Private Big Island: Volcano, Waterfalls & Black Sand Full-Day Tour

Description

Go beyond the itinerary of a conventional bus tour on an immersive, 100% private journey designed exclusively for your group. Forget the impersonal feel; with your expert guide, you have the flexibility to adjust the pace and spend more time at the stops you love. Your guide will work within the schedule to ensure you experience the best of the island.

What Makes This Private Tour Unique:

  • Tailored Itinerary & Flexible Timing: Your day includes the must-see spots (Akaka Falls, Kīlauea Volcano, Black Sand Beach), but the timing and Hilo Town stops (Candies, Falls, Shopping) are customized to your interests.
  • Guide Suggestions: While the tour follows a defined itinerary, if time allows, your guide may suggest optional photo stops or slight detours to enhance your experience.
  • Intimate Experience: Connect deeply with the island's rich history and profound significance as your expert guide shares in-depth insights and compelling anecdotes in the comfort of a private vehicle.

Featured Stops:

  • Akaka Falls State Park: Walk through a lush rainforest to view the magnificent, 442-foot cascade.
  • Custom Hilo Exploration: Flexible stop to choose from Rainbow Falls, Big Island Candies, or Bayfront shopping.
  • Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (HVNP): Explore Kīlauea Overlook, Steam Vents, and walk through the massive Nāhuku (Thurston) Lava Tube.
  • Kaʻū Coffee Farm: Sample award-winning coffee and learn about local production.
  • Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach: Relax on the jet-black sand and look for basking Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu).

Included

  • Full-Day Guided Tour: Enjoy a complete day of exploration with an expert, English-speaking guide.
  • Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip travel in an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter 12-15 passenger vehicle, including convenient pickup and drop-off arrangements.
  • Intimate Group Size: Experience the island with a small group of 12 passengers or less for a personalized feel.
  • All Fees Covered: Includes all parking and park entry fees.
  • Delicious Meals & Refreshments: Savor a delightful picnic lunch with a special local dessert, enjoy a unique coffee tasting, and stay hydrated with ice-cold bottled water, soda, and other non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Snacks: Keep energized with included snacks throughout your journey.
  • Photography & Comfort Essentials: Plenty of scenic stops for stunning pictures, plus umbrellas, sunscreen, bug spray, and flashlights are all provided.

Excluded

  • Driver Gratuity: A 20-25% tip for excellent service is customary but is not included in the tour price.
  • Meals Beyond Lunch: Only the provided picnic lunch and included snacks/refreshments are covered; any additional meals or specialized dietary items are not included.
  • Souvenirs and Personal Shopping: Any purchases made at stops like Big Island Candies or the Ka'u Coffee Farm are at the guest's expense.

Know before you go

Recommended Packing List

  • Warm Layers: A warm jacket, sweater, or cover-up is essential, as temperatures can vary drastically across the island, especially at higher elevations or in the evening.
  • Rain Gear: While we provide communal rain gear and umbrellas, we strongly recommend bringing your own personal, waterproof outer layers for individual comfort and fit.
  • Mandatory Footwear: Sturdy, completely closed-toe shoes (sneakers or hiking boots) are MANDATORY for walking on uneven terrain and lava fields. Guests wearing open-toed shoes (sandals, flip-flops) may be excluded from walking portions of the tour.
  • Hydration & Snacks: Stay hydrated! Bring a reusable water bottle (refills available in the van). Feel free to bring any personal snacks you prefer beyond the provided lunch and refreshments.
  • Camera, Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Don't forget your camera to capture the incredible landscapes, and bring sunscreen and sunglasses for protection during daytime exploration.

Important Volcanic Safety Information

The dynamic environment of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park may present unique conditions, including airborne volcanic ash or 'Pele's hair' (fine, glass-like fibers), which may cause skin and eye irritation. As a precautionary measure, we strongly recommend packing:

  • Long Pants
  • Long-Sleeved Top or Jacket
  • A Hat (To protect hair & scalp)
  • An Extra Set of Clothes (In case you need to change due to exposure)

Location:

Supplier: Wayfind Hawaii