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Cancellation & Safety Policy

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Cancellation Policy

Guest Cancellations

  • More than 24 hours before tour: Full refund, no questions asked
  • Less than 24 hours before tour: 50% cancellation fee applies
  • No-show: No refund (please contact us if you're running late)

How to Cancel

To cancel your reservation, contact us immediately by phone at +1 (808) 640-1351 or email ellen@dpahawaii.com. Cancellations are effective when confirmed by our team.

Rescheduling

You may reschedule your tour at no charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure, subject to availability. We'll work with you to find a new date that works for everyone.

Weather-Related Cancellations

Cancellation by Discover Paradise Adventures

In the rare event that we must cancel or significantly modify a tour due to unsafe weather conditions, volcanic activity, or other circumstances beyond our control, you will receive:

  • Full refund to your original payment method, OR
  • Free rescheduling to any available date during your trip, OR
  • Credit toward any other tour (valid for 1 year)

Weather in Hawaiʻi

The Big Island has diverse microclimates. Light rain is common and tours typically proceed (we provide rain ponchos). We monitor weather closely and make safety-based decisions. If conditions are questionable, we'll contact you 2-4 hours before departure to discuss options.

Volcanic Activity

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park may close due to volcanic activity, air quality concerns, or other safety issues. If your tour includes the park and it's closed, we'll modify the itinerary or offer rescheduling/refund options.

Safety Guidelines

Medical & Physical Requirements

Guests should be in reasonable health appropriate for their chosen tour. Please inform us when booking if you have:

  • Heart conditions, respiratory issues, or mobility limitations
  • Recent surgeries or injuries
  • Pregnancy (some tours not recommended after first trimester)
  • Severe allergies or medical conditions requiring special accommodation

We'll work with you to determine the best tour for your situation or customize a private experience. Your safety is our priority.

What We Provide for Safety

  • Certified guides trained in first aid, CPR, and wilderness emergency response
  • Two-way communication equipment on all tours
  • First aid kits and emergency supplies
  • Comprehensive liability insurance
  • Regular vehicle maintenance and safety inspections
  • Adherence to all National Park Service regulations

Guest Responsibilities

For everyone's safety and enjoyment, we ask that you:

  • Follow all guide instructions and stay with your group
  • Wear appropriate footwear (closed-toe shoes required on most tours)
  • Stay on designated trails and respect barriers
  • Bring necessary medications and inform guides of any concerns
  • Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed
  • Respect wildlife - maintain safe distances and never feed animals
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles

Children

Children are welcome on most tours (minimum age varies by tour). Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times. Car seats/boosters required by law (we can provide if requested at booking).

Alcohol & Substances

Guests under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted on tours. No refund will be issued. Please enjoy Hawaiʻi responsibly!

COVID-19 & Health Protocols

We follow all current Hawaii state and CDC guidelines. Our current practices include:

  • Regular sanitization of vehicles and equipment
  • Hand sanitizer available throughout tours
  • Flexibility to maintain comfortable spacing
  • Guides monitor their health and follow sick-day policies

If you're feeling unwell, please reschedule - we'll waive cancellation fees for illness-related changes.

Liability Waiver

All guests must sign a liability waiver before participating in tours. The waiver will be sent via email after booking and must be completed by all adult participants. Parents/ guardians sign for minors.

While we maintain the highest safety standards, adventure tourism involves inherent risks. By participating, you acknowledge these risks and agree to our terms and conditions.

Questions?

If you have questions about our policies or need to discuss a specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact us:

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