Hakalua Forest Reserve Exclusive Adventure
Nestled high above the island’s shoreline, the dense rainforest of Hakalau is home to some of the world’s rarest plants and animals. Join us as we focus on the incredible history of Hawaii’s endemic flora and fauna, and search for rare birds. Great for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Highlights
Gain entry into a restricted-access National Wildlife Refuge
Discover rare native plants and animals, including carnivorous caterpillars and happy-faced spiders
Search for native & endangered birds including Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, Akepa, Akiapolaau, and Iiwi
Our interpretive guides are expert bird trackers
Duration
Around 11 to 12 hours.
Rated
Moderate.
Group Size
Max 9
Schedule
Departures are dependent on availability of restricted-access permits. Tour time is 11 – 12 hours round trip, departing from Hawaii Forest & Trail Kona Headquarters, Queen’s Marketplace at Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Highlands Shopping Center in Waikoloa Village.
What’s Included
Deli style lunch with assorted beverages.
Gear Provided
Walking sticks, binoculars, day packs, and rain jackets.
What to Bring & Wear
Sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots, long pants, a light rain jacket and a reusable water bottle .
Restrictions
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. We sometimes encounter cool, wet or muddy conditions. Please note the Refuge access road can be rough & bumpy and requires 4WD. Due to the possible rough road conditions this tour may not be suitable for those guests who have neck or back issues or those who are prone to motion sickness. Other tour restrictions may apply.
| Hakalua Forest Reserve Exclusive Adventure | |
| Per Person 8+ | $235 |
- Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation.
- Private tours: Customers will receive a full refund with 72 hours notice of cancellation.
Cancellations within the cancellation period and “no-shows” will be charged the FULL AMOUNT of the tour.
- How much hiking do we do? Expect to cover approximately 2 to 4 miles in 4 hours
- Is there elevation gain? Over the course of the hike, the elevation change is approximately 650’
- What is the difference in the birds seen on Hakalau vs. Rainforest & Dryforest? The Akepa and Hawaii Creeper are found on our tour through Hakalau, while the Palila is found on the Rainforest & Dryforest Adventure. Akiapolaau can be found on both adventures, though is more dependably seen on Rain/Dry
- Is it possible to use a spotting scope? Due to the behavior of Hawaii’s endemic birds, the use of a spotting scope can be challenging. If you feel up to the test, we do encourage you to bring your own birdwatching gear. We do provide binoculars on the tour for guest use
- Is it possible to get photos of the birds? Typically, there are many opportunities for a determined photographer to photograph birds along the way
