The volcano tour with Hawaii Forest & Trail Kona is something we had been looking forward to for a long time, and our high expectations were even exceeded. Three absolute highlights were the Kauhi Cavern lava tube with gold shining bacteria covering the walls (we even found a cave dwelling transparent insect), the epic bubbling lava lake at night time, and our tour guide Rob, who was a) extremely knowledgeable on volcanoes, animal and plant life, as well as the importance of Hawaii to astronaut training and preparing humanity for the long trip to Mars, b) very enthusiastic about being there with us and exploring the wonders of the island, and finally c) very kind and caring. We fully recommend this tour!

The trip seemed as though it was all the secret places that no place on the map could show you. It felt like a child’s personal hideaway spaces in the best possible way! Some areas, like into the lava tunnel, and the large trek to and from the lava viewing, be weary of your older family members! But the trip is not all that made it one of the best. Rob, our guide, makes sure that passengers know they can come to him for every question, concern, and comment. He is willing to provide for every need—a true saint among tour guides. He is well versed in the areas you visit, providing insight into all your curiosity. Passionate, he is about this venture; and it truly, truly shows. After spending mere hours with him, I can say confidently that me and my family loved this tour more than any other we have been on.

If you know nothing about Hilo and volcano. I would highly recommend you to Join this tour. I learned a lot from Rob. He did well preparation for all the questions from the tourists. Plus, I enjoy the lunch and hot meal before the dawn. Overall my best experience is seeing the starry night and the sightseeing lava from the volcano crater.