Explore the most recent eruptions and historic flows of Kilauea on this Elite Volcano Hike, an approximately 13-hour tour. Your National Park Service certified guide will share facts on the vulcanology, geology, and history of these monstrous wonders, providing in-depth narration on the diverse lava flows and the flora and fauna you will pass.
First, you will travel along Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and most massive volcanoes on Earth. Explore the Kaumana Caves, part of the lava tube system that brought lava to within just 1.5 miles of downtown Hilo in 1881. Peek inside the spectacular cathedral-like space before taking a quick drive through the picturesque town of Hilo, where you will tour the historic waterfront before stopping at the KapohoKine Adventures store to pick up supplies.
We will head to the Mackenzie State Recreational Area, located along the Puna coastline, the site of the historic 2018 eruption. Walk to the historic 2018 Kilauea lava flow, where you will encounter an imposing black lava wall that covered the road, reaching up to 40 feet high. Hike along the now-closed road and then follow the lava flow through the pine forest to the altered coastline and cliffs overlooking the new black sand beach.
Isaac Hale Beach Park is the next stop. Lava icebergs surrounded this popular park, miraculously saving the infrastructure but completely destroying everything around it. Be sure to see the boat launch ramp, which now sits in a pond isolated from the ocean by a natural lava berm. As you observe the steam still rising from the cooling lava while driving through it, you will arrive at the infamous "Fissure 8," which erupted in the heart of the Lelani Estates housing subdivision. Lunch, picnic-style with options like ham, roast beef, or club sandwich, or Cobb salad, is served here at the park if weather permits.
Next, travel to the crown jewel of the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Briefly visit the Kilauea Iki overlook before heading on foot along the paved road toward Keanakakoi. See here the activity from the historic 2018 eruption that buckled the road and caused cracks and sinkholes. You will get a distant view of the Kilauea caldera and the massive Halema'uma'u crater. The tour includes a two-mile walk on partial pavement and a one-mile walk over black lava, plus shorter hikes.
The trail you will take into the caldera has been used for hiking since it was established in 1846. It is approximately two miles round trip that will take you past the famous Sulphur Banks and through ancient tree fern forests. Upon reaching the Kilauea Calder floor, you will see an incredible rock slide to your left, evidence of the 2018 eruption, and the Halema’uma’u crater ahead, which increased in size and drained its lava lake, leaving a massive 300-meter-deep pit. You will enjoy a hearty dinner, with options like Loco Moco or Kalua Pig plate, before returning to your hotel. Entrance fees, picnic lunch, and dinner are all included.