Day Trip From Oahu to Hilo: Active Volcanoes & Helicopter Tour

Exploring the Big Island from Oahu is an adventure not to be missed. This full-day tour takes you on an unforgettable journey, soaring over active volcanoes and cascading waterfalls in a helicopter before delving into the wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With comfortable transportation and a small group, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience capturing the breathtaking sights of Hilo. But what awaits you at the end of this thrilling excursion?

Good To Know

• This full-day air and land tour from Oahu to Hilo on the Big Island offers exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Richardson black sand beach, and Rainbow Falls.
• The tour includes a 45-minute helicopter ride with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, providing aerial views of volcanoes and waterfalls.
• Passengers must weigh less than 240 lbs for the helicopter ride, and a valid government-issued ID is required for TSA compliance.
• Reservations are non-refundable and non-changeable, and lava sightings are not guaranteed due to unpredictable volcanic activity.
• Respiratory issues may pose risks due to potential volcano fumes, and helicopter tours may be canceled due to weather conditions.

Tour Overview

This full-day air and land tour takes visitors from Oahu to Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii.

You’ll explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Richardson black sand beach, and Rainbow Falls.

The highlight is a 45-minute helicopter tour with aerial views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and tropical landscapes.

The tour includes round-trip airfare, lunch, and professional guide narration.

It’s an excellent way to see the best of the Big Island in a single day.

The maximum group size is 12 for a more personalized experience.

Tour Details and Inclusions

The tour includes a 45-minute helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, providing guests with aerial perspectives of volcanoes, waterfalls, and tropical landscapes.

Ground transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle. Gratuities and a comfort seat surcharge for passengers over 240 lbs are included.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Guests must provide a valid government-issued ID for TSA compliance, and special needs requests should be communicated to the local supplier at least one week prior to the tour.

Reservations are non-refundable and non-changeable.

Important Information and Restrictions

There are a few important details to keep in mind for this tour.

First, there’s a 240-lb weight limit per passenger for the helicopter ride. You’ll also need a valid government ID for TSA compliance.

And remember, these reservations are non-refundable and non-changeable. If you have any special needs, be sure to communicate them to the supplier at least a week in advance.

The tour’s not recommended for those with respiratory issues due to potential volcano fumes.

And while lava sightings are possible, they’re not guaranteed. The helicopter portion may also get canceled due to weather, but you’ll get a refund for that part.

Health and Safety Considerations

Passengers with respiratory issues should consider alternative tours due to potential exposure to fumes from the volcanoes.

Lava sightings aren’t guaranteed, as volcanic activity can be unpredictable. The helicopter tour may be canceled due to weather conditions, in which case refunds will only be provided for the helicopter portion of the tour.

Key health and safety considerations:

1. Respiratory concerns due to volcanic fumes
2. Uncertainty around lava sightings
3. Helicopter tour cancellations due to weather
4. Refunds limited to helicopter portion only

Customer Feedback and Experiences

Although the tour has received mixed reviews, passengers have shared both positive and negative experiences.

Many praised the knowledgeable guides and the comprehensive coverage of the Big Island’s natural wonders. However, some complained about the comfort and space constraints of the helicopter.

Plus, there were issues with communication and refunds when flights were canceled due to weather.

Breathtaking Aerial Views of Volcanoes and Waterfalls

The highlight of this tour has to be the 45-minute helicopter ride over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Soaring high above the rugged terrain, passengers are treated to breathtaking aerial views of active volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, and lush tropical landscapes.

Key highlights include:

1. Witnessing the powerful eruptions and lava flows of Kilauea Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
2. Marveling at the thundering waterfalls of Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls, nestled amidst the island’s verdant rainforests.
3. Admiring the stunning, multicolored cliffs and beaches that line the island’s dramatic coastline.
4. Spotting endangered species and diverse ecosystems from an unparalleled bird’s-eye view.

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

After the breathtaking helicopter tour, the tour group ventures into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of the island’s most captivating natural wonders.

They explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes, marveling at the steaming craters and lava flows. The knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights about the park’s unique geology and the cultural significance of the volcanoes to native Hawaiians.

Hiking through lush rainforests, the group encounters cascading waterfalls and unique flora and fauna. From the summit of Kilauea Volcano, they gaze in awe at the vast expanse of the park, a testament to the raw power of nature.

It’s an unforgettable experience.

Discovering Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach

Following their captivating experience in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the tour group now heads to explore two of the Big Island’s other natural gems – Rainbow Falls and Richardson black sand beach.

Along the way, they’ll witness the stunning 80-foot cascade of Rainbow Falls, known for its vibrant hues.

Next, they’ll stroll along the unique black sand beach at Richardson, a picturesque spot that offers:

1. Dramatic volcanic rock formations
2. Opportunities to spot sea turtles and other marine life
3. Picnic areas for enjoying a seaside lunch
4. A chance to dip their toes in the refreshing Pacific waters.

The Sum Up

This day trip to Hilo from Oahu is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure. The helicopter tour over active volcanoes and cascading waterfalls will leave you in awe, while exploring the natural wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the stunning Rainbow Falls will create lasting memories. With comfortable transportation and a small group, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience you won’t want to miss.