What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
Hey there, I’m Justin! After years working as a Shore Excursion Manager on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America, I thought I’d seen every way possible to experience Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. Then I discovered the Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour — and let me tell you, this combination experience completely changed my perspective on Big Island exploration.
Safety & Operator Credentials: Polynesian Adventure Tours
With over two decades of experience and a commitment to FAA compliance and safety excellence, Polynesian Adventure Tours has established itself as a trusted name in Hawaiian aviation tourism. Travelers can fly with confidence knowing they are in the hands of experienced professionals dedicated to delivering safe, unforgettable aerial experiences of the Big Island.
Polynesian Adventure Tours operates under strict FAA Part 135 certification, ensuring full compliance with federal aviation safety regulations.
The company maintains an impeccable safety record with rigorous pre-flight inspections and adherence to the highest industry safety standards.
Their fleet consists of well-maintained, modern helicopters equipped with cutting-edge safety features ideal for Big Island aerial tours.
All pilots are FAA-certified commercial aviators with extensive flight hours and specialized training in Hawaiian terrain and weather conditions.
Polynesian Adventure Tours is highly rated on Viator with consistently excellent reviews from satisfied customers.
📅 Check Availability for Your Dates
Tours sell out fast — especially on weekends and during peak season. Enter your travel dates on Viator to see what’s available before it’s gone.
This isn’t your typical quick helicopter flyover or rushed bus tour. At 10 hours and 30 minutes, this comprehensive adventure operated by Polynesian Adventure Tours gives you the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour experience combined with immersive ground exploration. You’ll spend an entire day diving deep into the volcanic heart of Hawaii, from steam vents you can actually feel beneath your feet to aerial views that’ll have you reaching for your camera every few seconds.
What makes this Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour Review so exciting to write is the sheer variety packed into one day. You’re not just looking at volcanoes from a distance — you’re walking through lava tubes, feeling geothermal heat, and witnessing the raw power that created these islands. If you’re ready for the ultimate volcanic immersion, book this Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour on Viator before spots fill up.
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
One thing I always appreciated during my cruise ship days was transparency about what’s included — and Polynesian Adventure Tours delivers exactly that. Here’s what your tour package covers:
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
- Pick-up and drop-off at specific Hilo hotels — no need to worry about transportation logistics
- Tour narration by a professional driver/guide — these guides know their stuff, sharing legends, history, and cultural insights throughout
- Lunch included — fuel up properly for a full day of exploration
- Air-conditioned vehicle — essential for Hawaii’s tropical climate
- All Admission Fees — no surprise costs at park entrances or attractions
The optional helicopter add-on takes this experience from excellent to extraordinary. While the ground tour gives you intimate access to volcanic features, adding aerial perspective transforms your understanding of the Big Island’s dramatic topography. This helicopter tour review wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing how the combination of perspectives creates a truly comprehensive volcanic education.
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — The Crown Jewel
The centerpiece of this adventure is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Earth’s raw creative power in ways that photographs simply cannot capture.
Kilauea, the star attraction, experienced its latest eruption in June 2023! Vents continue spewing lava from within Halema’uma’u, a pit crater in the volcano’s summit caldera. Seeing active volcanic activity — whether from the ground or air — is genuinely life-changing. This is why I consistently recommend this as the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for volcano enthusiasts.
Chain of Craters Road — 19 Miles of Volcanic Drama
The Chain of Craters Road winds 19 miles through the East Rift and coastal area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This isn’t just a scenic drive — it’s a journey through geological time. You’ll pass ancient lava flows, dramatic pit craters, and landscapes that look more like another planet than Earth.
Note that some areas may be inaccessible depending on current volcanic conditions, but your experienced guide will adapt the route to ensure you see the most spectacular accessible viewpoints. Check availability and pricing here to start planning your volcanic adventure.
Steam Vents — Feel the Earth’s Power
There’s something profound about standing at the steam vents and feeling volcanic heat rising from beneath your feet. Ground water seeps into volcanic rock deep below, heats up, and rises as steam — a constant reminder that you’re standing on one of Earth’s most geologically active locations.
Thurston Lava Tube — Walk Through Ancient Lava
The tropical forest area features Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube), a long subterranean cave formed by ancient flowing lava. Walking through this natural tunnel, surrounded by lush rainforest above, connects you to the volcanic processes that built Hawaii over millions of years.
Rainbow Falls — Hilo’s Natural Wonder
Witness rainbows forming in the mist at Rainbow Falls, one of Hilo’s most magnificent waterfalls. The morning sunlight often creates stunning rainbow effects in the waterfall’s spray — a magical Hawaiian moment you’ll never forget.
Liliuokalani Gardens — Serene Japanese Beauty
Liliuokalani Gardens offers a peaceful contrast to volcanic intensity. Renowned for its lush Japanese gardens, this stop showcases Hawaii’s multicultural heritage while providing stunning photo opportunities.
Historic Hilo Town — Where History Lives
Your journey includes drives through historic Hilo Town, where tsunamis in 1946 and 1960 caused cataclysmic damage, forcing the town to be rebuilt further inland. Today, wooden storefronts remain in this laid-back community that manages to keep the country vibe alive.
You’ll also cruise along magnificent Banyan tree-lined streets along Hilo’s coastline, known as the “Hilo Walk of Fame” — a charming introduction to this authentic Hawaiian town.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Helicopter Tour Tip
This tour departs exclusively from Hilo-area hotels — guests staying in Kona will need to arrange separate transportation to Hilo or consider alternative tour options.
| Tour Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Tour Name | Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour |
| Operator | Polynesian Adventure Tours |
| Price | From $203 |
| Duration | 10 hr 30 min |
| Rating | 4.7/5 (418 reviews) |
| Pickup | Specific Hilo hotels only |
| Includes | Lunch, all admission fees, guide narration |
| Vehicle | Air-conditioned |
For the helicopter portion, wear comfortable, dark-colored clothing to minimize reflections in windows. Secure loose items and bring a camera with a strap. The best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour experience comes to those who prepare properly!
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
Life happens, and Polynesian Adventure Tours understands that. Their cancellation policy offers excellent flexibility:
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
This generous policy means you can book with confidence, knowing that unexpected changes won’t cost you your entire investment. Weather conditions can affect helicopter operations, so having this flexibility provides peace of mind.
I always recommend booking early in your Hawaii trip if possible. This way, if weather causes a cancellation, you may have opportunity to reschedule before leaving the island. This helicopter tour review tip comes straight from my cruise ship experience — I’ve seen too many guests miss out by booking their dream tour on their last available day.
The Best Times to Book
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After helping thousands of cruise passengers book Hawaiian excursions, I’ve learned what separates good volcanic experiences from unforgettable ones. Here are my top tips for maximizing your Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour:
- Book the helicopter add-on — seriously. The ground tour is fantastic, but aerial volcanic views transform this from a great tour to a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The combination perspective is what makes this the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour option for comprehensive volcano exploration.
- Wear layers — Hilo’s weather can be unpredictable, and you’ll experience different microclimates throughout the day. The volcanic crater areas can be surprisingly cool, while the lava tube stays constant underground.
- Bring a quality camera with plenty of storage — you’ll take hundreds of photos. Trust me, every volcanic vista and waterfall deserves documentation. Secure your spot on Viator before it sells out and start clearing that phone storage!
- Stay hydrated and eat the included lunch — ten and a half hours is a full day. The included lunch isn’t just a convenience; it’s essential fuel for afternoon exploration.
- Ask your guide questions — these professional driver/guides are treasure troves of Hawaiian history, legends, and cultural knowledge. The more you engage, the richer your experience becomes.
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Stunning Volcanic Landscapes
Visitors are awestruck by the dramatic scenery of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and its active craters.
Knowledgeable Guides
Travellers praise guides who bring Hawaiian legends, history, and culture to life throughout the journey.
Beautiful Hilo Scenery
Guests love exploring the lush, tropical vistas and charming atmosphere of Hilo Town.
Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Reviewers describe this Big Island adventure as an unforgettable bucket-list experience worth every moment.
This Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour Review reflects what 418 verified travelers have already discovered — this is an exceptional way to experience Hawaii’s volcanic wonders.
- Overall Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Total Reviews: 418 verified traveler reviews
- Starting Price: From $203
The combination of professional narration, comprehensive itinerary, and optional helicopter enhancement creates an experience that consistently exceeds expectations. Guests particularly praise the knowledgeable guides who bring Hawaiian legends and geological history to life throughout the journey.
This helicopter tour review highlights what makes the experience special: the rare opportunity to understand volcanoes from multiple perspectives. You’re not just seeing Kilauea — you’re feeling its steam, walking through its ancient lava tubes, and potentially viewing it from above.
Helicopter Tour Tip
The 4.7-star rating across 418 reviews indicates remarkable consistency — this tour delivers quality experiences day after day, making it a reliable choice for your Hawaiian adventure.
Book Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour before it’s too late!
Here’s the reality: the Big Island’s volcanic landscape is constantly changing. Kilauea’s June 2023 eruption reminds us that these are living, breathing geological features. What you see today may look different tomorrow — that’s part of what makes volcanic tourism so thrilling.
This Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour offers something increasingly rare in our rushed world: time. Ten and a half hours to truly absorb volcanic wonders, ask questions, take photos, and create memories that last a lifetime.
At from $203 with lunch, all admissions, and professional narration included, this represents exceptional value for a full-day Hawaiian adventure. Add the helicopter option and you’ve got the complete volcanic experience package.
Don’t wait until spots fill up or conditions change. Your Hawaiian volcanic adventure awaits.
Spots Fill Fast – Reserve Your Flight Before It’s Gone!
Top-rated helicopter tours often sell out weeks in advance. Book now to lock in your spot before peak dates disappear.
Things to Do Near Your Helicopter Tour
While you’re in the area, make the most of your trip! Here are some top things to do near Big Island of Hawaii — from beaches and local eats to landmarks worth exploring.
Explore active volcanoes, lava tubes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
45 min drive from Hilo
Relax on one of Hawaii’s largest and most beautiful white sand beaches with excellent swimming conditions.
30 min drive from Kona
Experience an unforgettable nighttime snorkel or dive with graceful manta rays along the Kona coast.
15 min drive from Kona
Visit this stunning volcanic black sand beach where Hawaiian green sea turtles often rest on the shore.
1 hour drive from Hilo
Enjoy fresh seafood and tropical cocktails at this iconic oceanfront restaurant with stunning sunset views.
5 min drive from Kona
Drive to the summit of this dormant volcano for world-class stargazing and breathtaking views above the clouds.
1.5 hour drive from Hilo
Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
Question: Is this tour available for guests staying in Kona?
Answer: This tour offers hotel pickups exclusively in the Hilo area. Guests staying in Kona would need to arrange their own transportation to Hilo or consider alternative Big Island tour options departing from the Kona side.
Question: How long is the complete tour experience?
Answer: The Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour runs approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, making it a comprehensive full-day experience that thoroughly explores Hilo’s volcanic landscapes.
Question: What’s included in the base tour price?
Answer: Your tour includes Hilo hotel pickup and drop-off, professional driver/guide narration, lunch, air-conditioned vehicle transportation, and all admission fees to attractions and national parks visited.
Question: How does the optional helicopter portion work?
Answer: The helicopter add-on provides aerial perspectives of the volcanic landscapes you explore on the ground. Contact Polynesian Adventure Tours directly for specific helicopter timing and pricing details.
Question: What’s the cancellation policy?
Answer: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. This flexible policy allows you to book with confidence.
Question: Will I see active lava?
Answer: Volcanic activity varies. Kilauea’s latest eruption was June 2023, with vents spewing lava from Halema’uma’u crater. Current conditions determine visible activity — your guide will provide real-time updates on what’s currently viewable.
Question: Is the tour suitable for children?
Answer: Yes, this tour accommodates families. The air-conditioned vehicle, included lunch, and varied attractions keep younger travelers engaged throughout the 10+ hour experience.
Question: What should I wear?
Answer: Wear comfortable layers, sturdy walking shoes, and bring rain gear. Hilo’s weather can change quickly, and you’ll encounter different conditions at various elevations throughout the day.
Question: How physically demanding is this tour?
Answer: The tour involves moderate walking at various stops, including through the lava tube. Most reasonably fit travelers handle it comfortably, though those with mobility concerns should discuss accommodations with the operator.
Question: Are meals included?
Answer: Yes, lunch is included in your tour package. Stay hydrated throughout the day, and consider bringing snacks for the extended tour duration.
Question: What makes this different from other Big Island volcano tours?
Answer: This Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour stands out for its comprehensive duration, combination ground/air perspectives, and focus on Hilo’s unique volcanic landscapes and cultural heritage — making it the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for thorough volcanic exploration.
Question: When is the best time of year to take this tour?
Answer: Hawaii’s volcanic attractions are spectacular year-round. However, winter months (December-February) may see more rainfall on the Hilo side. Morning departures typically offer better weather conditions and lighting for photography.
Ready to experience Hawaii’s volcanic wonders from every angle? Don’t miss this opportunity — book your Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour today and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!
