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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

Mon 07 Jul

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $287.96

Make a reservation

Mon 07 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)

HPaluck

Sep 2023

On this tour you get to hike through a forest that is closed to the public to see some of the rarest birds in the world. We saw Akiapolaau, Apapane, Akepas and so many I’iwi that they became a common sighting. Gary was a fantastic guide who taught us much about the conservation efforts to protect Hawaii’s dwindling native species of plants and birds. Whether you are an expert birder or a novice such as myself you will not regret spending a day participating in this unique experience.

Deidre_H

May 2023

Walking in what remains of the ancient rain forests, seeing jewel-like birds darting between trees, observing the heroic efforts being made to preserve what we still have left - inspiring and fascinating. An extra benefit: our guide John was an excellent source of information and really bad jokes.

HankTaliaferro

Mar 2023

Gary was a spectacular leader. He provided an enormous amount of information regarding the various bird species that we pursued, botany, geology, and history about the island. I came on this trip as a serious birder, in search of Akiapolaau, Hawaiian creeper, and Akepa, and left with success in terms of finding the birds, but also, an understanding of what Hakalau is and the tremendous amount of work it takes to restore native Forest. Gary worked extremely hard, and was an outstanding guide. He also provided some comic relief and kept all members of the group entertained. I would recommend this tour for any one interested in learning about the endangered birds of Hawaii, botany, geology, and wanting to connect with nature.