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Full-Day Hakalau Forest Reserve Bird Watching Adventure

Full-Day Hakalau Forest Reserve Bird Watching Adventure

Overview

Hakalau means “many perches.” Named by Hawaiians long ago, it is still recognized as critical bird habitat today. Once part of a large cattle ranch, it was the first National Wildlife Refuge in the country established for forest birds and it’s home to some of the rarest plants and animals on earth. The Pua Akala tract we access is not open to the public and is an excellent example of successful conservation practices. Enjoy first-class comfort adventuring in our 4-wheel drive Short Wheel Base Mercedes Sprinter along with a more intimate experience with a small group size of 10 guests. Join your interpretative naturalist expert birding guide to search for rare native plants, animals, and endemic Hawaiian birds such as the Akepa, Akiapolaau, Amakihi, Apapane, Hawaii Creeper, Iiwi, Elepaio, Omao, Io and Pueo. Riding in style with our best-in-class field guides to a restricted-access nature preserve, you’ll experience a truly unique Hawaii Island adventure.

City: Big Island of Hawaii

Fri 13 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $287.96

Make a reservation

Fri 13 Jun

Starting at $287.96

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Binoculars

Snacks

Lunch

Interpretative Birding Guide

Central Meeting Locations for Pick-up & Drop off

Air-conditioned vehicle

Filtered water, juices and flavored sparkling waters

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Guests on this tour should not be physically challenged or unable to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. Must be able to do short hikes of 1.5 to 4 miles.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (41)

rndm

Dec 2024

First of all I cannot speak to value. It costs a lot of money but it is easy to figure out why. If you are an avid birder then you are unlikely to have a similar experience anywhere else. It was a privilege to be allowed into Hakalau forest. The only way for the public to go there is with Hawaii Forest & Trail. We have been to most of the islands many times and hiked through many forests birding. Unlike the thick forests of Koke'e on Kauai and Hosmer's Grove in Maui, Hakalua is perfect for birding given how open the forest is, You can actually see the birds. Many of our party with big cameras got spectacular photos. We ended up doing three tours in all with Hawaii Forest and Trail. With most companies they guides are competent. Typically younger folks who have been on the islands for a few years and have worked hard to learn enough about their tour to get by. ALL of the guides we had with Hawaii Forest and Trail had been on the islands for decades and had an encyclopedic knowledge which they were happy to share. Even on a tour of dedicated birders GARY was the most passionate one there. He is a gem! PS we did "check off" all the rare birds on the list although I'iwi are still my favourite.

Response from Host

Dec 2024

Mahalo for your detailed and glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such an exceptional birding experience in Hakalau Forest. It truly is a privilege to access such a unique and pristine location, and we’re so glad it lived up to your expectations. Gary’s passion for the area and his encyclopedic knowledge really make the tours stand out, and we're delighted that you had the chance to "check off" rare birds on your list—though we’re glad to hear the I'iwi is still your favorite! Thank you for choosing us for your birding adventures, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more incredible experiences. 🦜🌿

newenglander1952

Oct 2024

This is a great hike with great views. Jon was our guide and he did a fabulous job. It is relatively strenuous so be prepared. Varied terrain. Bring water. This company has never failed us. Only four of us on this hike including an Ironman participant (yes, he finished the race. Congratulations Bobby!) Jon was very informative.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience! We're delighted you enjoyed the hike and appreciated Jon's guidance and expertise along the way. It’s great to hear you were in such good company—congrats to Bobby on his Ironman finish! We’re glad to have consistently met your expectations, and we look forward to more adventures together. Mahalo for choosing us!

Stefanie_T

Oct 2024

Amazing tour! Our guide Jon was fun, helpful, and gave just the right amount of information. Great lunch and snacks provided.

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had an amazing tour with Jon as your guide. It’s great to know he struck the perfect balance of fun and informative while ensuring everyone had a fantastic experience. We're glad you enjoyed the lunch and snacks as well! Your feedback means a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you back for more adventures on the Big Island soon!