Mauna Loa

Mauna Loa

Mauna Loa: Our most recommended tours and activities

Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight

Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight

Take a helicopter ride over ever-changing scenery at Volcano National Park with this tour from Hilo. Journey over black sand beaches where lava once flowed into the sea. Take off from Hilo and fly directly to Volcano National Park. See the caldera of the Kilauea volcano. Admire the Pu'uo'o' volcanic cone. Snap pictures of the massive volcanos Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa in the distance. Discover new lava fields that are forming and go over old lava fields. View how waterfalls create a deep blue pools amid jungle greenery. All site specific areas are weather dependent

MaunaKea Stellar Explorer From Kona

MaunaKea Stellar Explorer From Kona

For an out-of-this-world experience, check out Maunakea Stellar Explorer. The in-house stellar explorers are the best and most experienced in Hawaii, with one having created the Mauna Kea Visitor’s Center and operated it for a decade. Staff have written noted articles and reviews for well-known astronomy magazines and have worked at world-class observatories. Next, you’ll travel across Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and most massive volcanoes on Earth. Your National Park Service trained guide will discuss the volcanology, geology, and history of these monstrous wonders, as well as providing in-depth narration on the various lava flows and flora and fauna that you’ll be passing by. While you’re taking in the breathtaking terrestrial views, your guide will prepare some heavenly views just as stunning. Setting up a state of the art solar telescope for your viewing pleasure, your specially trained guide will let you safely watch the sun come alive in true color with vibrant solar flares, sunspots, prominences, and any other current activity, weather permitting. Lastly, your guide will take you to one of the preferred locations on Mauna Kea for nighttime stargazing. You’ll observe deep sky and planetary objects through a large aperture Dobsonian telescope under one of the darkest and most pristine skies on planet Earth. The Dobsonian telescopes are a true purist’s experience to view the night sky. Their fast focal ratio enables you to see sprawling wide field views of objects that simply aren’t possible with the types of telescopes used by other tours. Depending on what is visible in the current sky and weather permitting, you’ll observe galaxies, nebula, star clusters, planets, double star systems, the moon, and much more; all the highlights and showpiece objects like you’ve never seen before. 

From Kona-Volcanoes & waterfall tour in a small group

From Kona-Volcanoes & waterfall tour in a small group

Explore enchanting sights on the Big Island during this shore excursion exploring Volcanoes National Park, waterfall, black sand beach and more You'll make stops at Kilauea Crater and Thurston Lave Tube, plus Rainbow Falls and several other Hawaii highlights. Whether you're a first time visitor or returning to the Big Island for another look, this tour is right for you. Layers of lava stretch over moonscapes, collect in calderas, and put on an awesome show. A guide, park entrance fees, and round-trip port transport are included. Maximum tour size : 5 persons

Big Island: Full-Day Sightseeing & Waterfalls Adventure Tour

Big Island: Full-Day Sightseeing & Waterfalls Adventure Tour

Explore Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, swim at Kulanipia private waterfalls, visit majestic Waipio Valley Lookout, and the stunning Akaka Falls on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii on this full day of fun and exciting adventure. Discover the island’s diverse natural beauty, including multiple waterfalls, lush rain forests, and rugged sea cliffs as your guide shares history and legends. The morning begins with a visit to the majestic Waipio Valley Lookout after passing through the famous Parker Ranch. Marvel at the stunning views of the rugged sea cliffs drop into the sparkling blue ocean and mile-long black sand beach. A drive along the scenic Hamakua Coast will greet you with a burst of energy as the splendid waterfalls await – capture the famous Akaka Falls while you hear the unrivaled power of water coursing down hundreds of feet. Continue to a garden nestled in the scenic Onomea Bay – Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Throughout this garden valley, nature trails meander through a true tropical rainforest, crossing bubbling streams, passing several beautiful waterfalls, and the exciting ocean vistas along the rugged Pacific Coast. This highly acclaimed garden allows you to take up-close shots of rare and exotic flora-over 2000 species of exotic tropical plants and orchids in a tranquil setting. In the afternoon, you will escape the crowd and get to swim under the 120 feet tall Kulaniapia private waterfall, Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall, to cool down and relax when river conditions permit. The adventure ends with the return to Kona or Kohala Coast via a spectacular drive on Saddle Road, a highway nestled between the world’s tallest sea mountain Mauna Kea and the world’s most massive mountain Mauna Loa.

Big Island: Private Island Circle Tour with Lunch and Dinner

Big Island: Private Island Circle Tour with Lunch and Dinner

Discover the beauty and grace of the Big Island of Hawaii on a private tour. Explore some of the island's most unique and idyllic locations, including the Kona coast, Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Hilo's iconic waterfalls, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Sit back and relax as all meals and drinks (excluding alcoholic ones) are included throughout your day. Make your way to your first stop: the South Kona Coffee Farm for a tour and coffee sampling. Travel south along the striking Kona coast and absorb the breathtaking views of lush vegetation and coastline. Listen to your guide describe the cultural history of the area as well as the local flora and fauna. Then, visit the southernmost bakery in the United States, Punalu‘u Bakery. World renown for their sweet bread, malasadas, and other delicious treats. Enjoy a malasada and a coffee or tea. Continue your tour to one of the prettiest black sand beaches in all of the Hawaiian Islands, Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach. Relax with black sand between your toes while listening to the wind move through the palms. Keep a look out for green and hawksbill sea turtles that frequent the beach. Next, make your way to the the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. This iconic park encompasses the summit of two of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. Explore the main attractions in the park including the Thurston Lava Tube, Chain of Craters Road, and a nature walk along the Halema‘uma‘u Crater. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beauty of the park before embarking on the next leg of your adventure. From the park, venture up to Hilo to visit the picturesque Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls State Park. Both waterfalls are a sight to behold. Beautiful falls combined with lush vegetation make these stops photo-worthy. Then, drive along the 50-mile stretch of the Hamakua Coast with its hidden waterfalls, tropical rainforest, and lush green valleys. Described as one of the most beautiful locations in the state, it’s well worth the scenic drive. Arrive at Waipio Valley in the late afternoon. Enjoy the sprawling views as your guide explains the rich history of the area. Continue your ride to marvel at the bright sunset views of Waimea. To get there, travel through Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country and take in this historic area with its rolling, green pastures, the home to cattle, cowboys, and one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States; Parker Ranch. Enjoy a local and authentic dinner in Waimea where surf and turf is a definite menu staple, before returning to your hotel.

From Big island-Volcanoes & waterfall tour in a small group

From Big island-Volcanoes & waterfall tour in a small group

Explore enchanting sights on the Big Island during this shore excursion exploring Volcanoes National Park, waterfall, black sand beach and more You'll make stops at Kilauea Crater and Thurston Lave Tube, plus Rainbow Falls and several other Hawaii highlights. Whether you're a first time visitor or returning to the Big Island for another look, this tour is right for you. Layers of lava stretch over moonscapes, collect in calderas, and put on an awesome show. A guide, park entrance fees, and round-trip port transport are included. Maximum tour size : 5 persons

Hawaii: All-Inclusive Volcanoes and Waterfalls Private Tour

Hawaii: All-Inclusive Volcanoes and Waterfalls Private Tour

Following pick up at your place of lodging, we travel over Saddle Road between two of the largest volcanoes on Earth, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, to the lush east coast of the Big Island. Our first stop is at the iconic Wailuku River State Park and we will take in the majestic beauty of Rainbow Falls & Boiling Pots. From there, we will continue to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, this iconic park encompasses the summit of two of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. It’s home to critically endangered wildlife and some of the most unique geological, biological, and cultural landscapes on earth. Upon entering the park, enjoy a walk along the rim of Halema‘uma‘u Crater for unique views of the current eruption. Also, we will stop and see the natural steam vents at Wahinekapu. From there we will travel down the Chain of Craters road to the Thurston lava tube. Experience this massive lava tube which is 600 feet long and over 20 feet tall in some places. Depending on what your group would like to do and see, additional stops in the Park can include Ha'akulamanu (Sulfur Banks), Mauanulu lava fields, Pauahi Crater, Holei Sea Arch, and Pu'uloa petroglyph field. These fascinating locations are fun to explore in your Big Island volcano and waterfalls tour.

From Oahu: Big Island Volcano Adventure

From Oahu: Big Island Volcano Adventure

Discover the dramatic landscapes and rich volcanic history of the Big Island on this immersive full-day tour. After a short flight from Oahu to Hilo, your expert guide will lead you on an unforgettable journey through Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, sharing fascinating insights into the island’s unique geology and culture. Your adventure begins at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, home to the legendary Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Stand at the edge of Halema‘uma‘u Crater, a massive caldera that continues to reshape itself after the 2018 eruption. Feel the heat rising from the Steam Vents, where groundwater meets underground lava flows. Step into history as you walk through Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), an ancient underground tunnel once filled with flowing lava, surrounded by a lush rainforest canopy. Next, take a scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road, where lava fields stretch toward the ocean, showcasing the island’s ever-changing volcanic terrain. Along the way, witness dramatic sea cliffs, old lava flows, and breathtaking coastal viewpoints. After a picnic lunch in the park, continue to the stunning Hāmākua Coast. Walk through a lush rainforest filled with bamboo, orchids, and ferns at ʻAkaka Falls State Park, where a 442-foot waterfall plunges into a misty gorge. This breathtaking natural wonder is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Hawai‘i. Your journey continues in Hilo Town, where you’ll visit the picturesque Rainbow Falls, named for the colorful mist that appears in the morning sunlight. Drive along historic Banyan Drive, lined with towering trees planted by celebrities, and explore the serene Lili‘uokalani Gardens, a beautifully landscaped Japanese-style park with stunning views of Hilo Bay. Conclude your day at a black sand beach, where the island’s volcanic origins are on full display as waves crash against the jet-black shoreline. After a full day of exploration, return to Hilo Airport for your short flight back to Oahu, bringing home incredible memories of the Big Island’s breathtaking landscapes.

Hawaii: Private All-Inclusive High Country Adventure

Hawaii: Private All-Inclusive High Country Adventure

Hidden, Rare and Unique: A One of a Kind Adventure! Discover the natural beauty of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on this 4x4 adventure day trip. Look for rare plants and birds in Mauna Kea forest reserve with your naturalist guide. Admire views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on a private picnic.  Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation and hop aboard a comfortable, fully customized, Toyota Sequoia that truly is a rugged yet luxurious 4X4 adventure vehicle. Travel on a road built through lava flows in a Martian-like landsacpe as you explore the northern flank of the largest volcano on earth, Mauna Loa. Take in the sights of from the Mauna Loa Observatory which has been recording atmospheric changes since the 1950’s and boasts the longest record of direct measurements of CO2 in the atmosphere. Explore the rare and lesser known high elevation dry forest around the slopes of Mauna Kea volcano. Search for the endangered and endemic Hawaiian Honey creeper the Palila (Loxioides bailleui), the last finch-billed honey creeper in the main Hawaiian Islands. Witness other rare and endemic birds such as the Hawai‘i ‘Amakihi, ‘Apapane, Hawaiian hawk, and the Hawaiian short-eared owl. Hawaii has some of the best birding opportunities in the world due to the evolution of the islands and the presence of the rare bird species. Go for a guided walk through the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve and learn about the unique plants and animals found in the area. Get a better view of birds with the use of provided Nikon ProStaff binoculars. Marvel at Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa as you enjoy a delicious picnic dinner in the sub-alpine dry forest.

Oahu to Big Island Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour

Oahu to Big Island Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour

On our Big Island Volcano Adventure enjoy the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - Visitor Center, an ancient lava tube, Kilauea Iki Crater and more. Tour Highlights Richardson Black sand Beach – is the only beach in the Hilo area with black sand Historic Banyan Drive – Banyan trees bear the names of famous people who planted them. Famous names include President Theodore Roosevelt, Babe Ruth, Richard Nixon to name a few. Still thrive along Banyan Drive, having grown into a thick canopy, makes it popular for walking and driving. Liliuokalani Gardens: The park’s site was given by Queen Liliʻuokalani, and lies southeast of downtown Hilo, on the Waiakea Peninsula in Hilo Bay Rainbow Falls – most beautiful waterfall with never ending rainbow. Hilo Bay : Hilo Bay is a large bay located on the eastern coast of the island of Hawaiʻi. Wailuku River State Park : Tale of Hina comes to alive Rainbow Falls State Park. Waterfall known for it’s never ending rainbows. Volcanoes National Park – Admission included. Established in 1916, is a United States National Park located in the U.S. State of Hawaii on the island of Hawaii. It encompasses two active volcanoes: Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa. Volcanic Steam Vents : Ground water seeps down to the hot volcanic rocks in this area and returns to the surface as steam. While standing at the Steam Vents, take a good look around. The area between the caldera’s edge and outer cliffs of Kīlauea Caldera is a treeless plain. Visitor Center Sulfur Banks Kilauea Iki Crater : The most active volcano crater in the world. Chain of Craters Road Mount Kilauea : is a currently active shield volcano in the Hawaiian Islands, and the most active of the five

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What people are saying about Mauna Loa

Overall rating

4.7
(107 reviews)

Dramma and Barbil Tour Guide Experience in Hilo, Hawaii I From the moment the tour began, it was clear we were in for an unforgettable experience. Her deep knowledge of the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty was remarkable, and they had a way of bringing every story to life with passion and enthusiasm. Our guide took us to breathtaking spots that were both iconic and off-the-beaten-path, giving us a unique perspective on the Big Island. Highlights included exploring the lush rainforest, walking along the stunning black sand beaches, and marveling at the volcanic landscapes. Every stop was carefully curated, and the guide’s insightful commentary made each location even more special. What stood out most was her genuine warmth and aloha spirit. She was patient, attentive, and always made sure we felt included and comfortable. Go w Dramma and Barbil Tours. Bring her Trader Joe’s cookies and tell her Suzanne & Daryl said hi!

Our Tour Guide Sam is very professional, he set up telescope for us, letting us see several stunning stars: Saturn, Sirius, Cassiopeia, Galaxy…etc. The experience is very good, I never seen stars so clear and Sam also provided the explanation about stars. Highly recommend join this tour!

Absolutely amazing! The staff were great. Despite the fact that I was sea sick, we absolutely enjoyed the experience.

Very good, if you are on the island it is well worth it.

Staff was very helpful and quite affable and friendly.