pause, and skip stops at your own pace.
• Potential technical issues: Some reviews mention app glitches—download everything beforehand.
• Ideal for self-sufficient travelers: Perfect for those who enjoy learning and exploring independently.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a highlight for many travelers to the Big Island, and with this self-guided tour, you get to experience it on your terms. From the moment you start, the app provides a streamlined, GPS-activated narration that automatically plays as you drive. This means you can focus on the spectacular scenery without constantly checking your phone or map—though the offline maps do give you a safety net if cell service is spotty.

Day 1: The Heart of the Volcanoes

You begin at the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center, which is your gateway to understanding the landscape’s formation and Hawaiian myths. While the app’s narration is not included at this initial point (they note it’s free), it sets the stage for the incredible sights ahead.

Next up is the Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku), one of the park’s most popular stops. Here, you step into a natural tunnel formed from flowing lava, a visual reminder of the power of volcanoes. According to one reviewer, “take the first parking spot you see” for easier access—this small tip can save you time and hassle.

The Kilauea Iki Trail offers a walk across the crater floor where you can feel the volcano’s pulse. Expect a short but immersive hike, with some reviews warning that it can get hot—so bring water and sturdy shoes. The narration here enriches the experience with stories about the crater’s history, making the walk more meaningful.

Driving along the Chain of Craters Road is a highlight, with stunning views of lava flows and ocean vistas. It’s a perfect place to pause, take photos, and breathe in the volcanic landscape. The app suggests good spots for breaks and even points out Holei Sea Arch, a dramatic 90-foot-tall formation that’s about 500 years old—a spectacle that’s sure to make your jaw drop.

The Devastation Trail provides a stark reminder of nature’s fury, showing how lava has reshaped the landscape and created new mountains. A reviewer mentioned it as an “excellent example of how mother nature forms new mountains,” emphasizing the raw power of volcanic activity.

Finally, the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs reveal around 23,000 carvings made centuries ago, offering a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life and spirituality. The short walk is easy, but a tip from a reviewer: “bring water,” as it’s a hot hike.

The day wraps up at the Holei Sea Arch, where you can marvel at the natural bridge carved from lava. It’s a scenic, memorable end to a full day of exploration.

Day 2: Repeating the Magic

The second day allows you to revisit the park, soaking in details you might have missed or want to explore further. The narration is available again, and many travelers find this reinforces what they learned and enhances their appreciation of the landscape. It’s especially great if you prefer a more in-depth experience or want to take your time.

Practical Insights for Visitors

This tour’s main advantage is flexibility. You choose when to stop, how long to linger, and which sights to prioritize. The offline maps eliminate worries about Wi-Fi, particularly in remote areas of the park, and the audio narration adds a layer of storytelling that can make your visit more engaging and educational.

However, some users have faced issues. A few reviews mention that the app “never kept up with the driving” or that they had to log back in repeatedly. To minimize frustration, it’s recommended to download the tour and maps before entering the park, ensure your device is fully charged, and perhaps have a backup plan if technology fails.

The cost of $19.99 is a notable value given the wealth of information, audio entertainment, and the ability to explore at your own pace. For comparison, guided tours often cost significantly more and can feel rushed; this app allows you to craft your own itinerary without sacrificing informative content.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is best for independent travelers comfortable with technology who want to learn about Hawaii’s volcanoes without a guide breathing down their neck. It’s also ideal for families or groups who want to set their own schedule and avoid the crowds that sometimes gather on guided bus tours. Nature lovers, history buffs, and those intrigued by Hawaiian legends will find the narration particularly enriching.

Authentic Perspectives: What Travelers Say

Many reviewers praise the tour for its usefulness and engaging narration. One commented, “We enjoyed going through the park at our own pace. The narration was very informative!” Others appreciated the flexibility, noting it was “a great way to explore” and “helped us hit all the highlights.”

Some caution that app glitches can occur—“It was very confusing and highly unnecessary,” one reviewer said, referencing technical issues. To avoid this, download everything in advance and be prepared for potential hiccups.

A recurring theme among positive reviews is how the stories, fun facts, and local music add charm to the drive, transforming what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

For travelers seeking a cost-effective, flexible, and informative way to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this self-guided driving tour offers great value. It’s perfect if you prefer to go at your own pace, enjoy learning from audio stories, and want the convenience of offline navigation. The ability to skip stops or spend extra time at favorites means you can tailor your visit to your interests.

On the flip side, if you’re someone who needs a very reliable app or prefers guided group tours with a dedicated guide, you might face some technical frustrations. Also, it’s not a substitute for actual park entry fees, which are not included.

This tour shines brightest for adventurous, independent travelers who love customizing their experience and are comfortable using smartphones for navigation and storytelling. It’s an excellent way to deepen your understanding of the volcanic landscape and Hawaiian legends while maintaining the freedom to explore on your own terms.

FAQ

Does the tour include the entrance fees to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
No, the tour does not include park entrance fees. You’ll need to pay for admission separately.

Can I use the tour for multiple days?
Yes, the tour never expires, so you can start it when you arrive and pause or restart as needed over multiple days.

Is the app easy to use?
Most travelers find the app straightforward, with turn-by-turn directions and automatic audio playback. However, some reviews mention occasional glitches, so pre-downloading the content is recommended.

What should I bring with me?
Bring water, comfortable shoes for hiking, and a charged phone or device. It’s also wise to download the tour and maps ahead of time.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
The tour is priced for groups of up to 15 people, making it great for families or small groups traveling together.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable for all ages, especially since it involves driving, short walks, and educational storytelling—though younger children may need extra encouragement for hikes.

Whether you’re seeking a deep dive into Hawaiian legends or just want the freedom to explore at your own pace, this self-guided Volcanoes National Park tour offers an engaging, flexible, and budget-friendly way to see one of Hawaii’s most stunning landscapes.