Big Island Helicopter Tours

What to Expect on This Big Island Helicopter Tour

The Big Island Volcano Deluxe Tour with Sunshine Helicopters is a scenic flight lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes that showcases some of Hawaii's most dramatic natural landscapes. The video documents a Big Island helicopter tour that combines two of the island's most striking geological features: the active volcanic terrain of Kilauea and the lush, waterfall-rich Kohala mountains. This is an aerial experience designed for travelers who want to witness Hawaii's raw power and beauty without hiking or ground-level travel constraints.

If you're drawn to volcanoes, tropical scenery, and the kind of perspectives only achievable from the air, this tour is worth serious consideration. The experience suits both first-time visitors curious about Hawaii's volcanic geology and experienced travelers seeking an adrenaline-fueled scenic adventure. The flight combines geological wonder with tropical beauty, making it appealing across different travel interests.

Main Sights and Experiences on the Tour

• Active lava vents of Kilauea volcano viewed from above, showing the raw thermal and geological power of Hawaii's most famous volcano
• Dozens of waterfalls cascading through the verdant tropical valleys of the Kohala mountains
• Hidden valleys accessible only by air, revealing landscape features most ground-bound visitors never encounter
• Extended aerial perspective of the Big Island's volcanic and tropical terrain over nearly two hours in the air

Key Details Before You Book Your Flight

• Total flight duration is 1 hour and 45 minutes, providing extended time over the landscape rather than a quick scenic dash
• The tour operates through Sunshine Helicopters, an established operator offering this specific route
• Weather and volcanic conditions can affect visibility and exact routing, so flexibility on dates is advisable
• Booking should be arranged through Hawaii Discount, which coordinates the tour and may offer package rates
• Wear layers and bring a camera with a good battery, as extended flight time means extended photo opportunities
• Arrive with an empty stomach or light meal to minimize motion sensitivity during the flight

Common Questions About the Volcano Deluxe Tour

What makes this tour different from other Big Island helicopter experiences?

This specific tour combines two major natural attractions—active Kilauea lava vents and the Kohala waterfalls—in a single flight, rather than focusing on one location. The 1 hour and 45 minute duration gives you extended time in the air to absorb both volcanic and tropical landscapes.

Is this tour safe for people who are nervous about flying?

Helicopter tours operate under strict FAA safety regulations. However, if you're anxious about small aircraft, consider discussing this with the operator before booking. The extended duration means you'll have time to acclimate during the flight rather than a brief, intense experience.

Can I see active lava flowing during the tour?

The tour specifically includes views of Kilauea's lava vents. Whether you see actively flowing lava depends on current volcanic activity and weather conditions. These change seasonally and year to year, so confirm current conditions with the operator when booking.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear layers, as temperatures change with altitude. Bring a secure camera with a full battery, as 105 minutes of flight time offers many photo opportunities. Avoid loose items that could shift during the flight, and consider motion sickness medication if you're prone to it.

When is the best time of day to book this tour?

Morning flights typically offer clearer skies and better photography light. Time of day impacts both visibility and glare on your camera lens, so early bookings often deliver better results.