Question 1

What time do tours begin and how long do they last?

Accepted Answer

Schedule and tour times are listed on each tour page. Most standard tours begin around 8:00 AM and typically last 7 to 8 hours, though timing may vary based on pickup and drop-off locations, cruise schedules, traffic, weather, and the size of your party.

Question 2

When should I arrive for pickup?

Accepted Answer

Unless arranged otherwise, your tour begins promptly at the scheduled time. Please plan to arrive early for pickup, as we begin taking a head count and loading the van 15 to 30 minutes before departure.

Question 3

I'm arriving by cruise ship. Will you adjust for ship timing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While our tours are scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM, we know it can take time to come off the ship. We keep track of ship arrival times and adjust accordingly so you do not miss your tour. Tour lengths may be adjusted when needed to accommodate a timely return.

Question 4

Where do you pick up guests?

Accepted Answer

Pickup locations include Hilo Harbor, Hilo Airport, Hilo Hawaiian, Grand Naniloa, SCP Hilo Hotel, Hilo Reeds Bay Hotel, and other designated Hilo locations. A typical meeting location for other guests is 123 Lihiwai Street at the Hilo Bay Cafe parking lot. Kona locations are available for custom/private tours. You will be contacted about your pickup and drop-off location with any special instructions.

Question 5

Where do cruise passengers meet you at Hilo Port?

Accepted Answer

Cruise ship guests should look for their guide with the Aloha ʻĀina Tours sign. Your confirmation will include instructions for pickup either inside the terminal or right outside the Hilo port gates.

Question 6

Can separately booked groups ride together?

Accepted Answer

If your group booked separately, please inform us before the tour date so we can accommodate you in the same vehicle when possible. If your group has more than 14 passengers, the group will be split into two vehicles.

Question 7

Is food included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Food is included. We provide a variety of Hawaiian-style juices and water, plus grab-and-go snacks. For lunch, you may choose from the available list of options for your tour day.

Question 8

Can you accommodate allergies or gluten-free needs?

Accepted Answer

Please tell us about allergies or dietary needs before your tour. We strive to accommodate food allergies, but we cannot guarantee the absence of cross-contamination because food may be prepared in kitchens that handle allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, soy, and others. Gluten-free options may include a lettuce wrap or a sandwich without the bread.

Question 9

Can I bring my own food or snacks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You are encouraged to pack your own food or snacks if you prefer. The tour price is not adjusted when guests bring their own food.

Question 10

Are entrance, admission, and parking fees included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Entry, admission, and parking are included for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls. Depending on your tour, admission may also include ʻAkaka Falls, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, and Fissure 8 access.

Question 11

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable closed-toe shoes are highly recommended. A light sweater or jacket is also helpful because weather and elevation can change throughout the day.

Question 12

What should I bring with me?

Accepted Answer

Nice-to-have items include a hat, sunglasses, sunblock, bug repellent, walking stick, poncho or light jacket, camera, hydration, and extra snacks. Umbrellas are provided. Drones are not allowed at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Question 13

Can I bring luggage?

Accepted Answer

Due to space limitations, luggage is not permitted unless you are booked on a custom tour. Small bags or backpacks that can fit on your lap or under the seat are preferred.

Question 14

Can children join the tours?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. All ages can be accommodated, and we are happy to supply infant and booster seats at no charge with advance notice and depending on availability. Hawaiʻi child passenger safety requirements apply based on age and height.

Question 15

Are tours accessible for mobility devices or strollers?

Accepted Answer

Participants should be able to step up into the vehicle independently or with assistance from their companion and navigate stairs or uneven terrain. Please check tour details for restrictions, especially the Fissure 8 Tour. Because our vans do not have lifts, we cannot accommodate electric scooters or wheelchairs. Any mobility device should be collapsible and must fit through the van doors. Please notify us before your tour if you are bringing a wheelchair, walker, mobility device, or stroller.

Question 16

What health conditions should I consider?

Accepted Answer

Guests with respiratory concerns should be mindful that volcanic emissions, including sulfur gas, may be present. Guests prone to motion sickness should know that we travel in the van for extended periods and change elevation during the day. Please contact us before booking if you have questions.

Question 17

Is smoking, vaping, alcohol, or pets allowed?

Accepted Answer

For the comfort and safety of all guests, smoking and vaping are not permitted in the van. Alcohol is not served and possession or consumption of open containers in the vehicle is strictly prohibited under Hawaiʻi law. Pets are not permitted. Service animals are permitted, but arrangements must be made in advance because other guests may have allergies or animal aversion.

Question 18

Will we see active lava?

Accepted Answer

Kīlauea activity changes often, and active lava is never guaranteed. We check current conditions and adjust the tour experience accordingly, following USGS, National Park Service, County, State, and Federal guidance.

Question 19

Is swimming or snorkeling included?

Accepted Answer

Unless you have booked a custom tour that specifically includes swimming, there is no snorkeling or swimming on our listed tours. For your safety and ours, we do not recommend getting into the water on standard sightseeing tours.

Question 20

Are there bathroom stops?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tours are designed to allow for frequent bathroom stops. Guides will point out and plan recommended stops along the route. Our vans do not have bathrooms on board.

Question 21

Will we stop at local shops or vendors?

Accepted Answer

Along the way, you may have opportunities to visit local shops or vendors. We do not receive financial incentives to promote other businesses.

Question 22

Can I take sand, lava rocks, or natural items home?

Accepted Answer

No. Taking sand and lava rocks from Hawaiian beaches and volcanic areas is prohibited and culturally disrespectful. Hawaiʻi law protects sand, dead coral, coral rubble, rocks, soil, and other marine deposits. Please leave the ʻāina as you found it.

Question 23

Do you offer other languages?

Accepted Answer

Shared tours are in English. Taiwanese, Japanese, and Mandarin Chinese may be available by request for private/custom tours, depending on guide availability.

Question 24

Can you create a private custom tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Let our tour coordinator assist you in creating a custom private tour for you and your group. You can travel in comfort and privacy, with your trip tailored to your preferences. We can accommodate various group sizes up to 14 guests per shuttle.

Question 25

Can a custom tour include local restaurants or wineries?

Accepted Answer

Yes, custom tours may include restaurant or winery stops when arranged in advance. If your custom tour includes alcohol at a local restaurant or winery, please enjoy responsibly and in moderation. Alcohol is still not permitted in our tour vans.

Question 26

Do you offer gift cards?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can purchase a gift card with a value of your choosing. From the main page, click Book Now to reach checkout, where you can choose a gift card and amount. Contact us if you need assistance.

Question 27

Can I book last minute?

Accepted Answer

No worries—we love your spontaneity. Our booking system may not allow online bookings after a certain time, but please reach out and we will do our best to fit you in.

Question 28

What happens with weather, park closures, or operator cancellations?

Accepted Answer

Be prepared for evacuation in accordance with directions given by County, State, and/or Federal officials. We embrace the unpredictable and ever-changing Hawaiian weather and operate rain or shine, though itineraries may be adjusted. If safety, park closures, minimum participant requirements, or unforeseen circumstances require us to cancel, reschedule, or offer alternatives, we will notify you as early as possible and provide the opportunity to rebook or receive a full refund. We do not offer partial refunds for itinerary adjustments.

Question 29

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

You may cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund. For cancellations inside the 24-hour window, we will make every effort to reschedule your booking to another date, but we do not offer trip protection. No-shows are charged the full price.

Question 30

What if my cruise ship cannot dock?

Accepted Answer

If your ship is unable to dock due to weather, we will issue a full refund. When possible, we will also try to reschedule your tour so you do not miss out. This situation is entirely outside your control, and we want to make it worry-free for you.

Question 31

Can service be refused or a tour terminated?

Accepted Answer

We reserve the right to refuse service or terminate the tour for any guest whose behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or inappropriate, without refund. Please contact us by phone or email for cancellations or rebookings so you receive written confirmation.

Question 32

Are gratuities expected?

Accepted Answer

Gratuity is not obligatory, but it is sincerely appreciated. Our friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced guides focus on delivering a safe, comfortable, fun, and engaging experience for all guests.

Common Questions Before Your Big Island Tour

Schedule & Pickup

Food & Inclusions

What to Bring

Accessibility & Safety

Tour Experience

Private & Custom Tours

Booking & Policies