Hakalau Exclusive Birdwatching Tour
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime Hakalau birdwatching adventure within the restricted-access Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge. Traveling in comfort via 4WD Mercedes Sprinter, you’ll reach remote, off-the-beaten-path habitats that few ever see. Guided by Hawaii’s premier field experts, this intimate journey offers your best chance to spot rare, endangered honeycreepers and endemic wildlife in a truly pristine rainforest setting.
Highlights Include:
-
Exclusive Refuge Access: Gain rare entry into the restricted-access Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.
-
Unique Biodiversity: Discover rare endemic plants and fascinating local wildlife, from carnivorous caterpillars to happy-faced spiders.
-
Search for Rare Species: Spot Hawaii’s most iconic endangered birds, including the Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, Akepa, Akiapolaau, and the brilliant scarlet I’iwi.
-
Expert Bird Trackers: Learn from professional interpretive guides who specialize in locating and identifying rare Hawaiian bird calls.
-
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. We sometimes encounter cool, wet or muddy conditions.
Please note the Refuge access road can be rough & bumpy, and requires 4WD. Due to the possible rough road conditions this tour may not be suitable for those guests who have neck or back issues or those who are prone to motion sickness. Other tour restrictions may apply.
-
- How much hiking do we do? Expect to cover approximately 2 to 4 miles in 4 hours
- Is there elevation gain? Over the course of the hike the elevation change is approximately 650’
- What is the difference in the birds seen on Hakalau? The Akepa and Hawaii Creeper are typically found on our tour through Hakalau. The Akiapolaau can make appearances as well.
- Is it possible to use a spotting scope? Due to the behavior of Hawaii’s endemic birds, the use of a spotting scope can be challenging. If you feel up to the test, we do encourage you to bring your own birdwatching gear. We do provide binoculars on the tour for guest use
- Is it possible to get photos of the birds? Typically, there are many opportunities for a determined photographer to photograph birds along the way
- How is the drive to Refuge? The first part of the drive is on paved roadways. However, the second half of the drive on the Wildlife access road takes place on a dirt road that is rough, muddy, and can be very bumpy.
-
Breakfast snacks, trail snacks, deli style lunch, assorted beverages, refillable filtered water.
-
Sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots, long pants, and a light rain jacket. Guests should bring their own water bottles.
-
Walking sticks, binoculars, day packs, warm wear and rain ponchos.
-
Cancellation Policy
Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation.• Private tours: Customers will receive a full refund with 72 hours notice of cancellation.
Cancellations within the cancellation period and “no-shows” will be charged the FULL AMOUNT of the tour.
Photo Credits:
- Michelle Mishina
- Dale Crawford
BOOK TODAY!
Pricing:
Adult (13+): $275.00 + taxes and fees
Child (8-12): $275.00 + taxes and fees
*Price subject to change. Please check booking calendar for up to date pricing.
Availability and Schedule:
Availability varies; please check booking calendar for up-to-date information.
Approximate Pick-up Time:
6:30 AM
Approximate Return Time:
5:30 – 6:30 PM
Transportation:
Transportation is available.
Pick-up times and locations will vary on your hotel.
*Please note the nearest meeting location for your tour, it may be different from your selected accommodation with a different meeting time. If your lodging option is not listed please select “Other” or “Private Residence.”
Tours depart from Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters (73-5593 A, Olowalu St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740). Please check in by 6:15 AM. Travel time is approximately 4 hours round-trip.
Check your confirmation emails for pick up details.
You Might Also Like:
Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfalls
Starting at $295.00
✅ Includes National Park Certified Guide
An in-depth volcano experience on the Island of Hawaii is offered by Hawaii Forest & Trail.
Mauna kea Summit & Stars
Starting at $299.00
⭐ Unique Experience
✅ Dinner Included
Our journey from sea level to the nearly 14,000-foot summit of Mauna kea reveals the wonders and world-class clarity of the Hawaiian night sky.
Kohala Zip & Dip
Starting at $325.00
✅ Great for thrill seekers
✅ Waterfall swimming included
Zipline well above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under an exclusive waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream.
*Due to park renovations this tour is not available until July 2026.