Soar above the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes and learn about its tropical wonders on this captivating 12-hour excursion. Departing from Waikiki, you’ll embark on an aerial adventure, witnessing the majestic Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes, verdant valleys, and rugged coastline from the comfort of a helicopter. But the journey doesn’t stop there – explore cultural and historical sites, from the striking Richardson Black Sand Beach to the iconic King Kamehameha Statue, before culminating at the breathtaking Rainbow Falls viewpoint. This comprehensive tour promises to unveil the island’s most awe-inspiring sights, leaving you with memories that will linger long after your return.
Key Points
- This 12-hour tour departs from Waikiki and offers a bird’s-eye view of the Big Island’s volcanic terrain, tropical forests, and waterfalls via a 45-50 minute helicopter ride.
- The ground tour includes visits to cultural and historical sites, such as the Richardson Black Sand Beach, the Liliuokalani Gardens, and the King Kamehameha statue in Hilo.
- Travelers can observe the dynamic volcanic geology, lush tropical rainforests, and stunning natural landscapes, including hidden waterfalls and vibrant splashes of color.
- The tour provides an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate the scale and grandeur of the island’s diverse ecosystems, including the contrasting volcanic landscapes and verdant forests.
- The tour offers a flexible booking and cancellation policy, allowing travelers to reserve their spot and make changes if needed, ensuring a convenient and customer-centric experience.
Tour Details
This 12-hour Big Island Volcano Helicopter and Ground Tour whisks adventurous travelers from Waikiki to the island’s dynamic volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
The experience begins with a 45-50 minute helicopter ride that offers a bird’s-eye view of the region’s natural wonders. Soaring above the earth, guests witness the island’s dramatic volcanic terrain, dense tropical forests, and majestic waterfalls.
After the aerial exploration, the ground tour delves deeper into the area’s cultural and historical sites. Visitors stroll through the serene Liliuokalani Gardens, marvel at the iconic King Kamehameha Statue, and witness the cascading beauty of Rainbow Falls.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, guided commentary, and all entrance fees included, this comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable Big Island adventure.
Helicopter Ride Overview
The 45-50 minute helicopter ride whisks adventurous travelers above the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush tropical rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, offering a bird’s-eye view of the Big Island’s natural wonders.
Departing from Waikiki between 6:00-8:00 AM, the aerial tour provides a thrilling aerial perspective of the island’s iconic volcanic features, including the steaming summits of Mauna Loa and Kilauea.
Passengers are treated to a visual feast as the helicopter glides over verdant valleys, thundering waterfalls, and miles of rugged coastline.
This unforgettable helicopter experience allows visitors to appreciate the Big Island’s diverse and awe-inspiring terrain from an unparalleled vantage point high above the clouds.
Volcanic Landscapes and Rainforests
Volcanic landscapes and lush tropical rainforests form the captivating tapestry of the Big Island’s natural wonders, showcased during the helicopter tour’s aerial journey.
Soaring above the rugged terrain, guests witness the island’s dynamic geology – steaming vents, solidified lava flows, and towering volcanic peaks.
The helicopter glides over dense, verdant forests, revealing hidden waterfalls and cascading streams.
Vast expanses of vivid greens and browns give way to vibrant splashes of color, as the pilot navigates the helicopter through this breathtaking aerial ballet.
From the bird’s-eye view, the true scale and grandeur of the island’s volcanic and rainforest ecosystems come into sharp focus, leaving an indelible impression on all who witness this natural spectacle.
Richardson Black Sand Beach
One of the highlights of the ground tour is a visit to the striking Richardson Black Sand Beach, where visitors can stroll along the ebony-hued shores and marvel at the dramatic interplay between land and sea.
The volcanic sand, formed by the rapid cooling of lava, creates a stark and mesmerizing contrast against the turquoise waters of the Pacific.
Guests can take in the raw, rugged beauty of the landscape, listening to the rhythmic crashing of the waves and feeling the salty breeze on their skin.
This unique natural wonder offers a profound connection to the island’s fiery origins and serves as a testament to the power and dynamism of the Hawaiian archipelago.
Liliuokalani Gardens Exploration
After marveling at the dramatic black sand beach, the tour then leads visitors to the serene Liliuokalani Gardens, a tranquil oasis that offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Sprawling across 30 acres, the gardens feature traditional Japanese landscaping elements like pagodas, bridges, and koi ponds. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths, admiring the vibrant tropical flora and feeling a sense of peace wash over them.
The gardens were named after Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom, and they serve as a living testament to the island’s history and the enduring spirit of its people.
King Kamehameha Statue and Hilo
The tour next leads visitors to the historic town of Hilo, where they can marvel at the imposing statue of King Kamehameha I, the unifier of the Hawaiian Islands.
Erected in 1883, the bronze monument stands as a powerful symbol of the island’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of its most renowned monarch. Towering over Hilo Bay, the statue depicts the great king in a regal posture, commanding attention and inspiring awe.
As guests wander through the charming streets of Hilo, they’ll discover the town’s vibrant blend of Hawaiian, American, and Japanese influences, from colorful storefronts to bustling markets. This stop offers a glimpse into the island’s captivating history and the enduring spirit of its people.
Rainbow Falls Viewpoint
As the tour moves on from the historic Hilo Town, it leads visitors to the captivating Rainbow Falls viewpoint.
This natural wonder cascades over a lush, verdant cliff, creating a stunning display of nature’s artistry as the water refracts sunlight into a vibrant rainbow arch.
Guests can witness the powerful flow of the waterfall and marvel at the surrounding tropical foliage that frames this picturesque scene.
The viewing platform offers an unobstructed vantage point, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the cascading beauty of Rainbow Falls.
This natural spectacle is a highlight of the ground tour, providing a mesmerizing contrast to the volcanic landscapes observed from the helicopter earlier in the day.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers can reserve their spot on the Big Island Volcano Helicopter and Ground Tour and pay later, offering flexibility in planning their Hawaiian adventure.
Plus, the tour provider extends a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure, providing guests with the freedom to adjust their itinerary if needed.
This booking and cancellation policy ensures that guests can secure their tour without the immediate financial commitment, while also having the option to change their plans if unforeseen circumstances arise.
This level of convenience and customer-centric approach allows travelers to focus on the excitement of the tour, rather than being bogged down by rigid booking requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum and Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated, but most helicopter tours typically accommodate between 4 to 6 passengers. The small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience during the aerial and ground explorations.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age or fitness restrictions for this tour. Participants of all ages and activity levels can enjoy the helicopter ride and ground tour, which offer a mix of sightseeing and exploration.
Can We Purchase Additional Photo Packages or Souvenirs During the Tour?
Participants can purchase additional photo packages and souvenirs during the tour. The provider offers options to capture and remember the stunning volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and majestic waterfalls seen from the helicopter and ground portions.
Is There an Option to Extend the Helicopter Ride Duration?
Yes, there is an option to extend the helicopter ride duration. For an additional fee, guests can upgrade their tour to include a longer aerial exploration of the volcanic landscapes, tropical rainforests, and majestic waterfalls.
Can We Request a Specific Departure Time for the Helicopter Tour?
Customers can request a specific departure time for the helicopter tour, but the availability may be subject to change based on factors like weather conditions and tour schedules. The tour operator will work to accommodate requested times if possible.
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Recap
This sweeping Big Island tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Hawaii’s natural wonders from the air and on the ground.
From the dramatic vistas of Mauna Loa and Kilauea to the serene beauty of Liliuokalani Gardens and the awe-inspiring Rainbow Falls, this excursion immerses visitors in the island’s captivating volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, delivering an unforgettable and comprehensive exploration of the Big Island’s most stunning sights.
