The Land of Frozen Fire
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Port
Hilo, Hawaii, US
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$190
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Experience the incredible power of Hawai?i's volcanoes and witness how lava has reshaped entire communities on this fascinating journey through the island's lower East Rift Zone.
Travel from the pier to the historic village of Kalapana, once a thriving Hawaiian fishing community that has been dramatically transformed by volcanic activity. Here, you'll visit the iconic Star of the Sea Painted Church, a beloved local landmark that was famously relocated twice to save it from advancing lava flows. Learn about the resilience of local residents and the powerful forces that continue to shape life on the Big Island.
Continue through an area forever changed by the 2014 and 2018 Kilauea eruptions. Your guide will share stories of how lava created new landscapes while destroying homes, roads, and communities. Visit the former town of Kapoho, which was first devastated by lava in 1960, rebuilt over the following decades, and then dramatically altered again during the 2018 eruption. More than 700 homes were lost, Green Lake was buried beneath molten rock, and the coastline was extended more than a mile into the Pacific Ocean.
Next, visit Lava Tree State Monument, one of Hawai?i's most unique geological attractions. Stroll through a tropical forest where towering lava molds mark the locations of ancient trees engulfed by flowing lava. Your guide will explain how these fascinating natural formations were created and why they remain such an important part of the island's volcanic landscape.
Before returning to the ship, enjoy time in downtown Hilo to browse local shops featuring Hawaiian products including Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, island-made crafts, and souvenirs.
This captivating excursion offers a unique opportunity to witness the dramatic effects of volcanic activity while learning how Hawai?i's communities continue to adapt, rebuild, and thrive.
Please note:
Minimum age is 5 years. Tour sequence may vary. This tour is intended to showcase the latest volcanic events; changes on the day of your tour may reflect an altered itinerary if Civil Defense or USGS deem the target area to be unsafe. Mt Kilauea is an active volcano, and erupts frequently; participate at your own risk. Elevation at the National Park is up to 4,000 feet. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces/trails, inclines and steps. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Dress warmly in layered clothing; outer layer should be windproof and waterproof. Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Natural sulfur gases may affect those with a respiratory condition.
Note (2025–2026): Kilauea Visitor Center is currently undergoing a major renovation. While the center itself is closed, Hawai?i Volcanoes National Park remains open 24/7, including its iconic overlooks, hiking trails, and scenic sites. A temporary visitor center will be open and available during construction. Guests may experience limited parking, temporary area closures, or brief delays at the park entrance. In the event that certain areas are inaccessible during your visit, your tour will include extended time at other key locations within the park to ensure a full and enriching experience.