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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

Sun 23 Feb

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $246.07

Make a reservation

Sun 23 Feb

Starting at $246.07

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.
Hand sanitiser available to travellers and staff
Regularly sanitised high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitised between use
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitised
We have developed an approach that introduces a new standard of cleanliness and disinfection to ensure our guests enjoy an even cleaner and safer experience. Implementing strict protocols and using the latest disinfection technology, updated continuously to current State and Federal Guidelines.

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (16)

Birder2009

Jul 2021

I would give it more stars if it was a possibility. Everything was absolutely well done making for a very rewarding and enjoyable day. I joined the group a few minutes late, and although I was very embarrassed, the guide, Taj, made me feel very welcome. Taj is a superb guide. His knowledge of the fauna, flora, environmental problems, ecology, geography was amazing and I left the trip feeling I had learned a lot about the Big Island. Taj found and helped the whole group see all the specialty birds of the area. The tour was relaxed, carefully planned, and the lunch and snacks were nice. They also provided binoculars, backpacks, walking sticks and rain gear for those who needed them. On our way back, the mist and light rain moved in, and Taj marked the end of tour by playing a hauntingly beautiful tune on the Hawaiian nose flute. I highly recommend this tour for all levels of birdwatching expertise. Thank you for a wonderful day. (Temperature checks were not required but I had to fill a questionnaire and show proof of negative covid test required by Hawaii)

Keren F

Jun 2021

What an unbelievable experience! We got to see birds that are found nowhere else on the planet! Taj was incredibly knowledgable about not only the birds, but the ecology and history of the island as well. I learned so much. He was also super funny which was very much appreciated. It's rare that you get jokes about Maslow's hierarchy of needs and Alfred Wallace all in one go - and nerd that I am, I loved it! :) The tour was also very accommodating regarding dietary needs for the packed food which we are very thankful for. A wonderful experience all around!

Hal72

Mar 2021

A long day, a rather rough and bumpy road, and great birding. Access to Hakalau id by permit only, with guides. This was our 4th Hakalau trip (along with 3 other birding trips) and each is different. This trip a quite a bit of rain, but we not only saw all the target birds but got good views and pictures. Guide (Garry) is excellent with quite a bit of knowledge of the island's history and geology along with plants and wildlife. Hakalau is a great example of preservation of good habitat and then restoration to make it even better.