Kona Private Waterfalls and Mauna Kea Visitor Center Experience
Embark on a thrilling Hawaiian adventure - chase rainbows at waterfalls, explore ancient lava caves, and ascend to Mauna Kea's heights for epic views and a sunset picnic, all without needing a permit or special gear!
Overview
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, and learn more about how volcanic activity has shaped the region over time. Continue your journey to the Mauna Kea Visitor Center, where you can enjoy cultural insights and breathtaking views without needing a summit permit or 4×4 vehicle. This family-friendly tour concludes with a relaxing picnic dinner surrounded by nature, making it accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Itinerary
- Rainbow Falls
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.
- Boiling Pots
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.
- Kaumana Caves Park
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.
- Mauna Kea Access Rd University Of Hawaii 2.2 Meter Telescope
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.
- Kailua-Kona
Head back to Kona and drop off the guests to hotels or homes.
What’s included
- All Fees and Taxes
- Bottled water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Expert Guide
Not included
- Lunch
- Tour Guide Gratuities
- Breakfast
Know before you go
- Infant seats available
- Public transportation is nearby
- Stroller / pram accessible
Pickup, meeting point & start times
Start times: 5:00 AM, 5:30 AM, 6:00 AM, 6:30 AM, 7:00 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM …
Pickup is included from the listed pickup points — choose yours when you book.
Pickup is up to 45 minutes before the start time; we confirm your exact pickup time before the tour.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
What our travelers say
All reviewsReviews from Barbil Tours guests. 360 India Tours is the India specialist of Barbil Tours, with the same team and guides. Our family of brands
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