Big Island volcano tours are some of the most exciting and educational ventures you can take while visiting Hawaii. There’s no shortage of options when it comes to methods of touring either. Here is a brief overview of what to expect on any given Big Island volcano tour, as well as 3 awesome touring suggestions.

Big Island Volcano Tours: Understanding Kilauea’s History

Mount Kilauea is the volcano you’ll tour if you’re coming to see active lava flows. She is considered one of the world’s most active volcanoes, with 34 eruptions since 1952 alone! Kilauea’s eastern rift zone has been in continuous eruption since January, 1983, and you can see the effects of her flow by viewing what is left of the seaside village, Kalapana, which was destroyed by lava in 1990.

Kilauea is the youngest above-sea Hawaiian volcano and appears as only a bulge on the flanks of Mauna Loa, which is the largest volcano in the world. Until recently, it was thought that Kilauea was an extension of Mauna Loa, but it has since been determined that Kilauea’s ductwork is actually shared with another volcano of the Big Island, Mauna Kea.

What to Expect on Big Island Volcano Tours

When taking Big Island volcano tours, expect to traverse long distances, see active lava flows and learn a lot about volcanic formation and ecosystems. The best volcano tours are paired with interpretive guides who can answer all your questions and help you understand what you are seeing as you go along.

Expect plenty of photo opportunities for scenic vistas, moon-like landscapes and billowing steam. Expect to bring water, sunscreen and a light jacket for protection against winds on the summit.

3 Exciting Ways to Take Big Island Volcano Tours

Three of the best ways to tour the Big Island volcanoes are by helicopter, bus and foot. On helicopter tours you get a chance to see the entire volcanic system from a bird’s eye view, offering unparalleled photo and video opportunities. Bus or van tours give you more opportunities to stop, while still covering a decent amount of ground (the Big Island is BIG!) Touring the volcanoes by foot is best done by camping in Hawaii National Volcano Park, where you can get up close and personal with the vestiges of past eruptions (look for volcanic glass called Pele’s hair and Pele’s tears strewn about the ground.)

Giving yourself the chance to view Kilauea’s destructive majesty by taking Big Island volcano tours is an experience you won’t soon forget. Just be sure to book your seats early – spots fill up fast for these adventurous expeditions!

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