Maui isn’t just about sunbathing on its famous beaches; it offers some of the most captivating hiking and trekking experiences in Hawaii. With lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and private conservation areas, this island caters to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush jumping into waterfalls or a peaceful trek through endangered forests, Maui’s trails deliver breathtaking views and memorable encounters. The secret is knowing which tour best suits your style—our carefully curated list highlights the top 11 hiking tours with detailed insights, so you can pick your perfect path.
What makes Maui stand out for hikers? Unlike other tropical islands, Maui combines off-the-beaten-path forests, volcanic terrain, and coastal trails in a way that feels both immersive and accessible. Many tours include hotel pickups, local guides with extensive knowledge, and special access to private lands, making your experience both authentic and convenient. And with reviews consistently hitting 4.5 stars and above, it’s clear that Maui’s hiking scene is well worth exploring.
Quick Overview
This list covers a broad spectrum of Maui hiking tours—from the 7-hour Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure to the 3-hour Hike Honolua Ridgeline, and even a full-day trip including waterfalls, coastlines, and the Pipiwai trail. Expect guided walks through East Maui rainforests, volcano craters, and private conservation lands, along with options for snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural explorations. Read on to find the tour that matches your fitness level, interests, and time constraints.
1. Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure with Hotel Pickup
This 7-hour journey into East Maui’s lush interior is perfect for those looking to combine adventure, scenery, and a taste of Hawaiian jungle. Your guide will lead you through well off-the-beaten-track sections of the rainforest, where three or more stream-fed waterfalls await. Jumping into pools beneath waterfalls is optional, but most people find it irresistible. The tour emphasizes tropical scenery, swimming, and a healthy lunch featuring local ingredients. With a consistent 5-star rating from 454 reviews, visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the mix of challenging hikes and relaxing swims. The included hotel pickup is a major plus for ease of access, making this the top choice for immersive rainforest exploration.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a full day of waterfall action in a remote setting, ideal for active travelers who want a mix of hiking, swimming, and island scenery.
2. Maui: Rainforest Waterfalls Guided Hike with Picnic Lunch
For around $177, this 5-hour guided hike showcases Maui’s rainforest waterfalls with the added chance to leap into freshwater pools and enjoy a picnic by the falls. Rated 4.9/5 from 260 reviews, it’s praised for its informative guides and scenic scenery. Ali, the guide, gets special mention for her energy and knowledge, making the rainforest come alive. This tour strikes a balance between easy walking and engaging sights, suitable for families or casual hikers. The optional hotel transfers add to the convenience. Many travelers love the opportunity to pick fresh fruits in season and learn about plant life, making this tour a mix of nature appreciation and cultural insight.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, shorter rainforest trek with the highlight of a picnic lunch, perfect for those seeking a manageable yet scenic adventure.
3. Hike Honolua Ridgeline
This 3-hour, 15-minute private guided trek takes you into Maui’s conservation lands near the Pu’u Kukui Watershed Preserve. With a focus on endangered and indigenous plants and animals, this hike is a must for eco-conscious travelers. The trail follows the Honolua Ridgeline, offering spectacular views of the ocean, valleys, and waterfalls. Rated 5/5 from 73 reviews, guides like Jason bring extensive knowledge about Hawaii’s ecology. Because of its private nature, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, learning about conservation efforts firsthand. The hike is relatively short but offers remarkable scenery and educational value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-minded visitors wanting a unique chance to explore protected land with expert guidance in a manageable timeframe.
4. Haleakala Crater Hiking Experience
This 7-hour tour ventures into the silent, moon-like landscape of Haleakala’s dormant volcano. The guided 4-mile hike explores colorful cinder cones, rare plants, and wildlife like nene geese. The experience includes lunch and snacks, and the guide shares stories of the crater’s mythological and geological significance. Rated 5/5 from 69 reviews, it’s praised for its stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides. Walking into this vast volcanic caldera feels like stepping onto another planet, especially at sunrise or sunset. The tour provides a great mix of hiking, wildlife spotting, and cultural stories, making it a top choice for those wanting a volcanic adventure.
Bottom Line: A must-do for anyone interested in Hawaii’s volcanic history, with a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and storytelling.
5. South Maui: Waterfall Tour w/ Kayak, Snorkel, and Hike
This 7.5-hour tour offers a full day of outdoor activities—kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking—centered around South Maui’s waterfalls. Rated 5/5 from 17 reviews, it’s especially strong for those who want a multi-sport outdoor day. You’ll paddle along the coast, snorkel in clear waters with sea turtles, and hike through the rainforest to waterfalls. The mix of marine life, waterfall swimming, and cultural exploration makes for a diverse experience. Guides like Jacob are praised for their local knowledge and safety. This tour is perfect if you want to combine land and sea adventures without sacrificing scenery or activity variety.
Bottom Line: A great option for active travelers wanting a comprehensive day with kayaking, snorkeling, and rainforest hikes in one package.
6. Amazing Maui Ridge Hike
This 2-hour private hike in the West Maui Mountains covers about 4 miles along Waihee Ridge, with spectacular views of the coast, waterfalls, and valleys. Rated 5/5 from 15 reviews, guides like Andy customize the pace and provide deep insights into the environment. The trail is considered moderate, but the vistas make it worthwhile for anyone wanting a short but visually stunning trek. The private nature ensures a quieter, more personalized experience, and the trail’s accessibility makes it suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with limited time but a desire for breathtaking vistas and ecological education.
7. Maui: Guided Hike of Haleakala Crater with Lunch
This 7-hour guided hike combines two trails within Haleakala’s volcanic landscape, with a lunch included. The guide shares stories of Maui’s geology and culture as you explore alien terrain and volcanic formations. Rated 4.9/5 from 9 reviews, it’s praised for its friendly guides and beautiful scenery above the clouds. The hike offers varied scenery, from lava fields to native plants, providing a comprehensive view of the crater’s ecology. The inclusion of a picnic lunch makes it a comfortable choice for those wanting a full day of exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a full, guided volcanic hike that combines natural beauty and cultural storytelling.
8. Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena
This 6-hour combo tour immerses you in South Maui’s marine and rainforest environments. You’ll kayak along the Makena coastline, snorkel in clear waters to see sea turtles, and hike through Hawaiian ruins. Rated 4.5/5 from 18 reviews, it appeals to those who want land and sea experiences on the same trip. Guides like Cody and Tim are noted for their attention to safety and storytelling. The tour’s highlight is swimming in waterfalls and encountering marine life, making it a well-rounded outdoor adventure.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers wanting to explore Maui’s coastline, underwater world, and cultural sites in one day.
9. Maui: Full Day Hiking Tour with Lunch
This 11-hour guided tour takes in waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and the Pipiwai trail along the Hana Highway. Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, it’s suited for those who want a comprehensive day exploring Maui’s most iconic scenery. Guides share stories of Maui’s landscapes, and the tour includes snacks and a picnic lunch. The journey down the Hana Highway feels like a scenic movie scene, with waterfalls and lush greenery everywhere. It’s perfect if you want a long, well-rounded outdoor day with plenty of photographic moments.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a full, immersive day covering Maui’s top sights.
10. Small Group Waterfall and Rainforest Hiking Adventure on Maui
Rated 5/5 from over 1,300 reviews, this half-day tour focuses on East Maui’s lush rainforest. It includes a scenic Hana Highway drive and a trek to multiple waterfalls where you can swim and jump into pools. Guides like P.T. are praised for their knowledge of local flora and fauna, and the smaller group size ensures personalized attention. The tour also includes a healthy, delicious lunch. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a well-organized, educational rainforest hike with plenty of water activities.
Bottom Line: An outstanding value in a popular area, perfect for travelers who want lots of waterfalls and rainforest in a shorter format.
11. Waterfalls, Hike & Rivers Tour from Kahului
This 5-hour tour offers a comprehensive hike around Waikamoi Waterfalls, Kepaniwai Park, and Iao Valley. While there are no specific reviews, the itinerary includes hiking near waterfalls, exploring botanical gardens, and river walks. It promises a mix of scenic views, botanical learning, and some light adventure. It’s a good option for those wanting a mid-length, diverse outdoor experience close to Kahului.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers looking for a shorter, varied outdoor trip that combines waterfalls and cultural sites.
How to Choose the Right Maui Hiking Tour
When selecting your ideal Maui trek, consider your fitness level, time available, and specific interests. If you want an immersive rainforest experience with swimming, the Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure is a top pick. For a volcano landscape, the Haleakala Crater hikes and Haleakala Crater with Lunch offer two distinct options. Those interested in combining marine activities with hiking will enjoy the South Maui Waterfall Tour.
Budget-wise, tours range from about $145 to over $292 for full-day adventures, so think about how much time and activity variety you want. Book early, especially for popular dates or private options, to ensure you secure your spot.
Final thoughts
Maui’s diverse terrain and natural beauty shine through in these eleven tours, providing options for every interest and fitness level. The Waterfall & Rainforest Adventure and Full Day Hana Tour stand out for their comprehensive experiences, while the Private Honolua Ridgeline hike offers exclusivity and ecological insight. For those seeking a multi-activity day, the South Maui kayak and snorkel tour hits the mark. No matter your choice, early booking guarantees a spot on these sought-after trails—so plan ahead and get ready to explore Maui’s stunning outdoors.