Top Reasons Safari Helicopter Kauai Is a Bucket List Experience

Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” is a breathtaking mix of lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. While exploring its beauty from the ground is incredible, nothing compares to seeing it from the sky with Safari Helicopter Tours Kauai. For travelers seeking the ultimate Hawaiian adventure, a helicopter tour over Kauai is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

1. Unmatched Aerial Views of the Garden Isle

With Safari Helicopter Tours, you’ll soar over landscapes that few ever get to see up close. From the towering cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast to the deep green expanse of Waimea Canyon — often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” — every moment in the air feels magical. The bird’s-eye view provides a new perspective on Kauai’s raw and untouched beauty.

2. Access to Hidden Natural Wonders

Many of Kauai’s most stunning waterfalls and valleys are unreachable by car or foot. Safari Helicopter Tours Kauai grants you exclusive access to these remote treasures. Fly over the Manawaiopuna Falls — famous as “Jurassic Falls” from the movie Jurassic Park — and experience hidden landscapes that can only be admired from above.

3. Expert Pilots and Exceptional Comfort

Safety and comfort are at the heart of every Safari Helicopter Tour. The experienced pilots are not just skilled aviators but also engaging narrators who share fascinating stories and history about Kauai’s land, culture, and legends. With spacious seating and crystal-clear windows, every guest enjoys a perfect view and a smooth, relaxing flight.

4. Photography Opportunities Like No Other

Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply love capturing memories, a Safari Helicopter Tour offers endless opportunities for incredible shots. The lighting, perspective, and vast panoramic scenes make it easy to snap postcard-worthy images of Kauai’s most famous landmarks.

5. A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

For many travelers, a Safari Helicopter Tour over Kauai is more than a sightseeing trip — it’s a bucket-list adventure. From the moment the rotors lift off until you gently return to the helipad, the experience is unforgettable, offering a perfect blend of thrill, beauty, and serenity.

Experience the Magic with Safari Helicopters

Whether you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time or returning for another adventure, Safari Helicopter Tours Kauai promises an awe-inspiring journey through paradise. Discover why countless travelers call it the highlight of their trip — and a must-do on any Hawaiian bucket list.

Eco-Friendly Helicopter Tours: Minimising Impact, Maximising Experience

As travelers become more conscious of their environmental footprint, eco-friendly tourism is on the rise. At Safari Helicopters, we believe that exploring Hawaii’s breathtaking beauty should never come at the expense of nature. Our commitment to sustainability ensures that every flight—from Big Island helicopter tours to Hilo Hawaii helicopter tours—minimises environmental impact while maximising the adventure of a lifetime.

1. Sustainable Aviation Practices

Helicopter tourism can coexist with environmental care when done responsibly. Safari Helicopter Tours uses advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft that reduce emissions and noise pollution. By maintaining our helicopters to the highest standards, we ensure they run smoothly and efficiently, leaving a smaller carbon footprint during each journey.

2. Eco-Conscious Tour Planning

Every flight route is carefully planned to protect Hawaii’s delicate ecosystems. Our pilots avoid disturbing wildlife habitats and sensitive areas, allowing guests to enjoy panoramic views without impacting the environment below. Whether you’re exploring lava flows, lush rainforests, or majestic waterfalls, our Big Island helicopter tours are designed for maximum awe and minimal disturbance.

3. Supporting Conservation Efforts

At Safari Helicopters, sustainability goes beyond flight operations. We actively support local conservation and reforestation projects across the islands. A portion of our proceeds helps preserve Hawaii’s natural wonders for future generations, so every Hilo Hawaii helicopter tour you take contributes to a greener tomorrow.

4. Educating Travelers on Responsible Tourism

Our experienced pilots double as storytellers and educators, sharing insights about Hawaii’s culture, history, and fragile environment. Guests leave not only with stunning memories but also with a deeper appreciation for the islands’ natural balance. Eco-tourism isn’t just about seeing Hawaii—it’s about understanding and respecting it.

5. Experience the Difference with Safari Helicopter Tours

Choosing Safari Helicopter Tours means choosing responsible adventure. Our eco-friendly practices, coupled with unmatched aerial views, make every journey unforgettable. Whether you’re soaring above volcanoes or gliding past waterfalls, our tours offer the best way to experience Hawaii—beautifully, sustainably, and responsibly.

Conclusion

Eco-friendly travel is the future, and Safari Helicopters is proud to lead the way. With our sustainable approach to Big Island helicopter tours and Hilo Hawaii helicopter tours, you can experience Hawaii’s natural beauty while helping preserve it for generations to come. Join us for a breathtaking journey that truly makes a difference.

Eco-Friendly Helicopter Tours: Minimising Impact, Maximising Experience

Ever wondered how you can experience the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii without leaving a carbon footprint? Helicopter tours over Hilo and Kauai offer a bird’s-eye view of lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and rugged coastlines—but not all tours are created equal. If you’re eco-conscious yet crave adventure, eco-friendly helicopter tours are changing the game.

In this guide, we’ll explore how Hilo helicopter tours and safari helicopter tours Kauai are adopting sustainable practices, what to expect, and tips for making your aerial adventure as green as possible.

Why Eco-Friendly Helicopter Tours Matter

Tourism is a double-edged sword: while it boosts local economies, it can strain fragile ecosystems. Traditional helicopter tours contribute to noise pollution, fuel emissions, and sometimes disturb wildlife habitats.

Eco-friendly tours address these issues by:

  • Using fuel-efficient helicopters: Modern aircraft consume less fuel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Minimising flight frequency: Operators plan optimized routes to reduce overall flight time.
  • Supporting conservation: Some tours contribute a portion of profits to local environmental projects.

For instance, several operators in Kauai and Hilo now implement hybrid flight schedules to reduce noise over sensitive bird nesting areas—a small change with a huge impact.

What to Expect on Hilo Helicopter Tours

Hilo helicopter tours are renowned for offering immersive views of volcanoes, rainforest canopies, and stunning coastline cliffs. Eco-conscious tour companies focus on experiences that respect the environment without compromising adventure.

Key Features:

  1. Scenic yet Sustainable Routes: Pilots avoid overflying fragile ecosystems and endangered species zones.
  2. Electric or Low-Emission Helicopters: Some operators are testing hybrid engines to reduce fuel use.
  3. Educational Narration: Guides highlight local ecology and conservation efforts, making your journey informative as well as scenic.

Tip: Bring a camera, but also be mindful of wildlife—avoid using flash over sensitive areas.

Safari Helicopter Tours Kauai: Adventure Meets Responsibility

Kauai’s dramatic cliffs and hidden waterfalls make it a hotspot for safari helicopter tours. The eco-friendly movement here focuses on balancing thrill with sustainability.

How These Tours Minimise Impact:

  • Eco-Flight Paths: Routes designed to avoid nesting birds and marine life.
  • Carbon Offsets: Many operators now contribute to reforestation or renewable energy projects.
  • Reduced Noise Technology: Rotor designs and flight altitude adjustments lessen sound pollution.

You get the full adrenaline rush of flying over Waimea Canyon or the Na Pali Coast while knowing your adventure isn’t harming the environment.

Tips for Choosing an Eco-Friendly Helicopter Tour

Selecting the right tour is as crucial as the flight itself. Here’s a quick checklist:

  • ✅ Verify the operator’s sustainability certifications.
  • ✅ Ask about fuel efficiency and carbon offset programs.
  • ✅ Check reviews for responsible wildlife and landscape practices.
  • ✅ Look for tours offering educational or cultural insights.

By asking the right questions, you ensure your hilo helicopter tours experience is both memorable and mindful.

Making the Most of Your Eco-Friendly Flight

  1. Plan Ahead: Sunrise or sunset flights often provide the best lighting and minimal congestion.
  2. Pack Light: Reduces aircraft weight, improving fuel efficiency.
  3. Engage with Guides: Learn about local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts—knowledge makes the view even richer.

Small choices on your part amplify the positive impact of sustainable tourism.

Real-World Impact: How Your Tour Supports Conservation

Did you know that responsible helicopter tours in Hawaii contribute significantly to environmental preservation? According to a 2024 Hawaii Tourism Authority report, eco-conscious aerial tours have helped fund over $500,000 in habitat restoration projects across the islands.

By choosing safari helicopter tours Kauai or hilo helicopter tours with sustainability programs, you’re not just sightseeing—you’re participating in a conservation movement.

Final Thoughts: Adventure With a Conscience

Eco-friendly helicopter tours prove you don’t have to sacrifice thrill for sustainability. From lush Hilo valleys to Kauai’s majestic cliffs, these experiences showcase Hawaii’s beauty responsibly.

So next time you’re booking your aerial adventure, remember: flying green doesn’t just protect the planet—it enriches your journey.

Ready for takeoff? Choose an eco-friendly tour, capture memories, and leave a positive mark on Hawaii’s landscapes.

Safety Protocols & What To Expect On Your First Helicopter Ride

Helicopter tours are an unforgettable experience for anyone. You can plan your first aerial adventure with us – Safari Helicopters. To keep you safe and comfortable, is our first priority. With us, you know what’ll happen and how we make your experience more enjoyable. You can fly in the sky and experience the green rainforests or areas with volcanoes with Big Island helicopter tours.

In today’s blog, we’ll guide you through safety measures on your helicopter ride.

Pre Flight Safety Briefing

Each passenger receives a comprehensive safety briefing, before onboarding any of our aircraft. In our briefing towards your safety, we can overview the helicopter’s safety features, proper use of seatbelts and headset, emergency procedure, and boarding and exiting protocols. At Safari Helicopters, your safety is our first priority.

Weight & Seating Arrangements

We ask for accurate weight information during booking, to ensure a safe and balanced flight. This allows our team to assign seats based on proper weight distribution. It is crucial for a helicopter’s performance. Our seating is also designed to offer everyone the best possible view while maintaining safety. On our helicopter tours Big Island Hilo and beyond, we provide extra services.

FAA-Certified Aircraft & Pilots

All of our helicopters are maintained. These meet FAA safety standards. We work with experienced pilots. Also, check that they are FAA certified for any flight. Trust Safari Helicopters from take-off to landing.

Wear & Bring

Wear dark-colored comfortable clothes that suit you. It minimises window reflections in your photos. Sunglasses and shoes are recommended. Cameras and phones are also welcome. But each passenger has to look out for their safety and security. Don’t lose any items before boarding.

During the Flight

Once you’re in the air, your pilot will guide you through the sites. Your pilot does live commentary and you can listen to it through your headset. Safari helicopter tours are known for their smooth rides and stunning views. You may fly over active volcanoes, hidden waterfalls, or dramatic coastlines. It depends on your chosen route – especially popular on our Big Island helicopter tours.

Weather Changes

Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable. If weather conditions aren’t safe for flying, we’ll reschedule your tour or provide a full refund. Your safety always comes first.

CONCLUSION

Your first helicopter ride with Safari Helicopters will be both thrilling and safe. By following our safety protocols and knowing what to expect, you can relax and fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii from above. 

Whether you’re booking a scenic flight or a full helicopter tour of the Big Island from Hilo, we’re here to make your experience unforgettable—and safe—from start to finish.

Seasonal Tips: Best Times of Year to Fly Over Hawaiian Landscapes

From lush rainforests and active volcanoes to dramatic sea cliffs and hidden waterfalls, Hawaii is a feast for the eyes—especially from above. But when is the best time to take to the skies? At Safari Helicopters Hawaii, we know that timing can elevate your aerial experience from stunning to unforgettable.

Here’s a seasonal guide to help you choose the best time of year for your Hilo Hawaii helicopter tours and island adventures.

Spring (March – May): Waterfalls at Their Best

Spring in Hawaii is just after the rainy season, meaning the landscape is at its greenest and waterfalls are at full flow. This is a fantastic time to take a helicopter tour, especially on the Big Island or Kauai, where dramatic cascades are more visible from the sky.

If you’re exploring Hilo Hawaii helicopter tours, spring offers lush rainforest views and thundering waterfalls like Akaka Falls at their most vibrant.

Summer (June – August): Clear Skies & Calm Conditions

Summer typically brings drier weather and clearer skies—ideal for flying. The ocean is calmer, making coastal flights incredibly scenic, with better visibility of coral reefs, beaches, and sea cliffs.

At Safari Helicopters Hawaii, summer is a popular time for first-time flyers due to the smoother air and consistent conditions. It’s also perfect for sunrise or sunset flights with less cloud cover.

Fall (September – November): Fewer Crowds, Great Views

Fall offers a nice balance—great weather, fewer tourists, and good flight conditions. With the peak travel season ending, you’ll have a more relaxed experience both in the air and at the helipad.

This is also a great time to explore more remote areas of the islands, as the natural beauty is still vibrant and the weather remains pleasant.

Winter (December – February): Volcanoes & Whale Watching

While winter brings some rain, it’s also the season for dramatic volcano activity and whale sightings. If you’re flying over the Big Island, this is the time to see lava activity (when present) and humpback whales off the coast.

Our Safari Helicopters Hawaii pilots are trained to adjust flight paths for weather, ensuring a safe and scenic experience even in the cooler months.

Final Tip: Book Early, Fly Smart

No matter the season, helicopter tours in Hawaii are in high demand. Booking in advance with Safari Helicopters Hawaii guarantees your seat and lets you plan around the best weather windows.

Volcano Aerial Tours: What You’ll See From Above

When you think about Hawaii, beautiful beaches and green rainforests come to your mind. But you can also enjoy them from high above the sky. Also, you can enjoy the unforgettable sight of volcanoes. A volcano helicopter tour with Safari Helicopters offers you an exciting view. You can see the beauty of nature on that tour.

In today’s blog, we’ll see the incredible bucket list that you can prepare before going on a Volcano Aerial Tour. 

Active Lava Flows

You can also witness the active lava flow, depending on volcanic activity. It is a rare and inspiring sight. On a Hawaii Volcano Helicopter tour, you’ll fly safely above molten rivers of lava. They flow down the volcano’s slopes. This is an amazing contrast between glowing orange lava and black volcanic rock to see.

Volcanic Landscapes

Seeing huge craters like Halemaʻumaʻu Crater from the air gives you a much better and more impressive view. It’s not possible from the ground level. You’ll also explore – hardened lava fields, steam vents, and surreal moon-like terrain, etc. 

Also, pilots provide live commentary in Volcanoes National Park Safari. By this, you can understand the history and science behind that.

Rainforests & Waterfall

Volcanic Terrain is not only included in the journey. Many helicopter tours fly over lush rainforests. You can also enjoy hidden waterfalls and remote valleys surrounding Hawaii’s volcanoes. These showcase diverse ecosystems. You can feel fresh in between this greenery.

Wildlife from the Sky

You can also see different birds high above the land. Birds like Hawaiian hawks are a glimpse of Hawaii’s unique wildlife. You can better understand how nature lives and adapt from the sky.

Choose Safari Helicopters

You can choose Safari Helicopters for safety and experience. Our volcano helicopter tour packages are designed to show you the very best of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. Also, provide a smooth and comfortable ride. Our company follows all safety rules and regulations, keeps passengers safe, and helps to understand what they want to explore.

A Hawaii volcano helicopter tour isn’t just a ride—it’s a front-row seat to Earth’s most dramatic natural processes. From soaring over glowing craters to spotting hidden waterfalls, it’s a journey that will stay with you forever.

Pros and Cons of Helicopter Tours vs Other Aerial Tours

Exploring the breathtaking views of the Hawaii island from high above the sky is very curious. Whether you’re booking kauai helicopter tours or hilo hawaii helicopter tours, helps to understand the difference between helicopter tours and other aerial tours. By other aerial tours, we mean options like hot air balloons and small airplanes.

In this blog, we’ll see the pros and cons of helicopter tours and other aerial tours.

Choosing Helicopter Tours

To connect with nature closely, you can choose helicopter tours. They can hover and fly low. You can feel amazing views like waterfalls, volcanoes, mountains, etc. For example, you can take a tour to hidden valleys and pristine coastlines with kauai helicopter tours. Otherwise, they are hard to reach. Similarly, hilo hawaii helicopter tours provide the ride to view the lush rainforests and volcanoes.

Helicopters are smaller and more flexible than planes. They allow you for a more personalized experience. From their large windows, you can capture plenty of photos and your adventure.

What Are the Downsides?

On the other hand, helicopter tours can be more expensive than other aerial options. The noise of the helicopter might also distract from the natural sounds of the environment. In addition to this, flights also depend on weather. It may sometimes lead to cancellation.

Comparison to Other Aerial Options

Hot air balloon rides are a calm and peaceful way to float gently above the land. But they are slower and less flexible. But like a helicopter, you can’t stop or land near certain spots. Fixed-wing aircraft tours cover more ground and are often more affordable. But they can’t fly as low or access hidden areas. 

Each option shows something special. But helicopter tours are the best, if you want the most exciting and detailed views.

CONCLUSION

You have to think upon the kind of experience you want and your budget before you pick Kauai helicopter tours, Hilo Hawaii helicopter tours, or another aerial ride. If you want to see Hawaii’s natural beauty up close and take amazing photos, helicopter tours are a great choice.

 

Big Island Helicopter Tours vs. Boat Tours: Which One Should You Choose?

When you land on the Big Island, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—in the best way. Volcanoes rumble beneath your feet, waterfalls tumble down lush cliffs, and the ocean stretches endlessly in every direction. You know you want to explore… but should you take to the skies on one of the famous Big Island helicopter tours, or hit the water with a boat tour?

I’ve done both, and here’s my honest breakdown—plus some insider tips I wish I knew before booking.

The Helicopter Experience: Hawaii From the Sky

The first time I stepped into a helicopter in Hilo, I was nervous. The pilot, a friendly guy who’d flown tours for over 15 years, joked, “Don’t worry—this bird has better views than any rental car.” He wasn’t kidding.

As we lifted off, the world transformed. I saw the fiery heart of Kīlauea glowing beneath the clouds, then drifted over deep valleys so green they didn’t look real. The perspective is something photos never capture.

Insider Tips for Helicopter Tours

  • Best Time of Day: Morning flights are usually calmer and clearer. Afternoon flights can get cloudy around Hilo.
  • Where to Fly From: Hilo tours often focus on volcanoes, while Kona flights show off the coastlines.
  • What to Wear: Dark clothing cuts window glare in photos. (I learned the hard way with a white shirt!)
  • Motion Sickness: Sit up front next to the pilot if you’re prone to nausea—it’s smoother.

Helicopter tours aren’t cheap (think $300+ per person), but if it’s your first time on the Big Island, the “wow” factor is unbeatable.

The Boat Tour Adventure: Hawaii From the Water

f helicopters are about perspective, boats are about connection. One of my favorite nights on the Big Island was snorkeling with manta rays in Kona. Floating in the water, watching giant rays loop and dive beneath me, I felt like I was in a dream.

Boat tours also bring you face-to-face with dolphins, turtles, and, in winter, breaching humpback whales. The energy on board is different too—more social, more laid back.

Insider Tips for Boat Tours

  • Pick the Right Season: Whale watching runs from December to April. Summer months are great for calm snorkeling conditions.
  • Kona vs. Hilo: Kona has calmer waters and more tour options. Hilo waters can be rougher.
  • Seasickness Hack: Ginger chews or Dramamine help. Stay topside with your eyes on the horizon.
  • Bring Cash: Some smaller operators prefer tips in cash, and trust me, the crews earn them.

Boat tours range widely in price. A half-day snorkel trip might run $120–$150, while luxury sunset sails with dinner climb higher.

Quick Comparison: Helicopter vs. Boat

Feature Helicopter Tour Boat Tour
Views Lava fields, valleys, cliffs Marine life, reefs, coastline
Best Base Hilo (volcano focus), Kona (coast focus) Mostly Kona (calmer waters)
Duration 45–60 minutes 3–5 hours
Budget Higher ($300–$500) Moderate ($100–$200+)
Family Fit Not great for small kids Perfect for all ages

 

My Local-Learned Advice

If you’re on the fence, here’s my advice after a few trips:

  1. If you only have one shot, go helicopter. It gives you the “big picture” of the island in under an hour.
  2. If you’ve got time, add a boat tour. The manta ray night snorkel is one of the most magical things I’ve ever done.
  3. Mix it up depending on the season. Winter? Boat for whales. Rainy season? Helicopter for epic waterfalls.
  4. Don’t overpack your schedule. Tours can be tiring—plan a beach day in between to recharge.

Conclusion

So, are Big Island helicopter tours better than boat tours? Honestly, it depends on what kind of memory you want. Helicopters make you feel like a bird skimming the clouds. Boats remind you you’re part of the ocean. Both reveal sides of Hawaii you’ll never forget.

If you can swing it, do both. If not, let your heart—and maybe your stomach—decide. Either way, the Big Island won’t disappoint.

Discover Hilo from Above: Best Hawaii Helicopter Tours with Safari Helicopters

If there’s one thing I’ll never forget about Hilo, it’s the first time I saw it from the air. I’d done the usual stuff—walked to Rainbow Falls, driven through the rainforest roads—but sitting in that Safari Helicopters chopper and lifting off? Completely different ballgame. Suddenly, Hilo wasn’t just another Hawaiian town. It was a living, breathing island with rivers of lava frozen mid-flow, valleys too deep to hike, and waterfalls that looked like nature’s curtains dropping into infinity.

So, if you’re wondering whether Hilo Hawaii helicopter tours are worth it, let me just say: they’re the kind of thing you’ll still be talking about years later.

Why Hilo Is Perfect for a Helicopter Tour?

People often ask me, “Why not just book from Kona?” Fair question. Kona’s great if you’re into resorts and sunny beaches. But Hilo? Hilo is wild.

From this side of the island, you’re practically sitting on the doorstep of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. You don’t waste half your flight getting there—you’re in it, fast. Add in the fact that Hilo’s the wettest city in the U.S. (yep, it rains almost daily), and you’ve got endless waterfalls, emerald valleys, and misty rainforests.

On a clear morning, when the sun’s breaking through the clouds and hitting the waterfalls just right, it feels like you’re flying through a dream.

Why Go with Safari Helicopters?

Look, there are a handful of companies that’ll take you up, but here’s why I went with Safari Helicopters and why I recommend them:

  • Everyone gets a window seat. No leaning over a stranger to snap your shot.
  • The pilots are storytellers. Ours didn’t just point out landmarks—he told legends about Pele (the goddess of fire) and explained how the 2018 Kīlauea eruption literally changed the island’s map.
  • Safety first. Their track record’s solid, and when you’re trusting someone with your life at 3,000 feet, that counts.
  • They feel personal. It didn’t feel like a conveyor belt of tourists. The vibe was relaxed, friendly, and surprisingly intimate for something so big.

    What You’ll Actually See Up There

    Alright, here’s the fun part. Depending on weather and volcanic activity, a typical Safari Helicopters flight out of Hilo gives you:

    Volcanoes That Feel Alive

    Flying over Kīlauea is surreal. You’ll see massive craters, steam vents hissing like kettles, and (if you’re lucky) fresh lava flows glowing against the black rock. It’s humbling—like staring at the Earth’s beating heart.

    Waterfalls You Can’t Reach by Foot

    Sure, you can drive to Akaka Falls or Rainbow Falls, but from above, they look completely different. Plus, Safari takes you over hidden waterfalls deep in valleys that hikers can’t access. One of the passengers on my flight literally gasped out loud when we flew past a set of twin falls tucked into a green canyon.

    Rugged Coastlines

    The coastline east of Hilo is raw and dramatic. Jagged lava cliffs meet turquoise water in a way that makes you wonder how this planet even exists. If you’ve ever wanted that perfect “I can’t believe this is real” photo, this is where you’ll get it.

    Tips Before You Go

    Over the years, I’ve picked up a few things you’ll thank me for later:

    • Wear dark clothes. Light colors reflect in the window and ruin your photos.
    • Travel light. Leave the big camera bag. A phone or small camera is plenty.
    • Book morning flights. The weather’s usually calmer and clearer earlier in the day.
    • Eat something small. Flying on an empty stomach isn’t fun, but trust me—neither is flying on a heavy one.
    • Don’t stress about filming everything. Take a few shots, then just sit back and watch. You’ll want to remember it with your eyes, not just your screen.

      A Quick Story from the Sky

      On my last trip, I sat next to a family from California. Their teenage daughter was glued to her phone at first—scrolling TikTok even as we lifted off. But the second we flew over Mauna Loa’s lava fields, she dropped the phone in her lap and whispered, “Oh my god.”

      For the next 45 minutes, she didn’t touch the phone once. That’s what these tours do. They snap you out of your everyday world and make you feel tiny—in the best possible way.

      Is It Worth the Price?

      Helicopter tours in Hawaii aren’t cheap. You’re looking at $250–$350 per seat. I get it—that’s a chunk of change. But here’s the thing: people blow that much on a spa day, a round of golf, or even a couple of nights of cocktails and dinners. Those things fade. This doesn’t.

      If you’ve ever wanted a “bucket list” experience, this is it. And with Safari Helicopters, you’re not just paying for a seat—you’re paying for memories you can’t put a price on.

      FAQs People Always Ask Me

      How long are the tours?
      Most run 45–60 minutes. Just enough to see everything without getting restless.

      Do kids enjoy it?
      Yes! Kids over 2 can fly, and from what I’ve seen, they’re often the most excited passengers.

      What about motion sickness?
      It’s rare. The flights are surprisingly smooth, but if you’re prone to it, sit near the front and look out at the horizon.

      What happens if the weather’s bad?
      Safari’s good about rescheduling or refunding if conditions aren’t safe.

      Final Thoughts: Why Hilo by Helicopter Is Unforgettable

      At the end of the day, you can drive, hike, and swim your way through Hawaii (and you should). But only a helicopter gives you the full picture—the scale, the drama, the perspective that makes you realize just how alive these islands are.

      So if you’re heading to the Big Island, carve out an hour and go up with Safari Helicopters. I promise, it’ll be one of those rare experiences that lives longer in your memory than in your photo album.

      Because once you’ve seen Hilo from above, you’ll never look at Hawaii the same way again.

Unforgettable Adventures: Volcanoes National Park Safari & Jurassic Park Helicopter Tours

Have you ever stood so close to a volcano that you could feel the heat rising from the ground? Or flown above waterfalls so remote they seem like something out of a movie? (Well, technically Jurassic Park the movie!) Hawaii gives you the chance to do both—on a Volcanoes National Park Safari and a Jurassic Park Helicopter Tour.

I’ll be honest: these aren’t just tours. They’re experiences that change the way you see nature. The smell of sulfur, the sound of crashing waves against black lava cliffs, and the sheer adrenaline of lifting off in a helicopter—it’s hard to put into words, but I’ll give it a shot.

Why a Volcanoes National Park Safari Belongs on Your List

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park isn’t your average sightseeing stop. It’s one of the few places where you can literally watch the earth being created. A Volcanoes National Park Safari gets you right into the heart of it, without the stress of figuring out where to go or what to see.

Must-See Spots Along the Way:

  • Kīlauea Volcano: Active, unpredictable, and mesmerizing.
  • Thurston Lava Tube: Walking through it feels like stepping into another world.
  • Halemaʻumaʻu Crater: The glow at night is unforgettable if the lava lake is active.
  • Chain of Craters Road: A drive where the landscape changes every few miles.

What makes a guided safari different? The stories. Guides share legends about Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, and explain how entire communities have had to adapt to living alongside an active volcano.

Jurassic Park Helicopter Tours: The Ultimate Aerial Adventure

Now, let’s switch gears—from ground to sky. The Jurassic Park Helicopter Tours are something else entirely. If you’ve seen the film, you already know how dramatic Kauai’s landscape is. But seeing it from the window of a helicopter? That’s next-level.

What You’ll Fly Over:

  • Jurassic Falls (Manawaiopuna Falls): The exact spot where the chopper landed in the movie.
  • Nā Pali Coast: Jagged cliffs dropping into turquoise waters—no road leads here, only boats or helicopters.
  • Waimea Canyon: Vibrant red and green ridges that look almost painted.
  • Mount Waialeale: Shrouded in mist and home to countless hidden waterfalls.

The pilots aren’t just flying you around—they’re storytellers too. Many share fun trivia from the movie set, point out secret beaches, or even throw in a Hawaiian proverb or two.

Choosing the Right Safari Helicopters

Not every helicopter ride is created equal. Some companies fly “doors-off,” which is thrilling if you love photography (and don’t mind the wind in your face). Others have big wraparound windows for a more comfortable ride.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

  1. Safety First: Stick to FAA-certified operators with excellent records.
  2. Timing: Early morning flights usually have the clearest skies.
  3. Duration: Short tours are cheaper but skip a lot. Longer ones (60–90 minutes) show you more.
  4. Comfort: If you get motion sickness, request a front seat.

Tip from a fellow traveler: bring a light jacket. Even in Hawaii, helicopter rides can get chilly up high.

The Best Combo: Land + Air

You don’t really get the full picture until you do both. Imagine starting your morning walking through lava tubes and gazing into steaming craters on a Volcanoes National Park Safari. Then, later that afternoon, you’re hovering over waterfalls on a Jurassic Park Helicopter Tour.

It’s the contrast that makes it magic—the raw fire of the Big Island, followed by the lush green cliffs of Kauai.

Traveler Tips That Make a Difference

  • Pack smart: Hiking shoes for the safari, a jacket for the helicopter, and a solid camera for both.
  • Book early: These tours are wildly popular and can sell out weeks in advance.
  • Balance your trip: Mix adventure days with slower ones. Trust me, after a safari and helicopter ride, you’ll want some beach time.

Final Thoughts

A trip to Hawaii can be whatever you make it: beaches, luaus, or just quiet sunsets. But if you want an adventure that you’ll still be talking about years later, the combo of a Volcanoes National Park Safari and Jurassic Park Helicopter Tours is unbeatable.

It’s not just sightseeing—it’s about feeling alive in some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet.

So, are you ready to trade ordinary for unforgettable? Book your safari helicopters tour and let Hawaii blow your mind—literally.