Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
26 Reviews
4.54 out of 5 stars Based on 26 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and TripAdvisor
|
Recommended by 96% of reviewers
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Big Island of Hawaii, USA
2 to 3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Overview
Witness the explosive majesty of Hawaii with this self-guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stand at the precipice of Kilauea Crater. Visit the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs. See the beauty of the Hōlei Sea Arch before erosion destroys it for good. Along the way, you’ll find out how volcanoes really work, what they’ve meant in the history of Hawaii, and so much more.
After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point.
Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.
This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
What's Included
- Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
- Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
- Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
- Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
- Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
- Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
- Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
- Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
- Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
Meeting Location
Meeting point
Volcano
HI 96785, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
End point
Chain of Craters Road
Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA
What To Expect
Steam Vents
Steam Vents are created by the heat of the Kilauea Volcano, which heats groundwater trapped in underground pockets. The steam that rises from the vents is an indicator of the volcano's underground activity.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kilauea Military Camp
It’s a recreational facility for soldiers, but its history wasn’t all fun and games. During World War II, this became an internment camp not only for prisoners of war but for innocent Japanese citizens as well.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Entrance Station (Pass By)
Your journey begins at the park’s Entrance Station, Volcano, HI. First, we’ll go straight through the Entrance Gate and explore the area around the visitor center.Note: The tour is over 24.5 miles long, with more than 43 audio stories, and takes about 2-3 hours to complete.Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.
Kīlauea Visitor Center (Pass By)
This is where the short but sweet Sulphur Banks Trail begins. Well, I say sweet… but that’s a lie. It’s actually extremely smelly!
Kilauea Overlook
This spot looks out across the simply jaw-dropping and is one of the must-see spots in the park. Although the crater doesn’t look like a typical volcano, it’s actually one of the most active in the entire world!
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kilauea Iki Trailhead
This trail leads directly through the Kilauea Iki Crater! It’s a 3.3-mile loop that takes about three hours, but the elevation change can be strenuous.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Nahuku - Thurston Lava Tube
The Thurston Lava Tube was formed over 500 years ago when molten lava flowed through the area and created a tunnel-like cave as the lava on the outside cooled and hardened while the lava on the inside kept flowing. The result is a unique cave system that visitors can explore today.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Luamanu Crater
The Luamanu Crater was once filled with a dense forest… but that all changed in just one day.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Puhimau Crater
Puhimau Crater is a volcanic feature located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and if travelers book an experience to visit it, they can witness the unique geological formations created by volcanic activity.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Pauahi Crater
Pauahi Crater is a steep-sided pit crater that was formed by explosive volcanic activity. The crater is approximately 330 feet deep and 1,000 feet in diameter, and it is known for its interesting geological features, such as the lava spatter deposits and the fumaroles, which emit steam and gases.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Pu'u Huluhulu Trailhead
Pu’u Huluhulu is a cinder cone, just like Pu'upua'i. The name means "hairy hill" because low shrubs have grown across it, giving it a fuzzy appearance from afar.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kipuka Puaulu Trail
Kipukas are formed when a lava flow surrounds an area of older vegetation, and over time, this vegetation can continue to thrive, creating a unique island of life in the middle of a barren lava field. These kipukas often have their own microclimate, with different soil types and moisture levels than the surrounding area, allowing for the growth of different plant species.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Mauna Ulu Lookout
This raised platform offers panoramic views of the Mauna Ulu lava flow. It’s mostly flat and gray, but look for the toadstool-shaped formations.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs
Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs is a historical site located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. If travelers book an experience to visit Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs, they can see over 23,000 ancient petroglyphs etched into the hardened lava rock.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Holei Sea Arch
The famous Holei Sea Arch. This picture-perfect sea cliff naturally formed into the shape of an arch!
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Volcano Art Center Gallery
You might notice a small building separate from the rest of the Visitor Center. That will be the Volcano Art Center Gallery, a lovely place to stop if you’re a fan of the fine arts.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- How To Access: After booking, you’ll get an email and text with setup instructions and password (search “audio tour” in emails and texts). • Download the separate tour app by Action • Enter the password sent by email and text. • MUST download the tour while in strong wifi/cellular. • Works offline after download.
- How to start touring: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction.
- Go to the starting point No one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided Enter the first story’s point and the audio will begin automatically Follow the audio cues to the next story, which will also play automatically. Enjoy hands-free exploring. If you face audio issues, contact support. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
- Travel worry-free: Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace. Skip anything you don’t care about or explore bonus content for everything that interests you
- Savings tips: Driving tours: purchase just one tour for everyone in the car
- Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.
- Please note that an entrance fee is required to visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and it is not included with this tour.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to your car's stereo system using Bluetooth, USB, or AUX. For the best experience, consider using headphones for walking tours. Audio playback is compatible with Apple CarPlay, with navigation features coming soon. Support for Android Auto is also on the way.
- For the best experience, please use an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, an Android device running version 9 or later, or an iPad/tablet with GPS and cellular connectivity, as these are recommended for navigation.
- Tsunami Warning: Due to a massive earthquake in the Pacific Ocean, a Tsunami Warning has been issued for Hawaii. For the most up-to-date information, visit: tsunami.gov.
- Important Note: Due to the possibility of government shutdowns affecting national parks and certain attractions, we recommend checking official websites for any updates or closures before your trip. This will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
(6)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour?
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-259665P20
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.54
26 reviews
Average 4.54 out of 5 stars based on 26 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
5 stars
17
4 stars
8
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
1
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Hawaii customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour?
A:Apr 2025
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!.
- Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!.
- Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
- Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!.
- Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!.
- Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!.
- Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!.
- Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone.
The following is NOT included:
- Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations.
Q:
What is the minimum age for this activity?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible activity?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Hawaii. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
- Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
- Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
- Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
- Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
- Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
- Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
- Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
- Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- How To Access: After booking, you’ll get an email and text with setup instructions and password (search “audio tour” in emails and texts). • Download the separate tour app by Action • Enter the password sent by email and text. • MUST download the tour while in strong wifi/cellular. • Works offline after download.
- How to start touring: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction.
- Go to the starting point No one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided Enter the first story’s point and the audio will begin automatically Follow the audio cues to the next story, which will also play automatically. Enjoy hands-free exploring. If you face audio issues, contact support. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
- Travel worry-free: Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace. Skip anything you don’t care about or explore bonus content for everything that interests you
- Savings tips: Driving tours: purchase just one tour for everyone in the car
- Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.
- Please note that an entrance fee is required to visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and it is not included with this tour.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to your car's stereo system using Bluetooth, USB, or AUX. For the best experience, consider using headphones for walking tours. Audio playback is compatible with Apple CarPlay, with navigation features coming soon. Support for Android Auto is also on the way.
- For the best experience, please use an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, an Android device running version 9 or later, or an iPad/tablet with GPS and cellular connectivity, as these are recommended for navigation.
- Tsunami Warning: Due to a massive earthquake in the Pacific Ocean, a Tsunami Warning has been issued for Hawaii. For the most up-to-date information, visit: tsunami.gov.
- Important Note: Due to the possibility of government shutdowns affecting national parks and certain attractions, we recommend checking official websites for any updates or closures before your trip. This will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
