Mauna Loa: A Majestic Natural Wonder
Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on earth in terms of volume and mass, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Rising majestically from the ocean floor to reach a towering height of 13,678 feet above sea level, Mauna Loa dominates the landscape of the Big Island in Hawaii with its impressive size and grandeur.
Natural Beauty
The slopes of Mauna Loa are adorned with lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems, offering a breathtaking display of natural beauty. As visitors ascend the volcano, they will encounter a striking variety of landscapes, from dense rainforests to barren lava fields, showcasing the vast array of natural wonders that adorn this iconic landmark.
- Flora and Fauna: The diverse climate zones on Mauna Loa support a wide range of plant and animal species. Rare endemic flora such as the silversword plant and the Mauna Loa lavender can be found along the volcano's slopes, while native birds like the Hawaiian honeycreeper and the amakihi flit amongst the trees.
- Lava Fields: The rocky lava fields that stretch towards the horizon are a testament to the volcanic activity that shaped the island. Visitors can explore these otherworldly landscapes, marveling at the intricate patterns and formations created by ancient lava flows.
Cultural Significance
Mauna Loa holds great cultural significance for the native Hawaiian people, who consider the volcano to be a sacred site. The summit of Mauna Loa is believed to be the realm of the Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele, and many cultural practices and rituals are associated with the volcano.
Important Note: Due to the cultural significance of Mauna Loa, visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions when exploring the volcano.
Outdoor Activities
For adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, Mauna Loa offers a plethora of opportunities to explore and engage with the natural environment. Hiking trails crisscross the slopes of the volcano, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the chance to witness unique geological formations up close.
- Hiking: The Mauna Loa Summit Trail is a popular choice for experienced hikers looking to challenge themselves with a trek to the volcano's summit. The trail offers panoramic views of the island and the ocean, making it a memorable and rewarding experience for those who reach the top.
- Stargazing: The high elevation of Mauna Loa makes it an ideal location for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. Visitors can marvel at the night sky as they gaze up at the stars from the summit of the volcano, far away from the light pollution of urban areas.
Whether you are a nature lover, a cultural enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Mauna Loa offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit this awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Tours and Experiences for Mauna Loa
This is PRIVATE tour. Just Me, and your Small Group!
Don't be afraid of the low number of reviews. We updated this tour, and the reviews didn't transfer with it. We have delivered hundreds of tours to the Volcano with never a single complaint.
After I pick you up, we head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to explore the sights sounds and smells of Kilauea Volcano. This park is like nowhere else. You will explore some rainforest, Steam Vents, the Kilauea Caldera and of course cover some of the recent changes.
On this Volcano National Park Tour YOU will hit the best spots, and a few places not even on the map!
At Kilauea Volcano you will see scenes you will not experience anywhere else.
We can also easily spend a little time in Hilo and Rainbow falls if you desire.
Come with me to collect the most valuable souvenir of all. Amazing memories!
Take an adventure to otherworldly landscapes, unique ecosystems, and endangered wildlife found only on the Big Island! Explore the unique high elevations lava fields of the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa. Take a guided walk through Mauna Kea’s unique montane dry forests and search for endemic birdlife only found here on the Big Island. This is an off-the-beaten-path adventure most visitors never get to see! Your exceptional naturalist will provide guided interpretation during your entire tour experience.
Experience the magic of the unique sub-alpine dry forest and two of the largest volcanoes on planet Earth:
Explore the northern flank of Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on earth. Travel back in time as you learn all about the lava flows that make up this other worldly landscape. View Mauna Loa Observatory and learn all about the history of the area. Explore Mauna Kea forest reserve with a 4X4 adventure and a guided walk in search of Hawaiian honeycreepers.
Goddess Pele and Hawai’i’s first king, Kamehameha, unite on a stunning 90-minute helicopter tour that showcases four volcanoes and the waterfalls of the extraordinary Kohala Coast. Begin over Kailua Bay’s clear waters then rise to see Pele’s power in the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa. The Ka'upulehu Crater and the Hualalai volcano then give way to the summit of Mauna Kea, 13,796 feet above sea level. To the north, Kohala volcano and its stark landscape lead to the Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, home to native plants and animals. The Kawaihae and Kohala Coasts, boyhood home of Kamehameha, lead to the Pololu and Waimanu Valleys and the Laupahoehoe Nui and Wai’ilikahi waterfalls’ cascading waters. From Waipio Valley’s black sand beach, the flight follows the waterfalls back to Anaehoomalu Bay, Kiholo Bay, and Makalawena Beach. The flight is an unforgettable journey through Pele’s garden of fire and the incredible landscape that was home to Hawai’i’s greatest king.
Discover both the Big Island's beauty and its volcanic fury. Experience all the awesome spectacle of Madame Pele's lava and volcanic badlands, then explore lush rainforests and the Hamakua Coast.
Finally, the deep and immense tropical valleys of the Kohala Mountains, with dozens of cascading waterfalls, provide the perfect finish to the ultimate Big Island adventure.
Fly in the touring helicopter specifically designed for air tours – the incredible Airbus EC 130. This state-of-the-art marvel gives you 23% more interior room, individual business class style seats, two-way communication with your pilot, and expansive glass for outstanding sweeping views. All Blue Hawaiian aircraft incorporate the latest in cutting-edge technologies, materials, systems, safety features, and avionics, and offer incomparable passenger comfort.
Discover both the Big Island's beauty and its volcanic fury. Experience all the awesome spectacle of Madame Pele's lava and volcanic badlands which have been continuously erupting since 1983. Spot the black sand beaches to the lush rainforest along the rugged Hamakua Coast.
Take in the absolute wonder as your pilot descends amongst the lush flora and fauna along 1,200 foot cliffs to a grassy landing pad to the exclusive landing site only accessible by air. Step out of your Eco-Star helicopter at the edge of a fresh water pool and the thundering waterfall. Enjoy photo opportunities with the rainforest backdrop and mist of the falls.
Finally, the deep and immense tropical valleys of the Kohala Mountains, with dozens of cascading waterfalls, provide the perfect finish to the ultimate Big Island adventure.
Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together!
Get a taste of paradise on Hawaii’s Big Island. This driving tour guides you along the island’s picturesque coast and through lush jungle scenery. Lounge on pristine beaches, hike atop dormant volcanoes, go snorkeling in crystal-clear water, and more—all while learning about the fascinating history of this island and the people who call it home. Plus, learn about Hawaiian history, visit ancient burial grounds, and really get to know this island’s rich culture.
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.
Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.
This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
Travel in luxury on an exclusive private helicopter excursion that features volcanic mountains, waterfalls, and the extraordinary Kohala Coast. Enjoy a private landing with a gourmet meal featuring champagne, Hawaiian juices, Ka’u coffee chocolates, and flower leis. Panoramic ocean views offer a perfect romantic getaway. The 90-minute flight begins over Kailua Bay before visiting four volcanoes: Mauna Loa, Ka'upulehu Crater and the Hualalai volcano, Mauna Kea, and Kohala. The Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve then leads to the Kawaihae and Kohala Coasts. Land along the Kohala Coast for a 60-minute stop overlooking the ocean. Return to the air to see the Pololu and Waimanu Valleys, the Laupahoehoe Nui and Wai’ilikahi waterfalls, and Waipio Valley’s black sand beach. Then follow the coast back to Anaehoomalu Bay, Kiholo Bay, and Makalawena Beach. This is an unforgettable experience that includes everything that makes Hawai’i special - stunning volcanoes, magnificent waterfalls, and ocean views.