Hilo Private: Waterfalls and Mauna Kea Visitor Center Experience

Discover the stunning natural beauty of Hawaiʻi on this immersive tour that highlights iconic waterfalls, unique lava formations, and the majestic Mauna Kea Visitor Center. Marvel at Rainbow Falls, where morning mist creates vibrant rainbows, and explore the swirling waters of the Boiling Pots. Walk through the historic Kaumana Caves for a glimpse into the island's volcanic history. This tour is family-friendly and doesn’t require a summit permit or 4x4 vehicle, making it accessible for all ages. Conclude your adventure with a relaxing picnic dinner surrounded by nature. - Experience Rainbow Falls and the dramatic Boiling Pots - Explore the historic Kaumana Caves and learn about volcanic history - Visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Center for cultural insights and views

Itinerary

1. One of the most famous Rainbow Falls, also known by its Hawaiian name Waiānuenue (“rainbow water”), is located near Hilo on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island. It plunges about 80 ft (24 m) into a large pool fed by the Wailuku River, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and vibrant vegetation. On sunny mornings, the mist from the falls refracts the sunlight to create brilliant rainbows — the sight that gives it its name. There’s also a natural lava cave behind the falls steeped in Hawaiian legend as the home of the goddess Hina. (1h 0min) Admission included
2. The Boiling Pots are a series of deep, circular river pools and cascades formed where the Wailuku River flows over ancient lava rock formations left behind by eruptions of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. As the river water rushes through these eroded channels and lava tubes, the currents swirl and churn, creating an effect that looks like the water is boiling. (1h 0min) Admission included
3. Kaumana Caves are a natural lava tube system on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi near Hilo — formed when an 1881 lava flow from the volcano Mauna Loa drained away and left behind long, hollow tunnels in the rock. (1h 0min) Admission included
4. Ascend to the summit of Mauna Kea at 13,796 feet/4205 meters to arrive above the clouds and watch the sunset if the weather is permitting . See international telescopes along the way on this sacred mountain. (2h 0min) Admission included
5. Head back to Hilo (2h 0min)