Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Soaring over Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes on a Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is a must-do for adventurous travelers. This aerial excursion offers breathtaking views of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, with morning and afternoon flights catering to small groups of six. Passengers can expect insightful pilot commentary and noise-cancelling headsets, creating an immersive experience. But what we love about this tour goes beyond its stunning vantage points – it’s the accessible and safety-conscious approach that ensures a memorable journey for all.

Good To Know

• Experience breathtaking aerial views of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, including Kilauea and Mauna Loa, during a guided helicopter tour from Hilo.
• Enjoy the tour with knowledgeable pilot commentary and noise-cancelling headsets, with morning and afternoon flight options available.
• Conveniently book the tour with a meeting point at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters in Hilo, with transportation and wheelchair accessibility provided.
• Pricing starts at $482.90 per person, with complimentary admission for children 23 months and younger and accommodations for guests over 240 lbs.
• The tour boasts an average rating of 4.6 stars from 94 reviews, offering a must-do bucket-list experience with stunning panoramas and professional service.

Tour Overview

The Hilo Helicopter Tour offers visitors a unique aerial perspective of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. Soaring above Kilauea and Mauna Loa, guests can witness the region’s dramatic geological features, including waterfalls, craters, and the stunning Hamakua Coast.

The tour includes pilot commentary via Bose noise-cancelling headsets, allowing travelers to learn about the area’s volcanic activity and natural wonders. With morning and afternoon flight options, the tour is limited to just six travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Passengers can also purchase USB in-flight video and photo packages to capture their aerial adventure.

Booking and Logistics

To take the Hilo Helicopter Tour, travelers must first make their way to the meeting point at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters in Hilo, HI 96720. Arriving 45 minutes prior to departure is essential for the weight check and safety briefing. While parking fees at the heliport are $10 USD, transportation to the site is provided. Guests must plan their travel time carefully to avoid late arrivals, which are non-refundable. The tour accommodates up to 6 travelers for a personalized experience and includes:

Wheelchair access and a lift are available for boarding.

Pricing and Inclusions

The Hilo Helicopter Tour pricing starts at $482.90 per person. This price includes:

• Knowledgeable pilot guide
• Noise-cancelling headsets for commentary
• All fees and taxes
• USB in-flight video/photo packages available for purchase
• Complimentary for children 23 months and younger

For guests over 240 lbs, an adjacent empty seat is required at half the regular price.

The tour offers a personalized experience, limited to 6 travelers per flight.

While not included in the base price, the tour provides excellent value for the stunning aerial views and insights into Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes.

Accessibility and Safety

Wheelchair accessibility is available at the Hilo heliport, with a lift provided for boarding the helicopter.

Surfaces at the heliport are wheelchair accessible, ensuring a smooth experience for all guests.

Safety is a top priority, and passengers are advised not to scuba dive within 24 hours of the tour.

If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, but guests will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

With these accessibility and safety measures in place, the Hilo Helicopter Tour provides a memorable and worry-free aerial experience for travelers of all abilities.

Volcanic Sights and Landscapes

Hovering over Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, the Hilo Helicopter Tour offers unparalleled aerial views of the island’s iconic geological wonders.

Soaring above the active Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, guests witness the raw power of nature firsthand. The tour showcases:

• Dramatic lava flows cascading down the mountainsides
• Expansive craters carved into the earth’s surface
• Towering waterfalls plunging over verdant cliffs
• Panoramic vistas of the rugged Hamakua Coast
• Plumes of volcanic smoke and steam rising into the sky

This awe-inspiring experience immerses travelers in the dynamic, ever-changing landscape that defines the Big Island’s captivating volcanic heritage.

Pilot Expertise and Commentary

Piloting the Hilo Helicopter Tour is a role that demands exceptional expertise and situational awareness.

The experienced pilots provide knowledgeable commentary through the noise-cancelling headsets, enhancing the passengers’ understanding and appreciation of the volcanic landscapes below.

With two-way communication, travelers can ask questions and engage with the pilots, fostering a personalized experience.

The pilots’ keen observation skills allow them to identify noteworthy sights and phenomena, ensuring guests don’t miss the most captivating details of Hawaii’s dramatic geology.

Their professionalism and attention to safety create a secure and informative aerial adventure.

Traveler Feedback and Experiences

While the helicopter pilots’ expertise is crucial, many travelers also highlight the overall experience of the Hilo Helicopter Tour in their feedback.

With a 4.6-star average rating from 94 reviews, the tour earns high praise for its stunning aerial views, professional service, and knowledgeable guides.

Positive highlights include:

• Breathtaking panoramas of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes
• Smooth, stable flights that allow for clear photos and videos
• Helpful commentary from pilots through noise-cancelling headsets
• A personalized experience with small group sizes
• Convenient transportation and logistical support

Though some mention a desire for more in-flight information, most consider the Hilo Helicopter Tour a must-do bucket-list experience.

Preparing for Your Hilo Helicopter Adventure

How can travelers best prepare for their Hilo Helicopter Tour adventure?

First, arrive at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters meeting point 45 minutes early to complete check-in and safety briefings. Guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Bringing a camera and lightweight jacket is recommended. Those over 240 lbs will need to purchase an adjacent empty seat at half the regular price.

Guests should also allow ample travel time to avoid late arrivals, which are non-refundable. Finally, remember that scuba diving within 24 hours of the tour is prohibited for safety reasons.

With proper preparation, travelers can embark on an unforgettable Hilo helicopter journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Camera/Drone on the Helicopter Tour?

Guests can bring their camera on the Hilo Helicopter Tour to capture the stunning aerial views. However, drones are not permitted for safety reasons. Passengers are encouraged to check with the tour operator about any restrictions or policies regarding photography during the flight.

What Is the Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy for the Tour?

The tour’s cancellation and rescheduling policy states that if weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled. Customers have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund in the event of a cancellation.

Do I Need to Be an Experienced Helicopter Passenger?

No, you don’t need to be an experienced helicopter passenger. The tour is suitable for first-time flyers as well. The pilots provide a safety briefing and ensure a comfortable, enjoyable experience for all guests.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Helicopter?

There is a weight limit for the Hilo Helicopter Tour. Guests over 240 lbs will need to purchase an adjacent empty seat at half the regular price to accommodate the weight limit.

Are There Any Medical Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has a medical restriction – no scuba diving within 24 hours of the flight. Guests must disclose any mobility issues, as the tour offers wheelchair accessibility with a lift for boarding.

The Sum Up

The Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial experience over Hawaii’s captivating volcanic landscapes. With small group sizes, knowledgeable pilots, and accessibility features, it’s a bucket-list adventure that provides unique perspectives of the island’s natural wonders. Travelers can expect breathtaking views, insightful commentary, and a highly-rated experience that showcases the best of Hilo’s stunning scenery from the sky.