Our tour guide & driver, Mark, was outstanding. He was very knowledgeable, safety-oriented, and had good presentation skills. It made for an enjoyable experience. The hike is considered "moderate" with initial uphill hiking through brush, but you are offered walking sticks that are highly recommended. The hike is worthwhile as you get to descend into a lava funnel with a rope and finally scale the spine/edge of the crater. Mark took frequent rests for our small group of 9 to appreciate the flora & fauna which he described clearly and in a fashion to capture your interest. The tour offers you replenishing drinks and energy bars/snacks, and a backpack if you failed to bring one - Hawaii Forest & Trails does look out for you. And this is what I personally would like to stress. I will definitely check out this company again for other tours.