Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Traveling to Hawaii and looking for a way to see its incredible volcanic landscapes from a fresh perspective? The Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour offers just that—an exciting 50-minute flight over the Big Island’s most active and scenic areas. This tour is a popular choice for those eager to witness the island’s fiery craters, cascading waterfalls, and rugged coastlines without the need for a strenuous hike or a long drive.

What caught our eye about this experience? First, the personalized group size of only 6 travelers makes it feel more intimate—no crowded helicopters here. Second, the expert pilot commentary combined with noise-canceling headsets means you won’t miss a single detail about the landscapes below. However, a potential consideration is that the cost ($482.90) is on the higher side, but many find that the views and experience justify it. If you’re someone who loves adventure, learns from guides, and enjoys seeing the island’s natural beauty from above, this tour could be just your thing.

That said, this tour might not be ideal if you’re sensitive to helicopter noise or if poor weather cancels flights. It’s best suited for travelers who want a personalized, scenic, and educational experience with a focus on natural beauty and volcanic activity. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to check off an unforgettable Hawaii experience, this helicopter ride offers a lot for those who appreciate a mix of adventure and education.

Key Points

• Limited group size of 6 passengers for a more relaxed and personalized experience
• Expert pilot guides provide informative commentary during the flight
• Stunning views of Kilauea, Mauna Loa, waterfalls, and lava flows inaccessible by ground
• Flight duration around 50 minutes, offering a solid overview without fatigue
• Weather-dependent activity, with options for rescheduling or full refund if canceled
• Cost reflects the premium experience and exclusivity, but many say it’s worth the price

A Closer Look at the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying over Hawaii’s volcanic landscape, this tour delivers exactly that. From the moment you arrive at Hilo Airport, you’re stepping into an experience designed to offer a combination of breathtaking visuals and engaging narration. The Airbus Eco-Star helicopter, with its forward-facing seats, promises panoramic 180-degree views, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

What the Flight Looks Like

You’ll start your adventure by donning noise-canceling Bose headsets that allow clear communication with your pilot. This feature is a real highlight—being able to hear insightful commentary about what you’re seeing makes the experience more meaningful. The flight takes you high above Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll see active volcanoes like Kilauea and Mauna Loa. These are volcanoes that are difficult or impossible to access by vehicle, making the helicopter tour a rare opportunity to witness nature’s power up close.

Your pilot will point out waterfalls, Halemaumau Crater, and the coastlines of Hamakua. If luck is on your side and the volcanoes are erupting or glowing, you’ll get a spectacular view of their fiery displays. Many reviews mention how, even with cloudy weather or rain, the views are still impressive due to the landscape’s rugged beauty.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a birds-eye view of Hilo Town, giving a sense of the island’s history and settlement. Next, you’ll glide along the shoreline of the volcanic region, where the constantly changing terrain showcases the island’s ongoing growth through lava flows. One of the most compelling parts is spotting freshly formed lava fields and historic lava flows—these scenes tell the story of Hawaii’s fiery birth.

Throughout the flight, the pilot’s commentary enriches your experience. For instance, reviews mention how Chewy provided detailed and engaging information, making the flight not just visually stunning but also educational. Several travelers appreciate how the pilot’s knowledge helps them understand the landscape and volcanic activity better.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Multiple reviews highlight the stunning scenery—flying over waterfalls, craters, and coastlines is unique compared to ground-based excursions. Many mention the professionalism of the crew and how they made the experience enjoyable and smooth. One traveler notes, “The pilot was quite knowledgeable and provided a lot of information,” confirming that guides do make a difference.

The size of the group (max six people) is a huge plus, making the experience feel more personal. No long lines or noisy crowds—just a small group sharing this awe-inspiring view. This arrangement is especially appreciated by travelers who want a more tailored experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of $482.90 per person is definitely an investment. When you consider the personalized attention, expert narration, and exclusive views, many find it to be good value for a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. The tour covers about 50 minutes in the air, which is enough time to see a good variety of sights without it feeling rushed.

You’ll want to arrive 45 minutes early for check-in, safety briefing, and seat allocation. Remember, if you or a companion weigh over 240 lbs, adding an adjacent seat at half price is required for safety and balance. This is something to plan for ahead of time, especially if traveling as a couple or with friends.

The activity is weather-dependent—poor weather or cloud cover can lead to cancellations, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund. Many reviews point out that weather cancellations are a reality, so flexibility is key.

Real-World Experiences and Honest Feedback

While the majority of reviews are glowing, some mention issues like engine vibrations or overwhelming noise. One review describes the helicopter blades as “out of balance,” which caused shaking and noise. This isn’t typical, but it’s worth knowing that experiences can vary slightly depending on conditions.

In terms of value, most appreciate the professionalism of the crew and the quality of the visuals. The knowledgeable pilot and clear commentary elevate the experience from just a scenic flight to an educational adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter tour is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity from above. It suits travelers who are comfortable with helicopter rides, understand the weather might affect plans, and appreciate personalized small-group experiences. Because it’s a relatively short flight, it’s best for those who want a quick but impactful glimpse of the island’s volcanic landscape.

It’s also a fantastic option for special occasions or bucket list trips—the views and education make it memorable. However, it’s less suited for travelers who are particularly sensitive to noise or motion sickness.

Final Thoughts

The Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour offers a rare opportunity to see Hawaii’s volcanic scenery from a vantage point few ground tours can match. The combination of stunning visuals, expert narration, and a small-group setting makes it a premium experience that many travelers find worthwhile. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but if your goal is to see the island’s active volcanoes and rugged landscapes with minimal hassle, it’s hard to beat.

This tour is best for those who want a personal, educational, and breathtaking adventure that elevates their Hawaii visit beyond the usual beaches and waterfalls. It’s a memorable way to witness the power and beauty of the Big Island’s volcanic activity, leaving you with stories that will last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 23 months and younger are considered lap children and can join for free, but you should check with the provider about safety and comfort for young kids.

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight duration is approximately 50 minutes, giving enough time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably and consider sunglasses or a hat for sun protection, but avoid large bags or selfie sticks as they are not allowed onboard.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, this tour offers free cancellation and will be canceled if weather conditions are poor. You’ll be offered a rebooking or refund.

What do I do if I am over 240 lbs?
An additional seat at half price is required for safety and balance; please arrange this after booking.

Are the views better in the morning or afternoon?
Both options are available, and the best choice depends on your schedule. Weather conditions can vary, so check with the provider.

Will I get photos or videos during the flight?
In-flight video and photo packages are available for purchase after the flight. Cameras and large equipment are not allowed in the helicopter.

If you’re craving a truly unique view of Hawaii’s volcanoes and landscapes, this helicopter tour offers an experience that’s both scenic and insightful. It’s not just about the photos, but about seeing the island’s fiery heart from a vantage point most travelers only dream of.