Oahu 85°F 29°C

Hawaii Hiking & Nature Eco Tours -
Cloud Forest Botanical Sanctuary Walk

Schedule: Daily, year-round
Duration: 3 hours hiking
Difficulty/Length: Easy, 1½ - 2½ mile hike
Location: Hualalai
Time: Check in 8:00am
Children: Minimum age 8. Children 8-12 pay a reduced price. Transportation: You'll be picked up at resorts and hotels along the Kona Coast and in Kailua-Kona. Otherwise we'll meet at Starbucks in Kailua-Kona

A surprisingly short distance from busy Kailua-Kona is a lush forest on the slopes of the sleeping volcano called Hualalai. There we find a private and very special sanctuary that nurtures plants, birds, and the human spirit with its peaceful isolation. As we move quietly through native forest, and among palms, tree ferns, blossoms and bamboo from around the world, our senses are soothed by the cool air, the songs of birds and the thousand shades of green the forest displays.

Engaging information is presented about the wide-range of botanical specimens, and the geographic context. Many comment on the calm and peaceful feeling this environment engenders.

Award-Winning Eco Tour "Operator of the Year"
Hawaiian Walkways is a charter member of the Hawaii Eco-Tourism Association, and received the "Tour Operators of the Year" Award in 2002.

"We will take you to places that are so beautiful and grand they take your breath away, " say Dr. Hugh and Kaulana Montgomery (Owner-Operators), "to give an understanding of the Island and its people that will help you feel enriched; to share an appreciation of the interplay of sea (kai), land ('aina) and life (ola) unique to Hawaii."

NOTE: The footing on hardened lava is rocky and uneven. Closed shoes are a must. Forest paths are smoother, mostly on natural surfaces. Hikers need to be prepared for sun (with a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen) and for cool, moist air and wind (with a light jacket/sweatshirt).

Included: Light backpacks, Rain Wear, Walking Sticks, Food and Beverages (Deli-Style lunch, Cookies, Macadamia Nuts, Juice/Soda, and Bottled Water). Naturalist Guide Services at the ratio of one guide per ten hikers.

This tour also requires a minimum of 4 people to book.