First, you’ll travel across Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and most massive volcanoes on Earth. Your National Park Service certified guide will discuss the volcanology, geology, and history of these monstrous wonders, as well as providing in-depth narration on the various lava flows and flora and fauna that you’ll be passing by.
Explore Kaumana Caves, part of the lava tube system that brought lava as close as 1.5 miles from downtown Hilo in 1881. Take a quick drive through quaint Hilo town where you’ll drive along the historic waterfront. Next, head to Mackenzie State Recreation Area next located along the Puna Coast, the location of the historic eruption of 2018.
Isaac Hale Beach Park is next. Lava floes encircled this popular Park miraculously sparing the infrastructure while completely destroying everything around it. Look for steam still rising from the cooling lava as you drive across it, along with the infamous 'Fissure 8' erupting in the heart of Lelani Estates subdivision. Picnic-style lunch will be served here.
Next travel to the crown jewel of the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Briefly visit the Kilauea Iki Overlook before heading off on foot down the paved road to Keanakakoi. Check out the activity here from the historic 2018 eruption which buckled the road and caused cracks and sinkholes. You’ll get a birds-eye view of the Kilauea Caldera and the enormous Halema’uma’u Crater, along with views of the trail you will take into the Caldera.
Reaching the floor of Kilauea Caldera there is an incredible rock slide to your left, evidence of the 2018 eruption, and Halema’uma’u Crater before you. The Crater increased in size during the eruption with the lava lake draining out of it leaving behind an enormous 1,000-foot deep pit. Return to civilization at Volcano House for some beautiful views.
Picnic-style lunch
