Hiking in Big Island

The Big Island, also known as the Island of Hawai’i, is the largest of the Hawaiian chain that stretches across the Central Pacific. Filled with colorful beaches, lush rainforests and two active volcanos, the island is a snorkeling and hiking haven.

Take a hiking tour on the Big Island through dozens of trails for all skill levels and immerse yourself in the incredible wildlife of Hawai’i.

You will find below everything you need to know about hiking tours, one of the most worthwhile outdoor activities on the Big Island.

What are the best hiking tours on the Big Island?

Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa hiking tour

On this breathtaking hiking excursion, you will climb two of the tallest and biggest volcanos on Earth, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Your National Park Service guide will discuss the fascinating geological history, as well as information on the bubbling hot lava and surrounding plant life.

From there, you’ll visit Kaumana Caves of Hilo and the Puna Coast, where the historic eruption of 2018 took place. Tour Isaac Hale Beach Park, grab a picnic lunch and finish out the day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a look at the crater.

Big Island Volcanoes National Park hiking tour

This tour focuses on the spectacular beauty of the Volcanoes National Park. You’ll adventure through Hawaiian forests and dramatic craters before arriving at the edge of an active volcano. Observe the caldera, volcanic walls and piping hot center where lava still flows.

You’ll cross through the thriving rainforest that opens up to jaw-dropping views of a solidified lava lake. Finish out your excursion with a visit to the Thurston Lava Tube, a cave formed with flowing lava.

Big Island hidden craters hiking tour

Opt for an off-the-beaten-path crater expedition to live life on the wild side while on the Big Island. Climb aboard a four-wheel-drive vehicle and venture up the side of Hualalai Volcano.

You will rise to an elevation of almost 2,000 meters, where you’ll travel by foot to examine rainforests, craters and the lava tube. Hike through the Kona Coast State Park to finish out your trip with outstanding views of the shoreline.

Big Island bird watch hiking tour

Calling all bird watchers for this informative and interesting over 6-kilometer hike through the Big Island. You’ll begin by riding on a four-wheel-drive vehicle to Hakalau Forest.

This lush destination is home to some of the rarest plant and animal species worldwide. Your experienced guide will point out endangered birds that have made the rainforest their home.

Big Island twilight hiking tour

This 12-hour excursion extends well into the nighttime, allowing visitors to see the incredible Volcanoes National Park light up with an amber glow. During the afternoon, you’ll explore the vast area filled with steam vents, lunar craters and lava tubes.

Finish out the evening with the wonder of Pele’s eruption in the Halemaumau Crater. Marvel at the red eruption as it illuminates the night sky.

Private Big Island hiking tour

Select a private hiking trip through the Big Island Volcanoes National Park for a more intimate look at the varied terrain of over 10 kilometers. Admire the vibrant flora and fauna of the forest, and the phenomenal Kilauea Iki Crater with a look inside at the volcanic walls.

Stop by for a look at the ever-popular Thurston Lava Tub and enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch provided by your professional tour guide.

Are there any Big Island hiking tour combos?

Big Island hiking tour plus doors-off helicopter ride

Embark on an aeronautical adventure with a helicopter tour on the Big Island over Kohala Coast. Take off on a stimulating ride along the shoreline where you’ll catch sight of waterfalls and stunning sandy beaches.

You’ll fly right over Mokupuku Island before landing in the remote Guava Forest for a short hike.

Big Island hiking and bike tour

This self-guided tour will take you on a triple adventure with a hiking route, a bike tour and a snorkeling experience as well. You will have 6 hours to ride your e-bike rental and will be given as snorkeling gear and maps with all the best spots to explore.

How much do hiking tours on the Big Island cost?

Guided hiking tours of the Big Island in Hawaii vary in price according to the number of stops and the length of the excursion.

For a trip that includes all the major landmarks such as the two massive volcanoes Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, the Kaumana Caves of Hilo, Isaac Hale Beach Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park you can expect to pay between US$200 and US$300 per person.

If you’re hoping to focus your day trip on the Volcanoes National Park and its many facets prepare to pay about US$200 per person. For a hiking tour that discovers the hidden craters of the island, you can plan on spending between US$150 and US$200 per person.

Bird-lovers who opt for a guided hike through the abundant Hakalau Forest will pay about US$250 per person to be immersed in some of the rarest plant and animal species known to man.

A tour that includes a stop at the Halemaumau Crater to watch Pele’s eruption at twilight will also cost around US$250 per person.

For a private hiking tour to the Big Island’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, prepare to spend anywhere from US$200 to US$400 per person with the more expensive options including extra stops or meals.

What is included in the price?

The cost of a hiking tour on the Big Island always includes detailed information from a professional guide. Most tours will include either a breakfast or lunch option, with a twilight tour offering a buffet dinner for guests. Pricier tours will offer hotel pickup and drop-off though most will provide a meeting spot where the trip will begin.

On longer hikes, you can expect tour guides to be well-stocked with beverages such as water and soda to keep you hydrated for plenty of exploration. Many tours will also include walking sticks to assist with difficult terrain, day packs for your belongings and rain gear in case of stormy weather.

Nighttime tours will also provide flashlights, while daytime trips will supply sunscreen and bug repellant. Bird-watching hikes will include binoculars.

Tours that stop at multiple destinations throughout the day will include transportation, typically by four-wheel-drive vehicle. Most excursions that pay a visit to the Volcanoes National Park or private caves will include the entrance fees in the total price.

Where is the starting point for hiking trips on the Big Island?

The Hawaii Forest & Trail Kona Headquarters is a popular meeting spot for hiking tours on the Big Island that explore the craters. Some full-day hiking tours offer the choice of either Dolphin Bay, Hilo Port or Hilo airport.

Most hikes that focus on the Volcanoes National Park will begin at Kilauea Visitor Center, where you’ll head off on a four-wheel-drive vehicle for your adventure.

Queen’s Marketplace is another centralized option for a hike through the Hakalau Forest. Private tours and some group trips will include pickup and drop-off in the price.

How long does it last?

Trips that focus on the craters, steam vents and lava tubes can be completed in a half-day trip that lasts somewhere between 1.5 and 5 hours. Longer treks will take anywhere from 6 to 9 hours depending on the stops made along the way.

Full-day excursions will last around 12 or 13 hours, but will include visits to at least four major landmarks.

When is the best time to go hiking on the Big Island?

Morning is the best time for a hiking tour on the Big Island, as the sun grows quite hot in the afternoon and can cause overheating. Alternatively, you may choose a twilight tour that will begin after the hottest part of the day has passed to enjoy the cool evening breeze.

Plan your hiking tour for the beginning of your trip, so you can get a lay of the land while learning about the fascinating natural phenomena across the island.

What happens in case of bad weather?

If the weather conditions become extreme and the tour must be canceled, you may select a different date or receive a full refund. Most Big Island hiking tours happens rain or shine.

Which other outdoor activities can be done on the Big Island?

• Snorkeling
• Boat tours
• Manta ray snorkeling
• Mauna Kea stargazing
• Whale watching
• Zip lining
• Dolphin watching
• Scuba diving

Travel tips

• Make sure to clarify the meeting location at the time of ticket purchase.
• Remember that most tours are not wheelchair accessible, as hiking on the Big Island will cross difficult terrain.
• Wear appropriate shoes and clothing for your outdoor adventure, as many hiking tours last for over 5 hours and include a lot of walking
• Make sure to choose a difficulty level that matches your own preference before booking a hiking tour.