• Kilauea Visitor Center - Begin your journey at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with a crucial visit to the Kīlauea Visitor Center (or the current park orientation facility). Here, an expert guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the park’s dynamic geology, its cultural significance to Hawaii, and the current volcanic conditions, setting the tone for your adventure. Take time to explore the informative exhibits, use the restrooms, and shop for unique souvenirs before venturing further into the fascinating volcanic landscape.

• Kilauea Overlook - Next, marvel at the Kīlauea Overlook, the premier viewpoint for the expansive Kīlauea caldera and Halemaʻumaʻu crater. From this impressive vantage point, your expert guide will bring the dynamic landscape to life, sharing insights into its geological history and current activity. Appreciate the vast scale of the volcano. If conditions allow and Kīlauea is actively fountaining, this is also an excellent spot to witness lava fountaining (visible activity is not guaranteed).

• Steam Vents - At locations like Wahinekapu (Steaming Bluff) and Haʻakulamanu (Sulphur Banks), experience the tangible geothermal activity as steam columns rise directly from the earth. Your expert guide will explain the science behind these powerful phenomena, offering a direct connection to the active magma chamber below. Feel the warmth and often detect the distinct scent of sulfur, providing a truly immersive sensory experience of the volcano’s ongoing forces.

• Nahuku - Thurston Lava Tube - From the Kīlauea Iki Trailhead, embark on an engaging walk to discover Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube). This journey takes you through dense rainforest, descending into the massive, cool cavern formed by ancient liquid rock flows. Experience this surreal volcanic underworld, then return to the trailhead. Your guide will illuminate the tube’s formation and the unique ecosystem thriving above.

• Volcano House - Pause at the iconic Volcano House, a historic hotel gracefully perched on the rim of Kīlauea caldera. While typically a brief stop, its notable vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera, providing a unique perspective of the volcano’s vastness. Your guide can share fascinating stories of its storied past and its role in the park’s history, as you soak in the atmosphere of this unique lodge within a national park, with opportunities for restrooms or quick souvenir browsing.

• Chain of Craters Road - >HILO PORT DEPARTURES ONLY<. Embark on a spectacular 2-hour drive along Chain of Craters Road, a dramatic descent from the summit to the coast. This iconic route showcases immense lava flows from past eruptions, ancient petroglyph fields, and numerous pit craters formed by collapsing land. Witness incredible coastal views where volcanic cliffs meet the Pacific, and learn about the continuous shaping of the island by Earth’s raw power. Your guide will highlight key geological features and points of interest along this unforgettable scenic route.

• Experienced and knowledgeable tour guide/driver who speaks English
• Private transportation
• Park entry fees
• Opportunity to view the Kilauea eruption (subject to natural conditions)
• Binoculars and/or Spotting Scope for lava viewing (depending on availability)
• Dinner
• Snacks
• Bottled water
• Carbonated beverages
• Umbrellas
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Bug Spray
• Parking fees

• Gratuities
• Personal expense and souvenirs
• Additional snacks or beverages beyond the provided offerings

For cruise ship passengers arriving from Kona or Hilo, our exclusive Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour provides a unique and stress-free shore experience. Say goodbye to inflexible schedules; your guide will meet you directly at the port, aligning with your ship’s schedule for optimal comfort and assurance. Your group will explore the Big Island’s volcanic core with full exclusivity and personalized attention.

The time spent actively in the park is optimized based on the port (approximately 3 hours for Kona departures due to longer travel times, and over 4 hours for Hilo departures). Every moment is carefully designed to immerse you in the geology, culture, and diverse ecosystems of Kīlauea. Your private guide will unveil the volcano’s mysteries, providing essential insights into its power – including current activity, although visible lava or glow is not guaranteed. This tailored approach turns your limited port time into a truly unforgettable and deeply personal experience with a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfectly timed for your return to the ship.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.