Kilauea Volcano Eruption – 105 Min Heli Tour-Doors Off or On

Big Island’s Kilauea Volcano Helicopter Tour: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of seeing Hawaii’s fiery heart from the air, a helicopter tour of Kilauea Volcano might seem irresistible. This specific tour offers a 105-minute flight over one of the world’s most active volcanoes, with options for doors on or off. It promises an up-close look at steaming lava rivers, lush forests, and the stark black lava fields that tell the story of Kilauea’s continuous reshaping of the island.

What appeals most? First, the chance to witness real volcanic activity from above and experience Hawaii’s raw, powerful landscape. Second, the stunning views of lava meeting the ocean — a rare spectacle. But, before you book, it’s worth noting some possible drawbacks, especially around the experience’s consistency and what you might actually see.

This trip is best suited for those who want a memorable, scenic adventure with a focus on natural spectacle. It’s not the cheapest experience out there, but if you love drama-filled landscapes and are prepared for the realities of a volcanic environment, it could be just the thing.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Kilauea’s eruption and lava flows are the main draw.
• Helicopter tours offer an exhilarating perspective — especially with doors off, if you’re comfortable with that.
• Price point is high, but it reflects the exclusive access and experience.
• Experience can vary based on weather and operational factors, which can impact what you see.
• Group size is limited to 15, which keeps things more personal.
• Accessibility considerations include weight restrictions and safety policies, especially for those over 260 pounds.

What’s Included and How the Tour Works

This helicopter ride is set up as a 105-minute flight, giving ample time to take in the sights of the Big Island’s most active volcanic area. The tour begins at a designated meeting point on Pao’o Street in Kaiminani, and you’ll be flying over Kilauea’s bubbling crater and lava rivers — areas that are constantly changing due to over 30 eruptions in the last six decades.

The flight promises views of lush forests contrasting sharply with black lava fields, highlighting the island’s diverse landscape. As you soar above rivers of molten lava meeting the ocean, you’ll see steam explosions and fiery flows — a truly dramatic sight.

The tour also includes practical details like parking fees, a phone strap for safety, and a guide/driver. You can opt for the doors-off experience, which enhances the thrill of feeling the wind and seeing the landscape unfiltered, but remember that jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are mandatory for safety.

The Itinerary in Detail

The main stop on this helicopter journey is the flyover of Kilauea itself, which is what makes this tour stand out. You’ll get to see the volcano in action, with streams of lava that have been active over many years, meeting the ocean in a display of fire and steam that’s hard to match from the ground.

Unlike typical tours that might include multiple stops, this experience is focused on the aerial view. From 4,091 feet above sea level, you’ll gaze down on the vibrant greenery surrounding the volcano — a stark contrast to the black lava fields that have been carved out by countless eruptions.

The scenic flight will last around 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which your pilot will guide you past the most visually compelling sites. If the weather cooperates, you can expect clear, dramatic vistas. If not, the operator will offer rescheduling or a full refund, which is a plus for flexibility.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Once you’re on the helicopter, the thrill begins. If you’ve chosen doors off, be prepared for an adrenaline rush as you feel the wind and see the landscape unfold before you unfiltered. For those more cautious, the doors on option still provides breathtaking views with a bit more security.

The views of Kilauea’s eruption are the star of the show. You’ll see lava rivers flowing towards the ocean — a noisy, fiery display that’s impossible to replicate on the ground. The vibrant green forests, often seen surrounding the volcano, create a stunning backdrop for the fiery spectacle.

One particular concern raised by a reviewer was the inconsistency of what you might see. A guest mentioned, “We were lied to plain and simple,” feeling misled about the visibility of the volcano. It’s important to remember that volcanic activity and weather conditions heavily influence what can be seen, and the operator emphasizes safety over spectacle.

The knowledgeable guides and pilots are praised for their professionalism and ability to explain what you’re observing, turning a simple flight into an educational experience. However, keep expectations realistic — volcanic activity isn’t always at its peak, and clouds can obscure views.

The Cost and Its Value

At $1,080 per person, this is definitely an investment. That price includes a lot — the helicopter ride, parking, safety gear, and a guide. But you need to consider whether the experience justifies the cost.

Compared to other Hawaii helicopter tours, this is on the higher end, but it’s also a specialized eruption-focused experience. For some, witnessing active lava flows from the air justifies the price tag, especially given the safety and logistical considerations involved.

However, a review pointed out that a guest paid $2,200 for two tickets to see the volcano, and felt misled about what they actually experienced. That highlights the importance of setting realistic expectations and understanding that volcanic activity varies.

The Practicalities and Considerations

• Weight restrictions are in place, with a maximum of 500 lbs per passenger combined. For those over 260 pounds, additional fees or seat purchases might apply.
• The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, so it’s relatively small, which tends to make for a more intimate experience.
• Weather plays a crucial role — if the conditions are poor, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled. This policy is good, but it does mean that your plans might be interrupted.
• For the doors off option, safety gear is mandatory, and long pants, jackets, and hair ties are required.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys adventure and natural wonders, this helicopter tour offers a unique perspective on Hawaii’s volcanic activity. It’s perfect if you want a photo-heavy experience and don’t mind the unpredictability of volcanic eruptions.

Travelers with a sense of curiosity and willingness to accept that views might be limited by weather or activity levels will appreciate this tour. Keep in mind, it might not be the best choice if you’re hoping for a guaranteed view of a major eruption — volcanic activity can be unpredictable.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you’re looking for a consistent, guaranteed volcano experience or are sensitive to heights and wind, this might not be the best fit. The high price combined with the chance of limited visibility due to weather could leave some feeling underwhelmed.

It’s also worth noting that this is not a family-friendly tour per se, given the safety considerations, weight restrictions, and the nature of the experience.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour of Kilauea Volcano is undoubtedly a spectacular way to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity from above. You’ll love the views of lava meeting the ocean and the expert guidance during the flight. But it’s essential to remember that volcanic eruptions are unpredictable, and the experience hinges heavily on weather and activity levels.

It’s a costly but memorable adventure, best suited for those who value spectacular scenery and a bit of adrenaline. If you’re prepared for the uncertainties and want to see active lava flows and volcanic landscapes from a unique vantage point, this could be a highlight of your Big Island trip.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but weight restrictions apply, and safety policies mean that safety gear and safety considerations are important. It’s not recommended for those who are intoxicated or uncomfortable with heights.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the helicopter ride, parking fees, a guide/driver, and safety gear such as a phone strap. The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Can I choose between doors on or off?
Yes, you can opt for doors off or on during booking. Keep in mind that jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are required for doors off.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The operator will cancel or reschedule if the weather is unsafe. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any additional fees?
Guests weighing over 260 pounds may have to pay a weight and balance fee or buy an extra seat. This ensures safety and balance during flight.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal.

What kind of views can I expect?
You’ll see volcanic craters, lava rivers, lush forests, and the coastline where lava meets the ocean — weather permitting.

Is this a good experience for families?
While not specifically geared for children, most travelers of most ages can participate, as long as safety restrictions are met. Keep in mind the safety policies and weather considerations.

Final Word

This helicopter tour promises an epic view of Hawaii’s active volcano and a chance to witness the land’s fiery transformation firsthand. It offers a one-of-a-kind perspective that’s hard to match from the ground. But it’s essential to go into it with flexible expectations and awareness of potential limitations.

If you’re a adventure-seeker, nature lover, or volcanic enthusiast, this could be a highlight of your trip. For those who prefer a more predictable or budget-friendly experience, it might be worth exploring other ways to enjoy Hawaii’s volcanic landscape. Just make sure you’re prepared for the unpredictability that comes with viewing active volcanic activity from the air — and that you’re okay with the high price tag.

Enjoy your trip, and here’s hoping the volcano is in full display when you fly!