Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour

Explore the avian delights of Hawaii’s Big Island on this immersive 12-hour tour. Led by a seasoned guide, you’ll venture into the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge to spot endangered endemic species like the Amakihi and Hawaiian hawk ‘Io. The day promises a scenic van ride, guided hikes, and a delicious picnic lunch – an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s splendor. But the real highlight? Witnessing these rare birds in their natural habitat.

This experience made our article of Island Of Hawaii’s 4 Top Hiking And Trekking Tours.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 12-hour excursion at Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge to spot endangered endemic bird species like Amakihi, Apapane, and Hawaiian hawk ‘Io.
• Guided walking and hiking tour led by a professional bird tracking guide in a comfortable 4WD Mercedes Sprinter, with a focus on wildlife viewing.
• Includes a 2-hour van ride to the refuge, a picnic lunch, and various amenities like daypacks, hiking sticks, and binoculars.
• Not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, with specific clothing and gear requirements.
• Tour has received rave reviews from past participants for the guides’ knowledge, successful sightings of endemic birds, and the overall immersive nature experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Big Island: Native Bird Watching & Hiking Tour" is a comprehensive 12-hour excursion that takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

Priced from €238.75 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 9 participants and is led by a professional bird tracking guide. Guests will be transported in a comfortable 4WD Mercedes Sprinter, allowing access to off-the-beaten-track locations.

The itinerary includes 5 hours of guided walking, hiking, and wildlife viewing, along with a picnic lunch. The tour aims to spot endangered endemic bird species like Amakihi, Apapane, and the Hawaiian hawk ‘Io.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 2-hour van ride to the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, a premier birding destination on the Big Island.

Once there, guests embark on 5 hours of guided walking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The expert guide will lead the group in search of endangered endemic birds like the Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, Iiwi, Pueo, ‘Akiapōlā’au, and Hawaiian hawk ‘Io.

A picnic lunch is included, providing energy for the active exploration. The use of 4WD Mercedes Sprinters ensures comfort and access to off-the-beaten-track locations, allowing for the best possible wildlife encounters.

Included Amenities

Guests on the Big Island Bird Watching & Hiking Tour can expect a range of included amenities to enhance their experience. A professional bird tracking guide leads the way, sharing their expertise to help spot endangered endemic species.

Breakfast snacks, a deli-style lunch, and a water station for refills are provided. Daypacks, hiking sticks, rain gear, reef-safe sunscreen, and binoculars are available for use.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated locations for convenience. These thoughtful inclusions ensure guests can focus on the wildlife and natural wonders of the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

Important Information

Although the Big Island Bird Watching & Hiking Tour is an immersive nature experience, there are some important considerations for guests.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with back problems, mobility issues, or motion sickness. Closed-toe shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle are musts.

Pets, sandals, smoking, and alcohol are prohibited. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

While the guides receive praise for their knowledge and hospitality, some reviewers suggest improvements to off-road driving comfort.

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Customer Reviews

Unsurprisingly, the Big Island Bird Watching & Hiking Tour has received rave reviews from past participants.

Travelers praise the guides’ extensive knowledge and hospitable nature, which contributed to successful sightings of endemic Hawaiian birds like the Amakihi, Apapane, and Iiwi.

While the off-road driving was a highlight, some reviewers suggested improvements to enhance comfort during these portions of the tour.

Getting to the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge

The tour begins with a 2-hour drive from the pickup locations to the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge. This protected area is home to numerous endangered native bird species. Traversing the winding roads, guests enjoy the scenic views as the landscape transitions from coastal areas to lush, forested mountains. The ride is comfortable in the 4WD Mercedes Sprinter, providing access to off-the-beaten-track locations.

| Transportation | Duration |

| — | — |

| 4WD Mercedes Sprinter | 2 hours |

| Destination | Purpose |

| — | — |

| Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge | Birdwatching and hiking |

| Key Activities |

| — |

| Guided walking, hiking, and wildlife viewing |

Searching for Endangered Bird Species

Upon arriving at the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, the experienced guide leads the group on a 5-hour exploration.

The group searches for endangered birds like the Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, Iiwi, Pueo, ‘Akiapōlā’au, and Hawaiian hawk ‘Io. Using binoculars and keen eyes, they scan the lush, dense forest canopy for glimpses of these vibrant, feathered creatures.

The guide shares insights about the birds’ behaviors and conservation efforts. Though spotting the elusive species can be challenging, the thrill of a successful sighting makes the search worthwhile, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Hawaii’s unique avian inhabitants.

Enjoying the Picnic Lunch

After the thrilling bird-watching expedition, the group gathers for a much-needed picnic lunch.

The guides have thoughtfully prepared a delicious deli-style spread, including:

• Freshly made sandwiches with a variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables

• A selection of fresh fruit and crunchy vegetable sticks

• Homemade cookies and granola bars for a sweet treat

The picnic provides a welcome respite, allowing the participants to refuel and reflect on the incredible wildlife they’ve witnessed.

With the serene forest backdrop, the group savors each bite, energized for the hike back to the van.

Ask Away

How Do I Book the Tour if I’m Traveling Solo?

To book the tour as a solo traveler, you can visit the tour operator’s website and select the desired date. Proceed with the booking process, providing your contact details. Solo travelers are welcome and will be paired with other participants.

Can I Bring My Own Binoculars or Are They Provided?

You can bring your own binoculars if you prefer, but the tour provides them. The guides recommend using the provided binoculars as they’re designed for optimal wildlife viewing on the hike.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour’s standard duration is 12 hours, but customers can’t extend it. However, they can book additional or customized tours if they want to spend more time bird watching and hiking on the Big Island.

Can I Request a Customized Pickup/Drop-Off Location?

Yes, you can request a customized pickup and drop-off location, but it’s subject to the tour operator’s approval and may incur an additional fee. The standard pickup and drop-off locations are listed in the tour overview.

Do I Need to Have Prior Birdwatching Experience to Join the Tour?

No prior birdwatching experience is required. The tour’s professional guide will provide the necessary equipment and expertise to help participants of all skill levels spot and identify the endemic bird species.

Final Words

This immersive bird-watching and hiking tour on the Big Island offers a chance to spot endangered endemic species in the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge. Led by a professional guide, the excursion includes a scenic van ride, guided hikes, and a picnic lunch, ensuring an unforgettable day surrounded by Hawaii’s natural beauty. It’s an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts to experience the island’s avian wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: