What can I expect to see and do on the Mauna Kea Botanical Tour and waterfall swim?

The tour includes exploring exotic palms, native Hawaiian plants, and tropical fruit trees, followed by a refreshing swim at Kikala Falls. Guests also have the opportunity to purchase plants at the end of the 2-hour experience.

How long is the tour and what is the schedule?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at the designated meeting point above Hilo on Mauna Kea. Exact start times will be provided upon booking confirmation.

Who is this tour suitable for in terms of age and fitness?

The tour is suitable for participants aged 5 and older and is designed for all fitness levels, though basic mobility is needed to navigate the bioreserve and access the waterfall swim safely.

What should I bring and wear for the botanical tour and waterfall swim?

Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes, bring swimwear and a towel for the waterfall swim, and consider sun protection such as hats and sunscreen. Water and insect repellent are also recommended.

Where is the meeting point and what is the booking or cancellation policy?

The meeting point is located on Mauna Kea above Hilo. Bookings must be made in advance, with cancellations subject to the tour operator’s specific policy, which will be provided at the time of booking.

Waterfall surrounded by lush greenery at Mauna Kea Bioreserve

Botanical Tour and waterfall swim at The Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve

The Mauna Kea botanical tour in Hilo explores exotic palms, native Hawaiian plants, and tropical fruit trees. The 2-hour tour ends with a swim at Kikala Falls and offers certified plant purchases.

$49.00

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Mauna Kea Botanical Tour Experience

The Mauna Kea botanical tour offers an immersive exploration of the Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve in Hilo. This 2-hour tour showcases a diverse collection of exotic palms, conifers, native Hawaiian forest plants, and tropical fruit trees such as jackfruit, banana, pineapple, cacao, and pili nut trees.

Flora and Conservation Projects

Participants learn about the botany of montane tropical cloud forests, including temperate conifers like coast redwoods growing alongside tropical species from New Caledonia and Madagascar. The tour also covers native Hawaiian forest ecology and wildlife such as the native Hawk (‘io) and owl (Pueo). Visitors are introduced to conservation efforts including carbon sequestration, regenerative grazing, and soil conservation projects.

Waterfall Swim and Plant Purchases

The tour concludes with a refreshing swim at Kikala Falls. Guests have the opportunity to purchase certified plants produced at the Bioreserve, complete with certification documents for mainland transport.

Group Size and Age Range

The tour accommodates groups up to 8 people and is suitable for ages 5 and older. The meeting point is at Mauna Kea above Hilo.

Looking for more things to do? Browse more Hawaii tours.

Check live availability and book Botanical Tour and waterfall swim at The Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve directly via FareHarbor.

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