“The earth’s molten heart beats beneath your feet.”
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park isn’t just a place on a map—it’s the living, breathing heart of Hawai’i. From the cracks in the earth to the skies above, the power of volcanoes pulses through this park, shaping everything around it.
This self-guided driving tour gives you the keys to unlock the explosive beauty of Kīlauea, the mysteries of lava flows, and the legends passed down for centuries.
Here’s what awaits you on this fiery journey:
Kīlauea Crater, where you can stand on the edge of an active volcano and feel the earth rumble beneath you.
Sulfur Banks Trail, where steam vents hiss and volcanic gases fill the air with their raw power.
Kīlauea Iki, a once-lava-filled crater, has now transformed into a trail that cuts through history and volcanic wonder.
Thurston Lava Tube is an underground world formed by the same fiery flows that shaped this incredible landscape.
Puʻupuaʻi Overlook, where you’ll hear how volcanoes created these islands and continue to shape them every day.
Pele’s mysterious hair, scattered throughout the park, is a testament to her ancient presence within the land.
The Hōlei Sea Arch, a majestic and fragile formation that the ocean may soon claim, stands as a testament to the eternal dance of water and lava for now.
As you drive, you’ll follow the footsteps of ancient Hawaiians, explore the legends of Pele, and encounter the spirits of the land while learning how volcanic eruptions have shaped not only the landscape but also the culture and history of Hawai’i itself.
Feel the heat of the earth beneath you, the cool ocean breeze, and the pulse of ancient stories with every step you take. This isn’t just a tour, it’s a journey through fire, time, and the soul of the Hawaiian islands.
Disclaimer: Volcanoes are unpredictable, just like your Wi-Fi connection but with way more lava. Don’t forget to charge your phone, just in case.
Note: For all road closure updates and more, please visit the National Park Service website.
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Map
Where To Start?
Tour Start Address: Volcanoes National Park Entrance Station, Volcano, HI 96785
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Without a doubt! Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is unlike any other park you’ll ever visit, offering close-up views of enormous craters and ancient lava flows.
If you’re just hoping to see the sights, a single day should suffice. However, if you’d like to embark on a few of the park’s unique and amazing hikes, you should block out at least a full weekend for your adventure.
You can! The Thurston Lava Tube is a hugely popular attraction where visitors can enter and walk through a 500-year-old lava tube!
It takes around 2-3 hours to drive through the park, though the road isn’t a loop so you’ll also need to budget another hour or so to exit the park. You should also leave plenty of time to stop at overlooks and explore!
Volcanoes National Park sits atop active volcanoes and features craters and lava flows both ancient and shockingly new. You just can’t get an experience like that anywhere else!
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two major volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. Just outside the park are three more major volcanoes, named Mauna Kea, Hualālai, and Kohala.
Late spring and early fall are the best times of year to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You’ll dodge most of the summer crowds while still catching the great weather of Hawaii’s dry season
You can stay inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are only two campgrounds available: Nāmakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki. These fill up fast during the busy season, so planning ahead is important!
Currently, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park does not require reservations to enter. With that said, the NPS is debuting new reservation rules at parks across the country, so it’s best to double-check before you visit.
While you can technically see most of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in a single day, you may want to budget at least two days if you plan to do much hiking while you’re in the park.
The best lava-viewing spots change from time to time, but a good bet is almost always the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. Stop by after sunset for even more impressive views!
Hilo is the closest city to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. There are also a few small towns which are a little closer, such as Keaau.
Hilo International Airport is the closest airport to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but Kona International Airport is larger and generally easier to travel through.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
