Overview of the Big Island "Circle of Fire" Helicopter Tour
The "Circle of Fire" is a scenic helicopter excursion departing from Hilo on Hawaii's Big Island, taking passengers on an aerial tour of Mount Kilauea and its volcanic landscape. The video captures a full-day adventure that combines the thrill of helicopter flight with up-close views of one of the world's most active volcanoes. This experience suits travelers who want to see dramatic geological features from the air, understand Hawaii's volcanic geology firsthand, and don't mind heights or the noise of a helicopter cabin.
Shot across multiple camera angles—including onboard helicopter cameras, GoPro footage, and traditional cameras—the video documents not just the flight itself but also other highlights from a day spent in Hilo. The tour combines education with spectacle: your pilot provides detailed commentary throughout, turning the flight into an informal geology lesson. This is an ideal choice for adventure travelers, geology enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a unique vantage point on Hawaii's most powerful natural forces.
What You'll See on the Circle of Fire Route
- Mount Kilauea from above, including views of the volcano's crater and recent eruption damage to surrounding areas
- Active volcanic vents releasing gas and steam, showing that the volcano remains geologically active
- Fissures across the landscape where lava has broken through the surface
- The broader Big Island volcanic terrain and how eruptions have shaped the surrounding environment
- Extensive pilot commentary about volcanic processes, geology, and the island's natural history
What to Know Before Booking Your Helicopter Flight
- Expect a long flight duration with substantial airtime over the volcanic zone and surrounding landscape
- The tour operates from Hilo on the Big Island, making it accessible if you're staying in that region or visiting via cruise
- Your pilot will provide detailed, educational narration throughout—bring a notepad if you want to record facts and observations
- Multiple camera angles are available; the tour is popular enough that spots fill quickly, so book in advance
- Weather and volcanic conditions can affect visibility and the tour's specific route, so flexibility helps
- Wear layers: temperatures at altitude differ from ground level, and helicopter cabins can be cool
Common Questions About the Circle of Fire Tour
Is this tour safe?
Yes. The video shows professional helicopter operations with onboard cameras and experienced pilots who provide educational narration. The tour has become a well-established offering in Hilo, suggesting strong safety standards and operational history.
How long does the flight last?
The video describes it as "a long flight," indicating a substantial aerial experience. Expect several hours from booking through return, though the video does not specify an exact duration.
What is "Circle of Fire"?
The name refers to the ring of volcanoes around the Big Island. The tour flies over the most dramatic part of this volcanic landscape, centered on Mount Kilauea and its active vents.
Can I see active lava?
The video confirms that gas and steam are still visible coming from vents and fissures, showing ongoing volcanic activity. Recent eruption damage is also visible from the air, though the video does not specify whether flowing lava itself is visible on every tour.
Is this tour worth doing during a Hawaii cruise?
Yes. The video was filmed during a 14-day Hawaii Journeys Cruise on the Carnival Splendor in January 2019, and the creators highly recommend the tour and say they would do it again. It's a memorable shore excursion that feels quite different from typical beach or resort activities.
