Kilauea Volcano Bike Adventure (Princess)

[splitpeaz]

I am thinking about doing the ''Kilauea Volcano Bike Adventure'' tour with Princess Cruises in May.

 

Has anyone done this tour and if so, what did they think of it?

 

I want to spend as much time as possible at the park while I am there, other tours (princess and non-princess) seem to stop there for a very short time. The other tour Im considering is the ''Crater Hike & Hilo Waterfalls'' (with Princess) Any recommendations on either?

[Susan-M]

We haven't done the bike tour, but we've hiked Kilauea Iki trail (which is the one that you'd be doing in the Crater Hike & Waterfalls tour)

 

I thought it was a spectacular hike - first a hike along the forested rim of the crater, with views down into the 400 ft. deep lava bed - then down into the crater and a walk along the length of it. link with more info.

 

Some of the same stops are included on both tours - on the bike ride you'd probably get a view from the scenic overlook into the crater. The hike would be more strenuous of an activity - re the description: "This is an activity for avid hikers who can maintain a good pace along rugged terrain and climb steep switchbacks for four miles. " Note that you're not climbing steep switchbacks for 4 miles ... the hike in total is 4 miles, and the switchbacks aren't that steep from what I recall, although you'll be glad when you're back at the top! ... also, when they say 'good pace' - it will be an average pace, and you'll likely stop for explanations from the ranger along the way...so a chance to catch your breath if you need to.

 

Also, I note that in the overview of the hike tour, it mentions Akaka Falls, but in the description it just mentions two falls that are in Hilo - so I wouldn't count on seeing Akaka Falls.