Volcanoes National Park is pretty amazing in itself, but wouldn’t a bike ride around the park be that much better? A Volcanoes National Park Bike Tour makes it possible! Sure, you could do it by car, but you it is a much more memorable experience when you can feel breeze on your face, the temperature variances and take in the various smells.
Before heading to a new destination, we always try to have a few activities pre-booked. So, when it came to visiting the Big Island, we booked the Full Day Bike Volcano Adventure with Bike Volcano.
The day started very early with a drive from Waikoloa Village to Volcanoes National Park. I’m not going to lie, it is a long drive, especially going there and back in one day.
According to Hawaii Magazine, Hawaii has 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones and by driving from the Kona area to the park, you will come across quite a few. One the way back it was raining leaving Hilo, pouring rain along the way with hail and temperatures near freezing, but when we made it back to the Waikoloa, it was sunny and warm.
The adventure starts off with a visit to the Jaggar Museum. There, you will get your first look at Summit Crater and the guides will provide you a bit of Kilauea’s history.
After you receive your bike and equipment and a few words about safety, you are on your way.
The whole ride is either flat or downhill, so as long as you know how to ride a bike you will be fine. There are plenty of stops along the way to ensure that the whole group stays together and to see what there is to see.
The two things that I like the most about guided tours like this are that they typically bring you to see things that you would probably miss if you went on your own and that they always have some interesting historic facts. This was no exception!
You will notice the landscape changing around you, from lush rainforest, to a fern forest, to black lava rock as far as the eyes can see. One of the most interesting stops on the tour is at the Thurston lava tube; you will even be able to hike through it.
At the end of the bike portion of the tour, you will hop in the van that will bring you down oceanside where you will eat lunch and explore your surroundings. You might be able to spot some whales depending on the time of year!
We have nothing but great things to say about this tour and the staff. It is definitely a must do for anyone wanting to combine a bit of adventure with a tour of the park.
What to wear? Wear something comfortable for biking, wear close toed shoes like running shoes, and be sure to wear layers up top.
What to bring? Camera, sunscreen, sunglasses – they provide all of the rest.
Is it worth it? It’s a fantastic way to see the park. Yes, the $136 per person (latest posted rate) is a bit steep but it’s a once in a lifetime experience. They provide the mountain bike, safety equipment, lunch, juice and water bottles.
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