Why choose this Big Island of Hawaii tour ?

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 to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.

New, extra validity — now yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!

This isn’t an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.



Make the most of your Big Island of Hawaii adventure

What makes Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour a unique experience ?

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: This 25+ mile-long tour covers the essentials of Hawaii Volcanoes in 3-6 hours.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

The Luamanu Crater was once filled with a dense forest… but that all changed in just one day.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The famous Holei Sea Arch. This picture-perfect sea cliff naturally formed into the shape of an arch!

Tour Description & Additional Info:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email with instructions. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the separate app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular.
  • How to start the tour: 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. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
  • Amazing Savings: why pay for an expensive, crowded, and limited bus tour — priced per person! — when you can have ONE amazing audio guide on your OWN phone for your WHOLE group?
  • Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It’s perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
  • Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
  • Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
  • Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
  • Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
  • Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app’s features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
  • Minimum Mobile OS Requirement: iOS 14 or later / Android 9 (Pie) or later. It is compatible with iPad models that have a GPS chip.
  • CarPlay and Android Auto are not yet supported. Connect your phone via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux for audio. Use phone speakers if needed.


Options To Choose for Your Trip:

  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Inclusions:

Included with Your Ticket

  • Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
  • Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
  • 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!

Not Included

  • Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations

Trending Big Island of Hawaii Nearby Tours Likely To Sell Out

Special Instructions:

    You’re not done yet! It’s time to set up the tour you purchased.

    Follow these steps now, while in wifi/signal. Do NOT wait until your travel date or while onsite.

    1. Find the tour setup instructions:

    >> Email: search for the phrase “Your tour operator sent you a message” OR “Set up your Action Tour Guide self-guided tour now.” If it’s not in Inbox, check All Mail.

    >> Viator App Messages: open the app, check Bookings, select View Voucher, and click on Contact Tour Operator

    >> TripAdvisor App Messages:
    open the app, check Account, select Messages

    >> Text: check for a text from 415-980-4997

    >> Can’t find it? Ask us to resend: https://actiontourguide.com/redeem/

    2. Follow the set up instructions NOW, not later:

    >> MUST do this before traveling to site. Requires WiFi/signal.

    >> Do NOT wait until your travel date to access the tour for the first time. The tour is not tied to your travel date.

    3. Not familiar with our self-guided audio tours? Watch this quick tutorial: https://actiontourguide.com/tutorial

    ⚠️ Important Note:
    Your purchase is for the audio tour ONLY. It does not include entrance tickets to parks or attractions.

    ⚠️ CarPlay and Android Auto are not yet supported. Connect your phone via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux for audio. Use phone speakers if needed.

    Have a question – We’re here to help! For quick answers, visit the app’s FAQ section or our website at actiontourguide.com/faq. If you need further assistance, please call us at 1315-291-0634, chat with us online, or email us at support@actiontourguide.com. We’re committed to providing you with the support you need every step of the way!

    Please be advised..

  • This Tour is Provided by History with Action.
  • Tour Timezone & Starts at Pacific/Honolulu.
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • This Tour is Rated 4.5 Stars based on 15 valid reviews on VIATOR.
  • Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
  • Maximum 4 Travelers is accepted for booking.