Hawaii Hawaii Lodge Based Hike and Explore
Price
Activity Level
Between 2-3
We rate trips on a scale from 1 (leisurely) to 5 (avid), with a range of activity levels in between.
Overview
Aloha! Experience the natural beauty of the Big Island on this Hawaiian adventure. Visit a dramatic variety of the many landscapes that Hawaii has to offer. Explore Volcanoes National Park and hike trails to crater rims, cloud forests, and lava flows. Soak up the sun and watch sea turtles munching on seaweed in the surf. Trek through several of the Big Island’s unique ecosystems and visit the southernmost city in the U.S. Spend a few days along the beaches at the northern tropical end of the island hiking the coast, and swimming in the beautifully clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. Hawaiian culture and history will fascinate and delight you! Lodging is provided in comfortable hotels and locally owned cottages.
Included/Excluded
- Skilled Outdoor Leader guides
- Delicious, healthy meals
- Equipment for all outdoor activities
- Park permits & fees
- Transportation to & from trip activities
- Double-occupancy or group rooms by gender or request
- Limited single-occupancy rooms available for extra cost
- Transportation to and from trip start and end location (including airfare)
- Optional trip insurance
- On-your-own activities, food, and shopping
Location Map
Day 1 – Welcome to Kona, Hawai‘i
Your journey begins with an airport shuttle to the hotel, followed by an evening welcome dinner at a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to meet fellow travelers, review the itinerary, and ease into island time. Guests are invited to take a short walk to the beach afterward to enjoy Kona’s renowned sunset views.
Day 2 – Exploring Hawai‘i’s Historical Sites
Start the day with a visit to the Mauna Lani–Puako Petroglyphs for a guided morning walk through one of the island’s most significant archaeological areas. Continue on to Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, a landmark of deep cultural importance. The afternoon includes time to swim and relax at a local beach, along with a stop at the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company for a brief tour and tasting.
Day 3 – Big Island Waterfalls Adventure
Begin with an early breakfast before heading to the Hilo side for a day of lush rainforest trails, scenic overlooks, and some of the Big Island’s most iconic waterfalls. This is a full day of immersion in the island’s rich natural landscapes.
Day 4 – Snorkeling, Coffee, and Coastal Parks
Enjoy a morning walk and wildlife viewing at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Continue to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park for a guided cultural experience. In the afternoon, snorkel at Kahaluʻu Beach Park, known for calm waters and vibrant marine life. Conclude the day with a visit to a Kona coffee farm for a tasting and short tour..
Day 5 – Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Experience
Spend the day exploring Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, including the Thurston Lava Tube, steam vents, and scenic viewpoints. In the evening, participate in a twilight stargazing experience at Mauna Kea or another designated viewing location—offering some of the clearest night skies in the world.
Day 6 – Hilo & Volcanoes National Park
Visit Downtown Hilo and the tranquil Queen Liliʻuokalani Gardens before returning to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park for additional hiking and exploration. The evening includes a relaxed return to the hotel and an optional group reflection on the week’s experiences.
Day 7 – Farewell & Departure
Enjoy breakfast and some free time in the morning to visit local shops or take a final walk along the coast. 2:00 PM: group airport drop-off and departure.
Our Approach to Accessibility
Wilderness Inquiry takes a creative and multifaceted approach to accessibility on trips and programs. Understandably, an ADA-level accessibility may not always be available in wilderness and even international settings. That is why we utilize Wilderness Inquiry’s Universal Program Participation Model (UPPM) to guide our approach to accessibility by leveraging key resources such as adaptive equipment, support personnel, itinerary and activity choices, and weighing in unique environmental factors to create experiences that can be accessible to many individuals. While our trips may not follow a one-size-fits-all approach, our team does its best to ensure a variety of travel and program options that offer differing levels of accessibility for a variety of needs and abilities. If you have questions about your ability to participate on a Wilderness Inquiry trip or program, our team is always willing to explore options and solutions that suit a traveler’s interest and ability – don’t hesitate to reach out!
What is included in the trip price?
Trip fees cover all of your needs while you are traveling with us — including equipment, food, guides, permits, etc. You are responsible for bringing personal clothing and hygiene supplies. Gear such as sleeping bags, pads, and cots can be checked out during the booking process for no additional fee.
Could the itinerary change after I sign up?
Your trip is dependent on weather, availability, and potential other unforeseen circumstances. All itineraries online are “sample” itineraries that are subject to change. Please check your confirmation packet for the most up-to-date information.
There are many different route choices available within our trip locations for hiking and paddling. The routes will be chosen by Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders based on availability and the strength of the group.
What type of food will I eat during the trip?
Typical menus for overnight camping trips include pesto pasta, burritos, stir-fry, avocado caprese wraps, brats and burgers, apple cobbler, and plenty of snacks. The exact menus vary trip-by-trip. On longer wilderness expeditions, we bring more nonperishable foods that keep well for days without refrigeration. On international trips, we tend to eat the local cuisine. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions and preferences — please note this information on your registration form.
I or a member of my family has a disability. Can I/they still participate?
We strive to put accessibility at the forefront of our programs so that individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities, can successfully participate in our trips. If you or a member of your family has a disability, you will have an opportunity to confidentially share more during the registration process for your trip. A member of our team will connect with you further over the phone to make sure we are able to provide the appropriate support or accommodations you need to have a safe and rewarding experience on your trip.
Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes! We believe the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors should be available to everyone. To keep our programs as financially accessible as possible, each year we raise funds to support need-based scholarships. Certain restrictions apply. Financial aid is available for a select number of trips and is typically not available for international trips. Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more and apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Trip deposits are due at the time of booking and are generally non-refundable.
- Within five weeks prior to trip departure (0-34 days):
- You are responsible for 100% of trip fees. No refunds issued.
- Five to ten weeks prior to trip departure (35-70 days):
- We will refund up to 50% of your trip fee, minus your deposit.
- Ten weeks or more prior to trip departure (71+ days):
- We will issue a refund of all trip fees paid, minus your deposit.
- The deposit may be credited to a future trip.
To view our full cancellation policy, please click here.
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