We really enjoyed both the volcano and waterfall tour. We were able to walk through a volcano tube and saw first hand, the stark contrast between the dry volcano area and the lush rainforest.
We did also have an unexpected yet heartwarming display of the aloha spirit.
A young couple on the bus had run out of milk for their infant child and the baby was hungry and getting fussy. Harvey, our tour guide knew where there was a store kind of off the main road and pulled off so the couple could make a milk stop. Apparently there was a problem. All I could hear was the couple telling Harvey that they would just get a cab back to the destination. It seemed the couple did not want to be a bother for the rest of the tour, though I don't think anyone had thought that. Harvey then got off the bus and went in and helped with whatever was the problem. The couple was able to get milk for the baby and continue with us on the tour. I thought this was way above and beyond the call of duty. I was certainly impressed with our guide. He saved the day for the baby, mom and dad. Oh yeah! Harvey also was very knowledgeable and entertaining. He is a real gem and truly one with the aloha spirit.
Dave
Great to get up close and personal with the volcano's and lava flows well worth the trip, stopping at the Nut Farm and the Orchad Plantaion were welcome stops, Dids get to see the rainbow in the falls but still worthwhile, A great bus trip with a very good driver and commontary.
We could not go to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park due to the government shutdown. The tour operator adjusted by taking us to the larger Akaka Falls and down to the lava flows at Kalapana beach. Plus quick stops at the zoo and a candy factory, and the Mauna Kea macadamia plantation. Bus driver/tour guide Sun was great and made the best of the situation.