Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour

Unique Birding Adventure in Hawaiian Wilderness

The Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour offers a full-day exploration of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge for $288 per person, with a 12-hour duration. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and avid birdwatchers who want to see endemic and endangered Hawaiian birds in their natural habitat. Led by a professional bird tracking guide, the trip combines off-road driving, hiking, and insightful wildlife education.

Starting from select locations in Kona and Waikoloa, this tour provides a small group experience limited to 9 participants, ensuring personalized attention. The tour’s highlights include searching for species like the Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, and I’iwi, along with discovering native plants and rare insects. The full-day itinerary features transport in a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter and a packed lunch, making it a comprehensive and comfortable birding day.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $288 per person for 12 hours, this is a detailed, full-day experience focused solely on birdwatching and wildlife.
• Exclusive Location: The tour visits the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area for native Hawaiian birds.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a professional bird tracking guide, known for their knowledge and storytelling.
• Comprehensive Inclusions: Includes transportation, breakfast snacks, deli lunch, binoculars, hiking sticks, rain gear, and reusable water bottles.
• Physical Activity: Expect to hike up to 4 miles on uneven terrain, with off-road driving in a luxury 4WD Mercedes Sprinter.

Exploring the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge

The tour takes place entirely within the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, a site notable for being the country’s first refuge dedicated to forest birds. Visitors get an up-close look at native and endangered species in their natural environment, making this a rare opportunity to see Hawaii’s endemic avian diversity.

The guide leads guests through off-the-beaten-track locations, ensuring access to hard-to-reach areas that harbor the most rare and vibrant birds. The refuge’s lush landscape is also home to native plants and carnivorous caterpillars, adding to the rare flora and fauna encountered during the day.

Bird Species You Can Expect to Spot

The tour emphasizes searching for endangered and endemic birds, with sightings of bright red I’iwi and Apapane, wide-eyed Pueo (Hawaiian owl), and the yellow Amakihi. Other species include the Hawaiian Creeper, Elepaio, and the Hawaiian hawk, Io. The guide’s expertise helps guests identify and learn about each bird’s role in Hawaii’s ecosystem.

The vibrant colors and distinct calls of these birds make for an engaging birdwatching experience. The presence of endangered species underscores the importance of conservation efforts supported by the refuge.

Comfortable Transportation in a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter

Transportation is in a luxury 4WD Mercedes Sprinter, enabling access to remote parts of the refuge that are otherwise difficult to reach. The short-wheelbase vehicle ensures smooth off-road driving, though some reviews note that stability could be improved.

Guests are seated comfortably, with daypacks and hiking sticks provided for ease during hikes. The vehicle allows the group to cover the entire refuge efficiently, maximizing bird sighting opportunities.

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Practical Details: What’s Included and What Not

Participants receive pickup and drop-off from select locations in Kona and Waikoloa, with no hotel transfer included. The tour package covers professional bird tracking guides, transportation, snacks, lunch, binoculars, rain gear, hiking sticks, and reusable water bottles—all essentials for a smooth experience.

Water stations are available for refilling, but guests should bring their own water bottles. The tour also supplies daypacks—perfect for carrying personal items and any birding gear.

Physical and Weather Considerations

The hiking involves walking up to 4 miles on rocky and uneven terrain, so appropriate footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are necessary. It’s advisable to dress in layers due to potential cool, wet, or muddy conditions.

Guests should bring a hat, jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. The tour explicitly disallows sandals, flip flops, shorts, smoking, alcohol, and pets for safety and preservation reasons. It’s suitable for those comfortable with moderate hiking and variable weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This activity is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility or health issues such as back problems or motion sickness. Because of the hilly and rocky terrain, guests should be physically prepared for some moderate hiking.

The tour’s small group size, expert local guides, and focus on native wildlife make it ideal for serious birders and nature enthusiasts seeking an in-depth experience. Those with a passion for conservation and island ecology will find this tour particularly rewarding.

The Experience of the Guides

The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills. They are experienced in bird tracking and Hawaii’s native ecology, providing valuable insights into the species’ behaviors and conservation efforts. Their ability to help guests identify birds and share stories about Hawaiian nature enhances the overall experience.

Ease of Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations can be made with flexibility, as cancelations up to 24 hours in advance receive a full refund. The “reserve now & pay later” option offers additional flexibility for planning.

Guests are advised to confirm their pickup times with the provider, as departure times may vary based on permit restrictions. It’s recommended to arrive at least 10 minutes early for pickup.

Final Thoughts on the Big Island Bird Watching & Hiking Tour

This full-day adventure in Hakalau Forest provides an immersive opportunity to see rare and endemic Hawaiian birds in their native habitat. The combination of expert guiding, luxury transport, and well-curated equipment makes for a convenient and enriching experience.

While the hiking and off-road driving may be challenging for some, the rare wildlife sightings and educational value justify the effort. This tour is especially suitable for dedicated birders and wildlife enthusiasts eager to explore Hawaii’s unique avian diversity in a protected environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of this tour?
The tour costs $288 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for 12 hours from pick-up to drop-off.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from select locations in Kona and Waikoloa; exact pickup times should be confirmed.

What species can I expect to see?
Sightings typically include I’iwi, Apapane, Pueo, Amakihi, Elepaio, and the Hawaiian hawk, Io.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 8 years due to hiking difficulty.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
All necessary gear, including binoculars, rain gear, and water bottles, are provided.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, with closed-toe shoes, long pants, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast snacks and a deli-style lunch.

Are there any physical requirements?
Guests should be comfortable hiking up to 4 miles on rocky terrain and able to handle some off-road driving.

This tour offers the chance to see Hawaii’s native birds in a protected, scenic setting, guided by knowledgeable professionals dedicated to sharing the island’s natural treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby