Question 1

I’m arriving by cruise ship. Can I still join the tour?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Our tours are designed with Hilo cruise ship passengers in mind. We monitor cruise ship schedules and adjust pickup times as needed to accommodate arrival changes.Prior to your tour, you’ll receive detailed pickup instructions. Your guide will be waiting with a Big Island Family Tours sign at the designated meeting location near the Hilo cruise port.In the rare event that your ship is unable to dock in Hilo, you will receive a full refund for your tour reservation.

Question 2

What should I bring and wear for the tour?

Accepted Answer

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Weather conditions can vary throughout the day, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is encouraged.Feel free to bring a camera to capture your adventure; however, please note that drones are prohibited in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and many other protected areas.Helpful items to consider include a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a rain jacket or poncho, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.Due to limited vehicle space, luggage and large suitcases cannot be accommodated on shared tours. Small bags or backpacks that can fit on your lap or beneath your seat are welcome. Guests traveling with luggage should contact us in advance or consider booking a private tour.

Question 3

Can children join the tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Families are welcome on our tours. In accordance with Hawaiʻi law, children must be properly secured in an age- and size-appropriate child restraint system: Children under 2 years old must ride in a rear-facing car seat with a harness.Children ages 2 through 3 must ride in a rear-facing or forward-facing car seat with a harness.Children ages 4 through 9 must ride in a child safety seat or booster seat unless they are taller than 4 feet 9 inches.Children who are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall may use the vehicle’s lap and shoulder seat belt.Parents and guardians are responsible for ensuring their child is properly secured during the tour. Car Seats & booster seats may be available upon request with advance notice, subject to availability. If your child requires a car seat or you have questions about child passenger safety requirements, please contact us before booking.

Question 4

Are there any physical or health considerations for this tour?

Accepted Answer

Guests should be comfortable entering and exiting the vehicle and walking on uneven surfaces, paved paths, and stairs that may be encountered at various tour stops. If assistance is needed, guests should travel with a companion who can help them.As conditions on Hawaiʻi Island can change unexpectedly, guests should be prepared to follow any safety instructions or evacuation orders issued by local, state, or federal authorities.Individuals with respiratory sensitivities should be aware that volcanic areas may contain naturally occurring volcanic emissions, including sulfur dioxide and other gases. Guests who are prone to motion sickness should also consider that the tour involves extended periods of driving, winding roads, and changes in elevation throughout the day.

Question 5

Will there be restroom stops during the tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our tours are planned with regular restroom stops throughout the day to help ensure a comfortable experience for all guests. Your guide will point out upcoming restroom locations and can assist with planning additional stops when possible. If you have a medical condition or special restroom needs, please let us know before your tour so we can do our best to accommodate your request.

Question 6

Is smoking or vaping allowed during the tour?

Accepted Answer

To ensure a comfortable experience for all guests, smoking and vaping are not permitted inside our vehicles at any time. Guests may smoke or vape during designated tour stops where permitted by local laws, park regulations, and property rules.

Question 7

Can I bring or consume alcohol during the tour?

Accepted Answer

No. Hawaiʻi law prohibits open containers and the consumption of alcohol in moving vehicles. For the safety of all guests, alcohol may not be consumed inside the tour vehicle at any time.

Question 8

Can I bring a stroller, wheelchair, or mobility device?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but please let us know when booking if you plan to bring a stroller, wheelchair, walker, or other mobility device. You can include this information in the booking notes or contact us directly before your tour.Our vehicles do not have wheelchair lifts and cannot accommodate motorized scooters or non-collapsible wheelchairs. Any mobility device must be foldable and able to fit through the vehicle doors and within available storage space.For safety reasons, our guides may be unable to assist with loading, unloading, or transporting mobility devices. Guests requiring assistance should travel with a companion who can help as needed.Space is limited, and large strollers may not be suitable for every tour. Please contact us in advance so we can help determine the best option for your group.

Question 9

Will there be opportunities to swim or snorkel during the tour?

Accepted Answer

Our tours do not include swimming or snorkeling activities. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, guests are asked to remain out of the water during all tour stops.

Question 10

Will I see active lava?

Accepted Answer

Lava viewing opportunities depend entirely on current volcanic activity and conditions at the time of your tour. Because volcanoes are constantly changing, visible lava cannot be guaranteed. Regardless of lava activity, you’ll experience the incredible landscapes and unique geological features that make Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park one of the world’s most remarkable destinations.

Question 11

Can I take sand, rocks, or lava home as a souvenir?

Accepted Answer

No. Hawaiʻi law protects many natural resources, including sand, rocks, coral, and other materials found on beaches and in volcanic areas. Removing these items can harm the island’s fragile ecosystems and is prohibited in many locations.You may also hear about Pele’s Curse, a well-known Hawaiian legend that says taking lava rocks, sand, or other natural items from Hawaiʻi may bring bad luck. Whether you believe the legend or not, we encourage all visitors to respect the land and help preserve the beauty of the islands by leaving natural features where they belong.

Question 12

Are gratuities included in the tour price?

Accepted Answer

Gratuities are not included in the tour price but are always appreciated. If you feel your guide provided exceptional service and helped make your experience memorable, tips are a wonderful way to show your appreciation.

Question 13

Can I book at the last minute?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! If online booking is no longer available, feel free to contact us directly. We’ll do our best to accommodate last-minute requests whenever space allows.

Question 14

What happens if it rains or the park is closed?

Accepted Answer

The Big Island’s weather can be unpredictable, and that’s part of the adventure! We operate rain or shine and may occasionally adjust our itinerary due to weather, park closures, road conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances. When necessary, we’ll substitute alternative stops to ensure you still enjoy a memorable Big Island experience. Refunds are not available for itinerary changes beyond our control.

Question 15

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Guests who cancel 48 hours or more before their scheduled tour will receive a full refund. Cancellations made between 24 and 48 hours before the tour are eligible for a 50% refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled tour are non-refundable. Guests who do not arrive for their scheduled tour without prior notice will be considered a no-show and will not receive a refund.

Everything you need to know