The Island of Hawaii is a hiker’s paradise, offering a mix of volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and native wildlife. With active volcanoes, ancient lava tubes, and rare bird habitats, this island turns every trek into a unique, up-close experience. We especially love the Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike, which combines geology, botany, and breathtaking sunsets in just three hours.
This tour captures the essence of Hawaii’s volcanic heart and is perfect for those short on time but eager for a memorable adventure.
Whether you prefer a serious full-day trek, a private exploration of volcanic craters, or a birdwatching expedition, Hawaii offers something for every type of hiker. Below, we present the five best hiking and trekking tours on the island, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
At number one, this guided hike through Volcanoes National Park is an excellent introduction to Hawaii’s volcanic marvels. For just $120, you get a 3-hour tour led by a certified interpretive guide who shares insights into the park’s geology, native plants, and volcanic activity.
You’ll have the chance to watch the sunset over an active volcano and see the eerie glow from a lava lake—an unforgettable sight.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on education combined with stunning scenery. Walking through a native Hawaiian rainforest, you’ll learn about the island’s volcanic formation and its ecological significance. It’s perfect for travelers who want a compact, informative experience with a touch of drama from the volcanic glow.
The small-group setting ensures plenty of personal attention, making it easier to ask questions and get a detailed understanding of the landscape.
Bottom Line: A short but rich experience ideal for those new to Hawaii’s volcanoes, offering stunning sunset views and expert guidance.
2. Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
At number two, the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike is a full-day adventure lasting about 6.5 hours and priced at $230. This tour takes you deep into the caldera of an active volcano, with options for group or private outings.
You’ll trek through lush Hawaiian forests, walk across the volcanic landscape, and explore the historic Kilauea Iki Crater, culminating with a visit to the iconic Thurston Lava Tube.
What sets this tour apart is the depth and variety of terrain, plus the in-depth ecological insights from your guide. The tour includes a picnic lunch, giving you time to relax and soak in the scenery. Guests have shared that the guide’s knowledge about the park’s ecology makes the experience truly engaging, especially when spotting native wildlife.
Best suited for: Travelers with a full day to spare who want to combine hiking with learning about Hawaii’s volcanic and ecological history. The longer duration and more extensive terrain make it ideal for those with moderate fitness levels.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive volcano adventure that mixes geology, wildlife, and history, this guided hike is a top choice.
3. Big Island: Off the Beaten Path Volcano Crater Hike
Number three on our list is the Off the Beaten Path Volcano Crater Hike, which offers an exclusive look at Kona’s Hualalai Volcano. Priced at $194 for around 5 hours, it provides private access to areas rarely seen by travelers.
You’ll hike 3-4 miles through untouched cloud forests, walk along the edge of eruptive craters, and scramble through lava tubes—an adventure for those who want a more rugged experience.
What makes this tour special is its access to private lands, allowing you to explore volcanic features and native forests that most visitors never see. The optional segment through a lava tube adds a thrilling hands-on element, and the landscape offers stunning views of fissures and crater rims plunging into the Earth’s depths.
Best suited for: Active travelers looking for a more secluded, challenging experience with the chance to see pristine volcanic terrain and native forests. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with moderate hikes and want to avoid crowds.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an adventurous, private exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic upper slopes, this tour delivers exclusivity and rugged scenery.
4. Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour
Number four, the Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour is a full 12-hour day trip priced at $288. It combines birdwatching with light hiking in the Hakalau Forest, a protected area for native and endangered species. Riding comfortably in a 4WD, you’ll search for rare birds like the Amakihi, Apapane, and Elepaio, as well as discovering native plants and even carnivorous caterpillars.
This tour appeals to nature lovers who want a deep dive into Hawaii’s unique wildlife. The guide’s expertise allows you to identify and learn about the various species you encounter. Since the hike is relatively gentle, it’s accessible to most fitness levels, and the packed lunch makes for a convenient, all-day adventure.
Best suited for: Bird enthusiasts and wildlife watchers willing to spend a day exploring a rare native habitat. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine hiking with a focus on Hawaii’s ecosystems rather than volcanic landscapes.
Bottom Line: A great way to spend a day immersed in native Hawaiian flora and fauna, especially if birdwatching is a top priority.
5. Waikoloa/Kohala: Elite Volcano Hike
Rounding out our list at number five is the Elite Volcano Hike, a 12-hour tour for $310 that goes deep into the volcanic activity of Kilauea. Starting with a walk along the 2-mile Halema’uma’u Trail into Kilauea Caldera, you get a close-up view of recent volcanic activity. Afterwards, the tour visits the aftermath of the 2018 eruption along Kilauea’s coastline, revealing the power of nature’s forces.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of hiking over historic eruption sites and exploring caves such as the Kaumana Caves. The extensive itinerary offers a comprehensive look at the island’s volcanic activity with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.
Best suited for: Serious hikers and geologically inclined travelers eager to see recent volcanic changes and explore lava caves. It’s a long day but packed with memorable sights.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an intense, full-day volcanic adventure with a focus on recent eruptions and caves, this tour is a prime pick.
How to Choose Your Ideal Hawaiian Hike
When selecting among these tours, consider your fitness level, how much time you want to spend, and what interests you most—volcanoes, native wildlife, or a mix. For a quick, scenic introduction, the Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike offers a taste of Hawaii’s volcanic drama.
If you want a full day immersed in volcano geology and ecology, the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike is hard to beat. For a more private, rugged experience, go for the Hualalai Crater Hike.
Bird lovers should head straight to the Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour, while adventure seekers wanting recent eruption sites will appreciate the Elite Volcano Hike.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays, as these tours fill quickly. Think about your fitness, interests, and how much of Hawaii’s volcanic wonderland you want to see—then pick the tour that fits best.
In summary, the Island of Hawaii offers a range of hiking experiences, from quick scenic walks to full-day explorations of active volcanoes and native ecosystems. Whether you’re a casual hiker, a geology enthusiast, or a birdwatcher, you’ll find a tour that makes your trip memorable.
For the most thrilling and educational adventures, consider booking one of these highly-rated options in advance—and enjoy every step on this volcanic island.