Adventure FAQs

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into Hilo International Airport (ITO) and out of Kona International Airport (KOA).

What time should my flight arrive (time for the welcome meeting)?

Ideally before 4pm. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 6pm onwards starting at the hotel.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

If you’ve booked to fly home from Kona International Airport (KOA) , you can depart at any time. Hilo International Airport is further away so you’ll need to plan transportation with plenty of time to get there.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you’ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.

However, if you’ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer. 

Please also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you’ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure’s departure date. You’ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won’t be chasing you. That’s why it’s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.

Departure transfers are typically not included due to travellers leaving at varying times.

Are tips included?

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

• Pack Leader/Driver: 20 USD per person, per day
• Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, restaurants, etc.

However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

Do I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information. US citizens are required to have either a valid passport or Real ID in order to fly within the US.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
• Residents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

• UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.
• US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.
• Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.

3. Government travel advice

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

We recommend budgeting around 50-60 USD per day.

What fitness levels do I need for this trip?

We recommend having a read through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness. Overall, the trip is relatively relaxed so no real level of fitness is needed. That said, the elevation gain on the Mauna Kea experience can be challenging for some. For more information, please reach out to our team.

What’s the elevation gain on Mauna Kea, and how is it managed?

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii, and the altitude can feel challenging. To join this excursion, you’ll need to be able to walk briskly for 100 yards and climb into the van unaided. It isn’t suitable for anyone with heart or respiratory issues, high blood pressure, back pain, motion sickness, or for pregnant women. If you have any health concerns, please check with your doctor first. For everyone else, our Pack Leader sets a gentle pace and allows time to adjust, so you can simply enjoy the breathtaking views from above the clouds.

Are there any weight or seating limits on Mauna Kea?

Yes. For this activity, step stools are rated up to 250 lbs (115 kg), and guests must be able to fit comfortably into a single seat. These requirements ensure a safe and comfortable experience at high altitude.

Is Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park safe to visit?

Absolutely. The park is carefully monitored by rangers and scientists, with public areas only open when conditions are safe. You’ll explore alongside your Pack Leader, so you can focus on the awe-inspiring lava landscapes with peace of mind.

Why isn't the manta-ray snorkel included – and how can I book it?

The manta-ray night snorkel is one of the Big Island’s most magical experiences — after sunset, you’ll float under the stars as these gentle giants glide through illuminated waters. We’ve chosen to keep it as an optional add-on rather than a fixed inclusion.

That’s because it’s a specialist activity suited only to confident swimmers with prior snorkelling experience, who can safely get on and off the boat in limited light. By keeping it optional, we make sure every traveller feels comfortable and included, without limiting the rest of the group.

If you’d like to join, simply book the 8:30 pm tour on Day 4 with Sea Quest Hawaii, and we recommend reserving around 30 days before departure as spots fill quickly. For those who take part, it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Will the itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities, and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.

Why is this trip more expensive than other US destinations?

Hawaii is one of the most expensive US destinations, driven by island logistics, limited hotel availability and premium excursion costs. Everything has to be shipped in, and that naturally pushes prices higher — often 50–100% more than mainland adventures.

That said, our trip offers excellent value for the level of inclusions. Travelling with a group tour also helps make Hawaii more accessible and cost-effective, giving you all the highlights without the high solo costs of organising it independently.