Stare into the very mantle of our planet in the safest way possible on one of these excellent helicopter tours of Hawaii’s stunning volcanoes.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Hawaii was forged over millions of years by the molten rage of volcanic hotspots beneath the Pacific. Without volcanoes, there would be no Hawaii. The volcanic soils encourage a thriving tropical flora and fauna, and volcanoes are still spewing lava to this day, occasionally taking away from or adding to the islands, as is their wont. To see them is to understand the true power of our planet, and these three helicopter tours are a great way to do it.
Fly over Volcano National Park and Waterfalls
Among the best value Hawaii volcano helicopter flights is this option from Hilo, on Hawaii’s Big Island. During the one-hour flight, you’ll pass over the lauded Volcano National Park, where you can stare into the caldera of Kilauea, which has been highly active in recent years. Get great views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, as well as passing over lava fields, both fresh and solidified. This tour is usually available daily, although may not run on some weekends. From $309 per person.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Maui and Molokai Scenic Helicopter Flight
For a more scenic and less dramatic helicopter flight, there’s a great option over on Maui that combines many aspects of Hawaiian natural beauty. See the desert-like, almost Martian landscape of Haleakala Volcano, the island’s huge sea cliffs, the stunning waterfalls of Molokai and Honokohau Falls, plus mountains and rainforest. This 55-minute helicopter flight departs on most days of the year, with three flights per day, one in the morning and two in the afternoon. From $359 per person.
Circle Island Helicopter Tour from Kona
If you’d really like to go all-out on your helicopter experience of Hawaii, there’s a remarkable two-hour flight available on Big Island with Paradise Helicopters. You’ll see all five of the island’s volcanoes, including Mauna Loa and Kilauea, and circle the entire island, taking in some truly unique sights, such as Papakolea Beach, with its unusual green sand, and fly over a crater filled with molten lava (whims of nature-permitting). Waterfalls, valleys and lava formations will also be explored on this daily tour. From $738 per person.