Kailua-Kona Trip 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 9 guests. Join your interpretative naturalist expert birding guide to search for rare native plants and animals as well as the 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.
Additional Info
Duration: 12 hours
Starts: Kailua-Kona, United States
Trip Category: Outdoor Activities >> Hiking & Camping
Explore Kailua-Kona Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, United States
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 9 guests. Join your interpretative naturalist expert birding guide to search for rare native plants and animals as well as the 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.
Itinerary
Join us on an unforgettable day of exploring restricted lands at the Hakalau National Forest Reserve, home to some of the rarest plants and animals on earth. Your adventure begins in a comfortable 4 wheel-drive Short Wheel Base Mercedes Sprinters. These vehicles are perfect for our birdwatching tours as they are designed for smaller, more intimate groups (9 guests max) and deliver a rugged build that allows access to those off-the-beaten-path locations. Journey across Hawaii Island through it’s diverse climates and ecosystems before turning off road to reach your destination. Follow your interpretative naturalist expert birding guide into Hakalau’s forests and fields of the Pua Akala tract as you discover rare native plants and animals, including carnivorous caterpillars and happy-faced spiders. Your guide will help you search the treetops with your binoculars for Hawaiian endemic bird species such as the Akepa, Akiapolaau, Amakihi, Apapane, Hawaii Creeper, Iiwi, Elepaio, Omao, Io and Pueo. Your day includes a deli-style lunch, snacks, beverages, and filtered water. A once in a lifetime adventure to explore protected and private Hawaiian native forested lands.
