Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems of the Big Island can be a truly remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts. The Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the renowned Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, home to an array of endemic and endangered bird species. This comprehensive 12-hour journey promises to transport participants on a captivating adventure, where they can witness the wonders of Hawaii’s diverse avifauna while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty that defines the island. For those with a passion for adventure and a deep appreciation for the natural world, this tour promises an unforgettable encounter that may just leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 12-hour tour exploring the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, a renowned birdwatching destination featuring endemic and endangered Hawaiian bird species.

• Maximum group size of 9 participants, with guided exploration, lunch, and transportation in a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van, as well as essential gear provided.

• Convenient pickup and drop-off service from designated locations on the Big Island, with a 2-hour van ride to and from the primary destination.

• Highlights the ecological significance of the Hakalau Forest and provides opportunities to observe rare native plants and carnivorous caterpillars.

• Not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those prone to motion sickness, due to the nature of the terrain and transportation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

This comprehensive Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour offers participants the opportunity to explore the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, known for its diverse array of endemic and endangered bird species.

Priced at $246.07 per person, the 12-hour tour has a maximum group size of 9 participants and is offered in English.

Pickup and drop-off services are provided at several convenient locations, and the tour includes a guided exploration, lunch, and transportation in a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter.

Participants will be equipped with essential gear such as daypacks, hiking sticks, rain gear, and binoculars, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural wonders of the Hawaiian wilderness.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour offers pickup and drop-off services at several convenient locations, including Queens Marketplace, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Waikoloa Plaza, and the Hawaii Forest & Trail Kona Headquarters. This ensures easy access for participants regardless of their starting point on the Big Island.

The tour begins with a 2-hour van ride from the pickup locations to the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, which serves as the primary destination for the day’s activities. After the guided tour, hiking, and wildlife viewing, the van will then transport participants back to the original pickup points over the course of another 2-hour drive.

This streamlined transportation plan allows guests to focus on the tour’s nature-based experiences without the hassle of navigating themselves.

Hakalau Forest Wildlife

At the heart of the tour lies the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, a renowned birdwatching destination that serves as the primary focus of the day’s activities.

This expansive protected area is home to a diverse array of native Hawaiian birds, including several endangered and rare species that visitors will have the opportunity to observe during the guided tour. Among the highlights are the Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, Iiwi, Pueo, ‘Akiapōlā’au, Hawai’i Creeper, and the ‘Io or Hawaiian hawk.

Along With the avian wonders, the refuge also boasts rare native plants and the captivating presence of carnivorous caterpillars, providing a comprehensive natural experience for participants.

Included Amenities

A comprehensive suite of amenities and provisions is included in the tour package, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for participants.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off service from designated locations, as well as transportation in a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van.

Participants will be equipped with daypacks, hiking sticks, rain gear, reef-safe sunscreen, and binoculars to enhance their wildlife viewing experience.

Plus, the tour provides breakfast snacks and a deli-style lunch, as well as a water station for refills.

These inclusions cater to the needs of the participants, allowing them to focus on the exceptional birding and hiking activities within the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Unsuitable Participants

Despite the comprehensive amenities provided, the Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour is not suitable for certain groups of participants.

Children under 8 years of age, pregnant women, individuals with back problems or mobility impairments, and those prone to motion sickness are advised against joining this excursion.

The tour involves:

1. Traversing uneven and rocky terrain, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues.

2. Potential exposure to cool, wet, or muddy conditions, which may exacerbate certain health conditions.

3. The possibility of experiencing motion sickness during the 2-hour van transportation to and from the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, participants are advised to bring a hat, jacket, long pants, weather-appropriate clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a reusable water bottle.

These items will help protect against the varied weather conditions that may be encountered during the tour, which can range from cool and wet to muddy.

It is important to dress in layers, as the temperature and precipitation can fluctuate throughout the day.

Plus, closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended for navigating the uneven and potentially rocky terrain of the Hakalau Forest.

Restricted Items

Certain items are not permitted on the Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour for the safety and comfort of all participants. Specifically, the tour does not allow sandals, pets, shorts, smoking, alcohol, or drugs. Open-toed shoes are also prohibited, as they may not provide adequate protection or traction on the uneven terrain encountered during the hike.

The tour organizers have set these restrictions to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Participants are advised to adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Wear closed-toe, sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

2. Refrain from bringing pets or consuming any substances during the tour.

3. Dress appropriately in layers to account for the varying weather conditions.

Hiking Terrain and Conditions

The tour’s hiking routes traverse uneven and potentially rocky terrain, requiring participants to maintain a steady footing and balance throughout the journey.

Conditions can also vary, with the potential for cool, wet, or muddy environments depending on the weather.

Proper attire, including long pants, closed-toe shoes, and weather-appropriate layers, is essential for navigating these natural landscapes comfortably and safely.

Participants should also be prepared to encounter elevation changes and navigate through diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to open meadows, while keeping an eye out for the tour’s primary focus: the unique native birds of the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

A moderate level of physical fitness and a spirit of adventure are recommended for this immersive outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Experience Level Is Required for This Tour?

This tour requires an intermediate level of hiking experience. Participants must be able to navigate uneven and potentially muddy terrain for extended periods. A reasonable level of physical fitness and mobility is necessary to fully enjoy this nature-focused excursion.

Is Transportation to the Meeting Points Provided?

The tour operator provides pickup and drop-off service from designated meeting locations, ensuring convenient transportation for participants to the tour’s starting point. This service is included in the tour price and itinerary.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks or Meals During the Tour?

For this tour, additional snacks or meals beyond what is provided in the inclusions are not available for purchase during the tour. The tour package includes breakfast snacks and a deli-style lunch as specified in the inclusions.

Are Professional Camera Equipment and Drones Allowed?

The use of professional camera equipment and drones is generally not permitted on wildlife tours to minimize disturbance to the animals and their habitats. Participants are advised to use handheld cameras and follow all tour guidelines and restrictions.

Is There Any Opportunity to See the Endangered Palila Bird?

The Palila is an endangered bird species found in the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge on the Big Island of Hawaii. While this tour focuses on observing other native birds, the chance to spot the elusive Palila is not guaranteed.

Recap

This Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour on the Big Island offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the renowned Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

Participants will experience the breathtaking beauty of the island’s unique ecosystem while observing endemic and endangered bird species.

The comprehensive 12-hour journey includes transportation, guided wildlife viewing, and a delicious lunch, catering to adventurous nature lovers seeking an unforgettable immersive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: