Fissure 8 Tour – Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Discovery

If you’re headed to the Big Island and want to see some of the island’s most iconic volcanic sights, the Fissure 8 Tour offered by Aloha Aina Tours is worth considering. This guided day trip packs in visits to the 2018 Klauea eruption site, Volcanoes National Park, and scenic Hilo, making it a well-rounded experience for those eager to learn about Hawaii’s fiery landscape.

What makes this tour stand out are the knowledgeable guides who don’t just show you the sights but share stories and insights that deepen your understanding, and the stunning views of volcanic activity and waterfalls that feel almost surreal. On the flip side, the tour’s full-day pace means it’s a busy schedule, and if you’re looking for a super relaxed experience, it might feel a little rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see key volcanic highlights with a knowledgeable guide and don’t mind a full day on the go. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a mix of natural wonders and cultural stories, making it a memorable part of any Big Island visit.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Combines visits to Fissure 8, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Hilo with meals included.
• Expert Guided Tour: Guides are praised for their knowledge, making the experience richer and more engaging.
• Stunning Views: Expect spectacular sights of volcanic eruptions, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
• Flexible Platform: Offers multiple languages including Mandarin, Japanese, and Taiwanese, plus private and custom options.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 14 travelers, creating a more personal experience.
• Good Value: At $229, it offers a comprehensive day out, considering the included admissions, meals, and expert guidance.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Stop 1: Fissure 8 Viewing Area

This is the highlight for many—standing just a short walk away from the 2018 eruption site where Fissure 8 changed the landscape of Lower Puna. When we read the reviews, it’s clear that most visitors find this a profound experience. One reviewer said, “Great tour, beautiful experience. I really recommend this company for your shore excursion—we visited a lot of spots.”

You’ll witness the raw energy of Hawaii’s volcanic processes and get a close-up look at the fissure that produced lava flows, creating new land. It’s a chance to see Pele’s power firsthand, and the fact that admission is included makes it a hassle-free visit.

Stop 2: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The trip continues with a drive through two scenic routes: Chain of Craters Road and Crater Rim Drive. These drives are packed with viewpoints and photo opportunities. You’ll also visit the Klauea Visitor Center, which has exhibits and info about Hawaii’s volcanic activity.

A reviewer appreciated this part, saying, “Visiting Fissure 8 and witnessing the eruption at Volcanoes National Park was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” highlighting how accessible and immersive this part of the tour is. You’ll get to see the craters, steam vents, and volcanic landscapes up close. The self-guided component allows you to explore at your own pace, though the guided drive ensures you don’t miss the key sights.

Stop 3: Hilo Discovery

The last part takes you through scenic Hilo, broadening your appreciation for the town’s natural beauty and local charm. Stops at Reeds Bay, Banyan Tree Lane, Richardson Ocean Park, and Queen Liliuokalani Garden offer moments to relax and take in lush scenery.

A traveler described this segment as “visiting beautiful gardens, waterfalls, with plenty of stops for short walks,” giving a sense of the tour’s leisurely and scenic nature. It’s a good way to cool down after the volcanic parts and appreciate the island’s verdant side.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s $229 price covers the main attractions, including admissions to Fissure 8 and the Volcanoes National Park, plus meals. Meals are a nice bonus—no need to worry about bringing snacks or lunch for the day. However, no alcohol is included, so if you’re hoping to toast your adventure with a local brew, you’ll need to arrange that separately.

Keep in mind, the tour is designed for a moderate physical fitness level—you’ll be on your feet at times and might do some short walks, especially at the scenic stops. The group size is capped at 14, which means more attention from your guide and fewer crowds.

Transportation & Timing

Starting at 8:00 am in Hilo, the full tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours. It’s a full day of sightseeing, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour ends back in Hilo, so plan your day around this schedule.

Guides and Reviews

Multiple reviews mention the guides’ expertise as a major plus. One reviewer called their guide “Steve,” and said, “Hands down the best guide and good at sharing stories.” Such praise indicates guides are well-trained and genuinely passionate about what they do.

Travelers also noted how “beautiful the experience” was, and how visiting Fissure 8 and the eruption site felt almost surreal. This sentiment echoes the fact that most reviews rated the tour a perfect 5 stars, underscoring its popularity and high satisfaction levels.

Cons to Consider

While most feedback is positive, some travelers might find the pace a bit intense if they prefer more relaxed days. With a packed itinerary, there’s limited time at each stop—so if you love long, leisurely visits, this may feel rushed. Also, the weather can impact plans; if poor weather cancels the activity, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re someone eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic power up close and learn about the island’s geological features from knowledgeable guides, this tour fits well. It’s appropriate for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level given some walking involved. The scenic drives and short walks make it accessible, but it’s not suited for those seeking a very relaxed, slow-paced day.

It’s especially good for first-timers or those on a cruise who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning detailed logistics. Families with older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing will enjoy it, but younger kids might find the pace a challenge.

The Sum Up

This Fissure 8 and Volcanoes National Park tour offers a robust and engaging way to explore some of Big Island’s most iconic sights. The combination of spectacular volcanic views, lush Hilo scenery, and expert guides makes it a strong choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and learn from knowledgeable locals. The inclusion of meals and covered admissions adds value, making the ticket price feel reasonable for the experience provided.

The popularity and high reviews speak to the quality of the guides and the memorable sights. It’s a well-organized, immersive day that balances the awe-inspiring power of nature with cultural stories, making it suitable for those curious about Hawaii’s fiery landscape. If you enjoy guided tours that combine scenic beauty with informative storytelling, this one is likely to be a highlight of your Big Island trip.

However, be prepared for a busy schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider options that allow more downtime. Still, for a comprehensive, guided exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic heart, this tour hits many of the right notes.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the full-day itinerary with scenic stops and short walks can suit older children comfortable with moderate activity. Always check with the provider about specific age recommendations.

What language options are available for guides?
The tour offers guides speaking Taiwanese, Mandarin, and Japanese, making it more accessible for travelers from those language groups.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back in Hilo.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals are part of the package, so you won’t need to bring extra snacks or worry about lunch.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The key sights include Fissure 8, Volcanoes National Park, the scenic drives, and the lush Hilo stops like gardens and waterfalls.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 14, which helps keep the experience intimate and guides attentive.

If you’re looking to see Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes with knowledgeable guides and a well-paced itinerary, the Fissure 8 Tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, education, and natural beauty. It’s a solid pick for those wanting a comprehensive exploration without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.