Big Island: Helicopter Tour Over Volcanoes & Lush Forest

Summary

Helicopter flight from Hilo to see volcanoes, orchids, native forests

You’ll lift off from Hilo with a local pilot guiding you over wild orchid farms and dense native forest before hovering above Big Island’s famous volcanoes. Watch steam rise from ancient craters, feel your heart race as you spot fresh lava flows below, and return with memories that linger long after landing.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a headset before we even leave the ground at Hilo Airport — the kind with the little foam pad that always tickles my ear. Our pilot, Kaleo, grins and tells us not to worry if we feel nervous. I’m not sure if he means about heights or about pronouncing Hawaiian words (I tried “Kīlauea” and he just smiled). The blades start up and it’s loud at first, but then you’re just floating. I can smell rain in the air, even though it’s not raining yet — that wet, green scent you get on Big Island when everything is alive.

The first thing I notice is how patchwork the land looks from above. We pass over these wild orchid farms — rows of purple and white that don’t look real from up here. Kaleo points out native trees I’ve never heard of (I think he said ‘ōhi‘a?), and there’s a moment where the light hits a lava field and it almost glows red-black. It’s weirdly quiet up here except for his voice in my headphones and someone behind me whispering “wow” under their breath. You can see where old lava flows have carved through the forest like scars, some still steaming in places. I didn’t expect to feel so small or so lucky at the same time.

We circle Volcanoes Park and Kaleo slows down so we can look for new flows — he says sometimes you’ll catch a glimpse of orange if you’re lucky, but today it’s just smoke curling up in slow ribbons. Still, there’s something about seeing those craters from above that makes all the guidebook photos seem flat. The whole flight only takes about an hour roundtrip from Hilo but honestly it feels longer in a good way. My hands were sweaty on the seatbelt but by the end I was leaning into the window trying to see every last bit before we landed again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour to Volcanoes National Park

• Depart from Hilo Airport
• Fly over orchid farms and native forest
• View old and new lava flows

Top questions

How long is the helicopter tour over Big Island volcanoes?

The flight lasts about one hour roundtrip from Hilo Airport.

Is pickup included for this helicopter tour?

No hotel pickup is included; travelers meet at Hilo Airport.

What will I see during this helicopter tour?

You’ll fly over orchid farms, native forests unique to Big Island, and get aerial views of old and new lava flows in Volcanoes Park.

Are infants allowed on this helicopter flight?

Yes, infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with health issues?

It’s not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health due to altitude and safety requirements.

Are there weight restrictions for passengers?

If a passenger weighs over 250 lbs or two people together exceed 420 lbs, an extra seat must be purchased for safety reasons.

Do I need to arrive early for my flight?

You should arrive 40 minutes before your scheduled departure time at Hilo Airport.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options near Hilo Airport where the tour begins.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes plus a scenic helicopter flight departing directly from Hilo Airport, soaring above Big Island’s lush forests, orchid farms, and active volcano landscapes before returning to your starting point.