Went on this tour because my bucket list includes seeing all the National Parks. Really didn't get a long time in the park, we passed some things I would have liked to see, but the bus driver made a special stop for me because I told him I wanted a photo of the official National Park sign. The Lava tube was interesting but beware of the mud, be careful of what shoes you wear. Rainbow falls was also pretty and we seemed to have ample time for photos there. There was also a short stop at Akatsuka orchid gardens which was interesting.
The trip overview does not tell the whole story. While we were aware that no food was provided by the tour, what we did not realize was that we needed to bring food/lunch with us. There were no stops for food from the start of the tour until 2:30 p.m. This meant that we did not have anything substantial to eat since breakfast at 8:30 a.m. The result was my wife becoming ill with a migraine!! As well, the tour was done in reverse of what is listed on the website and also started with a lengthy stop at a candy factory that was not listed in the itinerary. Our tour guide, Hank, while knowledgable of the Big Island, talked non-stop the whole time we were on the bus. Unfortunately about 70 of this related to his personal life and was unrelated to the tour itinerary. We would have enjoyed some time just to look at the scenery and reflect on the beauty of the Island and to have access to food other than candy. People need to be aware that there is no opportunity for food on this tour, until near the end, unless they bring their own. This is most definitely a health issue, particularly for people who need to eat at regular times. This ruined our day, of what should have been an enjoyable and informative outing.
Great excursion! Driver was very knowledgeable and entertaining!