Kaulapele Private Hike: Into the Home of the Volcano Goddess!

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3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

We offer private hikes only—just you and the people you choose to bring! Unlike most tour companies here, which rarely take visitors more than 50 meters from the parking lots, we guide you deep into some of the park’s most fascinating features.

Your journey begins on a lush rainforest trail leading to the floor of Kīlauea Volcano’s main summit caldera. Along the way, we explore the rainforest's rich flora and fauna. Once on the floor, we’ll take in stunning views of the towering crater walls and gaze across at Kīlauea’s primary lava vent.

You’ll learn not only about the geology of Kīlauea Volcano, but also the broader geologic history of the Hawaiian Island chain. We then ascend to the rim, where you’ll experience breathtaking views that few visitors ever see.

Next, we head to Kīlauea Iki Crater, offering spectacular vistas and a chance to learn about the dramatic 1959 eruption that produced the tallest lava fountain ever recorded in the park—taller than the Empire State Building!

What's Included

Professional Guide
The entrance fee to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is not included in the price of the tour.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Arrive at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center parking lot about 15 minutes before your 9:00 AM start time. To get there, once you come through the entrance gate, you will proceed through a roundabout onto Crater Rim Drive - West and make the first right turn into the parking lot

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Journey deep into Kaluapele, the great summit caldera crater of Kīlauea volcano! From lush rainforest to crater floor and back to little-known rim viewpoints, this hike reveals the living, breathing heart of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. We will also visit the views from the rim of the Kilauea Iki crater and see how the crater was transformed by an eruption that created a lava fountain taller than the Empire State Building!

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Due to volcanic emissions, people with respiratory issues should consult a doctor before considering this hike.
Supplied by Volcano Private Treks

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Adventure Tours
Additional fees

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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