Hilo: Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls

Hilo: Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls – A Complete Review

If you’re dreaming of stomping through lava fields, gazing at erupting volcanoes, and soaking in lush waterfalls, the Hilo Fissure 8 Tour promises just that. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed info and glowing reviews make it clear this is an adventure packed with unforgettable sights and meaningful insights into Hawaii’s volcanic marvels.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert local guide owns the land, giving exclusive access to the Fissure 8 site—an extraordinary advantage. Second, the mix of scenic drives and cultural stops offers a rounded experience that goes beyond just the volcano. And third, the comprehensive itinerary combines both exploration and education, making it ideal for curious travelers.

A potential consideration? The eight-hour duration means a full day of activity and travel, which might be demanding for some. But if you’re after a deep dive into Hawaii’s volcanic heart, this trip is well worth it. This tour suits those who love nature, geology, culture, and scenic adventures, especially travelers who enjoy guided experiences that balance learning and exploration.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Exclusive Access: The local guide owns the land, providing unique access to Fissure 8 and its surreal lava formations.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes visits to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, historic Hilo, and scenic drives along the coast.
• Educational and Scenic: Learn about Hawaiian geology and culture while marveling at erupting volcanoes, lava rivers, and waterfalls.
• All-Inclusive Value: Food, drinks, and snacks are included, offering great value for a full-day experience.
• Multilingual Guides: Available in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Taiwanese, catering to diverse travelers.
• Wheelchair Accessible: The tour accommodates mobility needs, making it accessible to more visitors.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

The day begins with a comfortable pickup from various Hilo and Kona locations, with a note that Kona pickups cost extra and add travel time. Once aboard, the journey kicks off with a scenic drive through lush upland forests, setting the tone for the awe-inspiring day ahead. The highlight here is the visit to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll make multiple stops at key sites.

At the Klauea Visitor Center, you’ll get a concise overview of the park’s geology and Hawaiian culture, courtesy of a knowledgeable guide—likely someone with a real passion for sharing Hawaii’s volcanic story. From there, the drive takes you along Chain of Craters Road and Crater Rim Drive, two of the most scenic routes in the park, with numerous stops that showcase the park’s diverse volcanic terrain.

You’ll visit iconic spots like the Halemaumau Crater at Ukahuna Look Out, where the steaming crater often puts on a dramatic show, and Sulphur Banks at Haakulamanu, with its bubbling sulfur vents and otherworldly landscape. The Klauea Iki Overlook offers sweeping views of the crater floor, and the Thurston Lava Tube immerses you in the volcanic landscape’s underground side.

The real showstopper is the Fissure 8 hike at Leilani Estates. Guided by the landowner, you’ll walk across hardened lava fields that once devastated entire communities. Expect to see the towering Fissure 8 cone, streams of cooled lava, and the mesmerizing terrain formed during the 2018 eruption. One reviewer described the hike as surreal, emphasizing the chance to get up close with active volcanic features that are otherwise inaccessible.

The Cultural and Historical Touchpoints

Beyond volcanoes, the tour includes a drive through historic Hilo, with stops at sites like Queen Liliuokalani Gardens and the King Kamehameha Statue. These spots offer a taste of local heritage amidst the tropical scenery. The Naha Stone is another notable stop, connecting visitors with Hawaii’s ancient traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Waterfalls and Coastal Beauty

The Hilo Discovery Package adds a scenic layer to the day. Stops include the Black Sand Beach at Richardson, known for its striking volcanic sands, and the Rainbow Falls, which, when sunny, often produces a rainbow—an Instagram favorite. The Scenic Drive along Reeds Bay and Banyan Tree Lane offers peaceful vistas and lush surroundings, rounding out the coastal experience.

Food and Comfort

The tour includes Hawaiian-style juices, water, grab-and-go snacks, and a lunch with a choice of sandwiches. This thoughtful inclusion ensures you’re fueled for a full day of walking and sightseeing without worrying about finding food on your own.

Group Size, Transportation, and Accessibility

With a live guide speaking Chinese, English, and Japanese, the experience is designed to be engaging and informative. Expect a small group atmosphere, ideal for interaction and personalized attention. The wheelchair accessible nature means that more travelers can enjoy the sights comfortably.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler from Japan gave the tour a perfect 5-star rating, praising the guide’s storytelling skills. They emphasized how the guide’s narratives made the volcanic landscape come alive, transforming a walk across lava into a vivid history lesson.

Another review highlighted how stunning the views were, especially at key viewpoints like the Halemaumau Crater. The reviewer noted that the expert guidance made the experience not only beautiful but also educational, with plenty of facts along the way.

The exclusive access to Fissure 8 is a major draw, as most visitors don’t get to see this site up close. The terrain is described as surreal, with hardened lava rivers and volcanic cones that look like they’ve come from another planet.

How Does It Value Compare?

At $240 per person, the tour offers good value, considering the inclusions: transportation, expert guides, multiple park stops, a guided hike, and meals. The fact that you’ll visit key volcanic and cultural sites ensures you’re getting a comprehensive glimpse of the island’s volcanic core. The guided aspect means you won’t be lost navigating on your own, and the local guide’s ownership of the land gives an authentic edge to the Fissure 8 experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Hilo Fissure 8 Tour is perfect for adventure seekers, geology enthusiasts, and culture lovers alike. If you want to witness Hawaii’s volcanic power firsthand while enjoying scenic drives and meaningful stops, this tour hits all those notes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided experiences, insider access, and a full-day itinerary that balances education with awe-inspiring sights.

Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or shorter excursions might find the day long, but for those craving an in-depth volcanic adventure, it’s a solid choice. The inclusion of food, multilingual guides, and wheelchair access make it a practical and inclusive option, ensuring comfort and clarity for diverse groups.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides pick-up from various Hilo and Kona locations, with Kona pickups costing extra. The transportation is comfortable and climate-controlled.

How long does the tour last? It’s an 8-hour experience, making it a full day of exploration and sightseeing.

Are meals provided? Yes, the tour includes Hawaiian-style juices, water, grab-and-go snacks, and a choice of sandwiches for lunch.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and generally suitable for most ages, but the full-day activity may be tiring for some.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak English, Chinese, Japanese, and Taiwanese, ensuring clear communication for a diverse clientele.

Do I need special shoes? Comfortable closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially for walking on lava fields and uneven terrain.

Are there any restrictions on drones? Yes, drones are not allowed at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, water, a camera for photos, and comfortable walking shoes.

What is the benefit of the Volcano Explorer and Hilo Discovery packages? They enhance the experience by including scenic drives, cultural stops, and detailed insights into Hawaii’s volcanic landscape and history.

Final Words

If you’ve dreamed of witnessing Hawaii’s volcanic might up close, this tour offers a well-rounded, educational, and awe-inspiring adventure. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive day that combines natural wonders with cultural insights. The combination of exclusive access, expert guides, and scenic stops makes it a standout choice for exploring the island’s fiery heart.

For those who value authentic, in-depth experiences and enjoy learning about the fascinating geology of Hawaii, this tour will leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of incredible photos to prove it. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island explorer, the Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour promises a day full of discovery and wonder.

You can check if your dates are available here: