Hawaii: Private All-Inclusive High Country Adventure

Set out on a captivating journey to the highlands of Hawaii’s Big Island. This private, all-inclusive adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the Mauna Loa Volcano and Mauna Kea Forest Reserve. Soar through lush forests, spot rare birds, and savor a gourmet picnic lunch amidst stunning vistas. With a seasoned naturalist guide by your side, you’ll uncover the island’s remarkable wildlife and gain a deeper appreciation for its natural wonders. But the real magic lies in the hidden gems you’ll discover along the way.

Key Points

• This private all-inclusive adventure offers a 4×4 journey through the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve on the northern flank of the Mauna Loa volcano, the largest active volcano on Earth.
• Participants can search for rare and endangered Hawaiian bird species, including the Hawaiian Honeycreeper and Palila, using provided Nikon ProStaff binoculars during a guided birdwatching experience.
• The tour includes a picnic lunch with views of the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, as well as a visit to the Mauna Loa Observatory, which has been monitoring atmospheric changes since the 1950s.
• The tour is an 8.5-hour experience that is suitable for all ages and abilities, with flexibility to accommodate weather conditions, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
• The tour provides 20-25 edited photos to capture the highlights of the high country adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Hawaii: Private All-Inclusive High Country Adventure," is priced from $1,745.00 per group of up to 4 participants and lasts 8.5 hours.

It’s conducted in English, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The adventure explores the northern flank of Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano, and traverses the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve.

Participants will search for rare birds using provided Nikon binoculars and enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the volcanic peaks.

Explore the Mauna Loa Volcano

Situated on the northern flank of Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on Earth, the tour takes guests on a thrilling 4×4 adventure through the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve.

Travelers will marvel at the rare and endemic plants and birds as they search for the endangered Hawaiian Honeycreeper, the Palila, and other species like the ‘Amakihi, ‘Apapane, Hawaiian hawk, and Hawaiian short-eared owl.

A guided walk through the high elevation dry forest ecosystems offers a glimpse into these unique ecosystems.

The tour also includes a visit to the Mauna Loa Observatory, which has recorded atmospheric changes since the 1950s.

4×4 Adventure in Mauna Kea Forest Reserve

As guests embark on the thrilling 4×4 adventure through the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, they’ll be immersed in a world of rare and endemic plant and bird life.

The naturalist guide leads the way, pointing out:

1. Endangered Hawaiian Honeycreeper, the Palila (Loxioides bailleui)

2. Hawai’i ‘Amakihi and ‘Apapane

3. Hawaiian hawk and Hawaiian short-eared owl

4. Unique high elevation dry forest ecosystems

Traversing rugged terrain, guests marvel at the diverse landscape.

They’ll use provided Nikon ProStaff binoculars to search for these elusive species.

This unforgettable experience immerses adventurers in the natural wonders of Mauna Kea.

Birdwatching With Nikon Binoculars

Nikon ProStaff binoculars in hand, guests eagerly scan the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve for rare and endemic Hawaiian bird species.

A naturalist guide points out the endangered Hawaiian Honeycreeper, the Palila (Loxioides bailleui), and other unique birds like the Hawai’i ‘Amakihi, ‘Apapane, Hawaiian hawk, and Hawaiian short-eared owl.

With the provided optics, guests enjoy spectacular close-up views of these feathered jewels amidst the high elevation dry forest ecosystem.

Guests enjoy spectacular close-up views of feathered jewels within the high elevation dry forest ecosystem, thanks to the provided optics.

Birdwatching becomes an immersive experience, as the guide shares insights into the species’ biology and conservation efforts to protect Hawaii’s fragile avian populations.

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Picnic Lunch With Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa Views

After spotting rare birds through the provided Nikon binoculars, guests enjoy a picnic lunch with sweeping views of the iconic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.

The gourmet spread includes:

1. Fresh local fruits and vegetables

2. Hearty sandwiches made with artisanal breads and meats

3. Refreshing juices, sodas, and hot beverages

4. Satisfying snacks and desserts

Guests savor the delicious meal while taking in the stunning natural landscape, surrounded by the majestic peaks of these legendary Hawaiian volcanoes.

It’s a truly unforgettable high country experience.

Mauna Loa Observatory Visit

Following the tour’s exploration of the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, guests are treated to a visit to the Mauna Loa Observatory.

This scientific research station has been recording atmospheric changes since the 1950s. Visitors can learn about the observatory’s important role in monitoring carbon dioxide levels and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global climate change.

The tour provides an up-close look at the facility’s instruments and equipment, offering a unique glimpse into the critical work being done to understand and address the impacts of climate change in this remote and pristine environment.

Discovering Rare Plants and Birds

Leaving the Mauna Loa Observatory behind, guests embark on a guided walk through the high-elevation dry forest ecosystems of the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve.

With their provided Nikon ProStaff binoculars, they search for rare and endemic birds, including the endangered Hawaiian Honeycreeper, the Palila, as well as the Hawaii ‘Amakihi, ‘Apapane, Hawaiian hawk, and Hawaiian short-eared owl.

The naturalist guide points out:

1. Rare plants adapted to the harsh, dry conditions.

2. The unique architecture of the koa and mamane trees.

3. The importance of this ecosystem for preserving Hawaii’s biodiversity.

4. Conservation efforts to protect these fragile habitats.

Tour Inclusions and Important Information

This private all-inclusive adventure in Hawaii includes a comprehensive set of amenities and services to enhance the experience. From hotel pickup and drop-off to professional photography and specialized equipment, every detail is taken care of. The tour also provides a picnic-style lunch, snacks, and beverages to keep guests energized. While guests should wear comfortable clothing and shoes, the tour is suitable for all ages and abilities, with some flexibility for weather conditions.

| Inclusions |

|————|

| Hotel pickup and drop-off |

| Admission to all venues and parks |

| Naturalist guide |

| 20-25 edited photos |

| Picnic lunch and snacks |

| Beverages |

| Specialized equipment |

The Sum Up

This exclusive all-inclusive adventure offers a thrilling exploration of Hawaii’s high country, immersing you in the volcanic landscapes of Mauna Loa and the diverse Mauna Kea Forest Reserve. Enjoy birdwatching, a gourmet picnic, and insightful commentary from a naturalist guide, capturing unforgettable memories through provided photography. An unforgettable journey that showcases the beauty and wonder of Hawaii’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: