Secrets of Puna from Hilo

Experience life on the planet's most active volcano during this deluxe tour to Kilauea. Meet your guide for the day and board your tour vehicle. The drive to the volcano will take you through Banyan Drive where visiting dignitaries such as Babe Ruth, Cecil B. DeMille, and then-Senator Richard Nixon planted the famed Banyan trees. The drive also takes you past the water-front Japanese Gardens of Queen Liliuokalani. The lush greenery of Hilo gives way to stark black basalt lava flows in Kalapana, a village completely destroyed by the advancing lava flows just a few years ago. First stop is the Painted Church. Now decommissioned, it was moved by determined villagers not once but twice to evade the molten lava flows. Next, walk across the recent lava flows to the newest black sand beach on the island. You will witness how the volcano engulfed everything in its path, even completely filling in Kaimu Bay with molten lava. This walk takes you over what once was the best swimming beach on Hawaii Island. Continue along the scenic Puna coastline to view the jagged lava cliffs of MacKenzie State Park. Then, your guide will show you a volcanically heated lava cove where you can take a refreshing dip or snorkel looking for tropical fish and the occasional giant green sea turtle. Finally, visit Lava Tree State Park to view the incredible lava formations found here. Left behind a sudden lava flow in 1790, the hot lava cooled around the native Ohia trees in black rock formations that must be seen to be believed. Your return drive will take you through Hilo. A Hawaiian-style BBQ lunch, which includes complimentary beer, is prepared by your guide along the way, and special dietary needs are happily accommodated with advance notice. Tour capacity is limited, molten lava will not be seen, and order of itinerary may change. There are opportunities to purchase local products and souvenirs along the way. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, and bring a swimsuit and towel. What to Expect Moderate air temperatures at sea level, cool water temperatures, occasional rain showers, walks across uneven, rocky terrain including the recent black lava flows, and tour locations created just for our guests. Red lava will not be seen on this tour. Walking distances will vary depending on volcanic activity, which changes constantly.