Guided Tours

Big Island: Hidden Craters Hike

Duration

5 hrs

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

Venture through native Hawaiian cloud forests and volcanic craters on exclusive Hualalai Volcano trails.

Stand at the edge of massive craters for panoramic views over 5,000 feet above the Kona coastline.

Explore a wild lava tube, with a segment accessible for casual adventurers in your small group.

Guides share insights into local history, culture, and the island’s unique volcanic landscape.

All hiking essentials provided—snacks, refreshments, gear, and expert guide—so you can focus on the adventure.

Small group (max 10 guests) guided hike on Hualalai Volcano

Access to private forest lands

Expert interpretive guide

Snacks & refreshments

Gear provided:

Trekking poles

Rain gear

Day packs

Sunscreen

Bug repellant

Hotel pickup & drop-off

Gratuities

Personal expenses or souvenirs

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Venture onto the upper slopes of Hualalai Volcano for a guided 3–4 mile hike through native cloud forests, volcanic craters, and wild lava tubes.

Getting started

Begin your adventure at the Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters, just a short drive from Kailua-Kona. Meet your expert guide, check your gear, and join your small group (max 10 guests) for a quick orientation before heading to the exclusive trailhead.

What to expect

Hualalai Volcano

Hualalai is one of Hawaii’s most significant volcanoes, rising over 5,000 feet above the Kona coastline. This guided hike offers rare access to upper slopes and areas not open to the general public, revealing the island’s volcanic origins and unique ecology.

Features

Restricted access trails: Walk through untouched native cloud forests and volcanic fissures on paths limited to a select few, highlighting the island’s natural heritage.

Volcanic craters: Stand on the edge of massive craters for panoramic views over the Kona coast, gaining insight into the region’s dramatic geological history.

Lava tube exploration: Safely climb through a wild lava tube segment, accessible for casual adventurers and offering a glimpse into the island’s volcanic past.

Expert-guided insights: Learn about local history, culture, and geology from knowledgeable guides, enhancing your understanding of Hawaii’s landscape.

Sustainable hiking: All necessary gear is provided, and the tour emphasizes leave-no-trace practices and the use of reusable materials.

What to bring

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven terrain.

Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the hike.

Pack a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt to stay comfortable in cool or damp conditions.

Use personal sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Bring along any essential personal medications.

What’s not allowed

Pets are not allowed, with the exception of registered service animals.

Consumption of alcohol, drugs, or participation while intoxicated is prohibited.

Smoking and open flames are strictly forbidden along the trail.

Discarding trash is not permitted—guests are asked to follow leave-no-trace ethics.

Accessibility

This hike is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Participants must be capable of hiking 3–4 miles on uneven, rocky ground with up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain and loss.

Expect moderate exertion with some steep slopes and entry into a lava tube featuring earthen steps and rope support.

Additional information

Recommended for guests aged 8 years and above.

The tour highlights eco-conscious and sustainable practices.

Tours begin at the Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters, just a short drive from Kailua-Kona.

While Hualalai Volcano remains active, there are no signs of current volcanic activity.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.

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