Hilo is a fantastic place for hiking and trekking thanks to its lush landscapes, powerful waterfalls, and active volcanoes. The area’s dense rainforests and volcanic terrain offer a wide variety of outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for those who want to explore on foot.
We especially love the Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian tour for its combination of scenic beauty and cultural insight, and the Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking expedition for its close-up view of volcanic power.
These tours stand out for their authenticity and unique access to some of Hawaii’s most iconic natural sights. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual hiker, Hilo offers options that will inspire and challenge.
Quick Overview
Here’s a quick look at the best hiking and trekking tours in Hilo, each with its own特色:
- Hilo: Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian — a half-day tour focused on waterfalls and local culture. More info
- Hilo: Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls — an 8-hour adventure exploring the 2018 volcanic eruption site and waterfalls. More info
- Hilo: Elite Volcano Hike — a comprehensive trek down into Kilauea Caldera with a focus on the aftermath of recent eruptions. More info
1. Hilo: Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian
This 4-hour guided tour takes you through some of Hilo’s most stunning waterfalls, including Waiānuenue (the famous “Rainbow Falls”), Peʻepeʻe, and Waiale Falls. The tour is perfect for those who want to combine natural beauty with cultural learning. Your local guide shares insights into Hilo’s history, legends, and traditional Hawaiian practices, enriching your experience beyond just sightseeing.
What truly makes this tour special is the opportunity to swim in Waiale Falls — a refreshing, off-the-beaten-path experience. The water here is cool and invigorating, and the setting feels wonderfully untouched.
The scenic drive through Hilo’s verdant landscapes adds to the feeling of discovery. This tour is rated 4.9 out of 5, based on 8 reviews, making it one of the most highly recommended in the area.
Bottom line: If you prefer a shorter, culturally rich day with a splash of adventure, this waterfall and swimming tour offers great value. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed pace but still get a real taste of Hawaii’s natural magic.
2. Hilo: Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking, Volcanoes and Waterfalls
For around $240, the Kilauea Fissure 8 Hiking tour is an 8-hour guided journey into one of Hawaii’s most spectacular volcanic sites. Led by a landowner with exclusive access, this tour gets you up close to the 2018 eruption site — Fissure 8 — where lava flowed for months, creating a surreal landscape.
Besides witnessing the lava fields, the tour includes scenic drives through coastal towns and plantation landscapes, painting a vivid picture of Hawaii’s diverse environment. You’ll also visit historic sites in Hilo that reveal the island’s natural history and cultural roots.
The highlight is definitely the magnificent lava field at Fissure 8, where the power of nature is on full display. This tour is rated a perfect 5/5 based on one review, reflecting its exclusive access and memorable experience.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for travelers who are serious about volcano exploration and want to learn about Hawaii’s volcanic activity firsthand. It’s a full-day experience that combines adventure, education, and unique landscapes — worth the investment if your schedule allows.
3. Hilo: Elite Volcano Hike
The Elite Volcano Hike offers a more intensive experience, lasting about 8.5 hours and costing $275 per person. It features a hike down the Halemaʻumaʻu Trail into Kilauea Caldera, one of Hawaii’s most iconic volcanic craters. This tour is designed for those who want a deeper, more immersive encounter with Hawaii’s volcanic activity.
After hiking into the caldera, you’ll visit the aftermath of the 2018 eruption along Kilauea’s coastline, exploring the new landscapes shaped by recent volcanic activity. The day includes a delicious lunch, making it suitable for travelers comfortable with longer, more physically demanding outings.
With a rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 6 reviews, the tour still offers a high-quality, memorable experience, especially for dedicated volcano enthusiasts.
Bottom line: The Elite Volcano Hike is best suited for active travelers eager to combine challenging hikes with the opportunity to see recent volcanic changes up close. It’s a worthwhile choice for those wanting an in-depth look at Hawaii’s volcanic landscape.
How to Choose the Right Hilo Hiking Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your fitness level, interests, and schedule. If you prefer a shorter, cultural experience with a splash in a waterfall, the Waterfall Hike and Swim is perfect. For those who want a full-day volcano adventure, the Kilauea Fissure 8 Tour offers an unforgettable look at recent volcanic activity, especially if exclusive access appeals to you.
For the most immersive volcanic expedition, the Elite Volcano Hike delivers a more demanding but deeply rewarding journey into Hawaii’s volcanic core. Booking early is advisable, particularly for the popular and highly-rated tours, especially during peak seasons from fall to spring.
Final Thoughts
Hilo’s range of hiking and trekking tours ensures there’s something for every type of traveler. If you’re after a quick, scenic walk with cultural insights, the Waterfall Hike is a solid choice.
For those with a passion for volcanoes and geology, the Fissure 8 tour delivers dramatic sights and stories of eruption. Meanwhile, the Elite Volcano Hike offers a comprehensive, physically engaging exploration for dedicated adventurers.
No matter which tour you choose, Hilo’s landscapes are sure to leave a lasting impression. To get the most out of your trip, consider your interests and fitness level, and book your tours well in advance. These experiences are memorable and unique — making your time in Hilo truly special.