Rainforest & Dry Forest Birding Adventure
A supreme study in contrast, the Rainforest and Dryforest Adventure takes you to two very different environments. At Puu Laau, you will roam the sub-alpine dryland forest on the west side of Mauna Kea, home of the endangered palila and the bryani sub-species of elepaio. Our other locale is the Puu Oo Trail, in a cloudforest habitat on the northeastern slope of Mauna Loa. There you will look for the endangered akiapolaau, omao (Hawaiian thrush), iiwi, apapane, and other endemics.
On the drive to our two primary locales, you will head north along the coastline before starting the climb to the old Mamalahoa Highway, keeping an eye out for open-country birds. From there the tour will connect to the Saddle Road and begin car-birding, primarily for game birds as well as for the Pueo, or short-eared owl. Depending on the weather, the tour will stop for a bit of breakfast along the Saddle Road, often at Mauna Kea State Park at Pohakuloa.
Schedule: Monday through Friday on demand
Duration: 11 hours
Hiking distance: Approximately 4 miles. Elevation gain is 500′.
Check In: Departure is from the Hawaii Forest and Trail Store (73-5593 A Olowalu St., Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 ) OR the Waikoloa Kings’ Shops (69-250 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa, HI 96738 ) OR the Junction of Highways 190 and 200 ).
Tour includes: Continental breakfast including fresh local fruit, baked goods, 100% Kona coffee, tea and hot chocolate,deli-style lunch, with assorted soft drinks, juices and bottled water.
Gear Provided: Walking sticks, binoculars, day packs, warm wear and rain ponchos.
Restrictions: Minimum age is 8. Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. We sometimes encounter cool, wet or muddy conditions. Other tour restrictions may apply.
What to Bring & Wear: Sturdy closed-toed shoes or boots, long pants, and a light rain jacket.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before the start of the event.
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