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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 04 Jul

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $287.96

Make a reservation

Fri 04 Jul

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)

Q1036NCrobing

Mar 2024

Access to the forest is limited and Hawaii Forest and Trail provided the guided birding. At every point of contact they were helpful, kind, understanding, and accommodating. I called with concerns about my age and limited ability and was reassured and suggestions. Staff are unfailingly cheerful and glad to talk to you. Our guide, Jon, was caring and adjusted to make sure we all got to see the birds. I can recommend this tour without reservation.

Response from Host

Mar 2024

Mahalo for taking the time to share your experience on our Hakalau Forest Adventure. We're thrilled that you found our staff helpful, kind, and accommodating throughout your interactions with us. Ensuring that all our guests feel comfortable and accommodated is a top priority, so we're glad to hear that you felt reassured and well taken care of. Your recommendation means the world to us, and we truly appreciate you joining us. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back for another adventure in the future!

Bruce S

Feb 2024

I would have rated a 5 but the guide said at the outset he would do an eBird checklist and share but failed to do so. We saw all 11 of the rare endemics possible at the elevation of the reserve. Excellent spotting and very informative about plants, ecology and evolution.

Response from Host

Feb 2024

Aloha Bruce, thank you so much for joining us on the Hakalau Wildlife Refuge Birdwatching Adventure. Our company has exclusive access to this preserve on Maunakea and we are very pleased to share it with enthusiasts such as yourself. Mahalo!

198carrief

Feb 2024

This was a wonderful hike into a reserve with rare and endangered birds. Our guide Gary was very knowledgeable and found most of the birds on the list. He was funny, too! Highly recommended.

Response from Host

Feb 2024

Aloha, Garry missed his calling as a comedian! Luckily, he is an avid Birder and Naturalist and has been with us for over two decades. His ability to decipher all those bird calls is quite the talent! Thank you so much for joining us on the Hakalau Bird Watching Adventure - its not one to miss!