Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from Kauai

Usually never write a poor review, and the tour itself has good bones and intent, along with the organization. The issue was with Kevin the guide, who is tasked with taking people from potentially all over the world into a US National Park— places whereby law to leave no trace and take nothing— he spent his time gathering tephra/lava rock and took it with him from the park, which is a federal crime. He joked that it wasn’t leaving the island therefore he was ok, but it isn’t ok. It’s not ok as a guide to promote the behavior of taking things from National Parks and potentially for people who have no idea it’s a crime. He also has very loose knowledge of what he speaks about and should be far more careful touting “facts” and “information” unknowing the backgrounds of whom is on his tour. He made the tour uncomfortable with his clear lack of real respect and knowledge and more what his own Colorado beliefs he applies to his interpretation. His lack of respect for cultural food and speaking negatively about it was uncomfortable. For such a tour would be far more authentic with someone with more respect for the culture.

I really enjoyed the tour. It worth the money that I paid. The tour guide named Henry was very helpful and told us a lot of historical facts about the island and the volcanos. He is very knowledgeable. He did a great job as a guide. The only thing that I am confused about is the xenophobic attitude towards my friend and I. I speak with an accent and the tour guide imitated my accent all day long considering that as a joke. It was funny in the beginning , but became annoying after it was repeated constantly. It seems like your company has a lot of experience in tourism and I am surprised that you don’t instruct your employees about cultural aspects of hospitality. This type of jokes definitely don’t spread the “aloha” culture which is proclaimed by Hawaiians. If the guide who works for your company tried to break an ice by making jokes about my heritage, that definitely did not work, because such behavior builds a wall between customer and a company representative. I really want to suggest your company to my friends because as I said before I enjoyed the tour. The question is: should I do so? What if my friends are treated disrespectfully by your employees?

We met Don Snyder, owner of his own tour bus in Hilo and decided that his price was reasonable. I can't praise him enough. Friendly, patient, informative and timely. He really covered the territory to give us the most exposure to sights and features as was possible in a six hour day. Sharing his knowledge and experience of living in the area was a bonus. It's obvious he loves his job and enjoys giving people a good time. I felt safe with his driving and felt he was a responsible tour guide. Thanks Don, we'll see you next time!

This was a great way to see the Big Island in one day. Fun, informative, with time to explore by ourselves.

My husband and I love national parks, and were very excited to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! This trip involved a long day of travel, but was totally worth it if you enjoy visiting national parks. Our tour guide Mel was very informative, sharing information about the island the whole ride to/from the park. We made a few stops along the way to tour a coffee plantation, a few beaches, and lunch at the Punalu'u Bake Shop. It was delicious! Be prepared for a full day of being on the road & flying if you are coming from Kauai.