Private Mauna Loa Ancient Forest and Bird Hike
A private five-hour hike across historic Mauna Loa lava flows into native koa and ʻōhiʻa forest, with time to look and listen for Hawaiʻi forest birds.
About this tour
Cross open lava on the Puʻu ʻŌʻō Trail before entering old forest islands known as kīpuka. These pockets of koa and ʻōhiʻa lehua survived between Mauna Loa lava flows and provide important habitat for native Hawaiian forest birds.
The private out-and-back route is approximately seven to eight miles and takes about five hours. It crosses the 1855 and 1881 lava flows and includes rough lava, mud, steep sections and exposed ground. The guide sets the pace for the private party and includes breaks for safety, observation and bird activity.
ʻIʻiwi and ʻApapane are among the native birds associated with this forest. The operator’s current species information also describes possibilities such as Hawaiʻi ʻAmakihi, Hawaiʻi ʻElepaio, ʻŌmaʻo, ʻIo and Nēnē. All birds are wild, and sightings vary with weather, season and current activity.
Private departures are available daily, normally starting between 8:00 and 10:00 am. Early morning is recommended for bird activity. Active children aged seven and older may join. Food for the outing includes a meal together with sandwiches and snacks. The operator can also supply a backpack, trekking poles and a rain jacket. Each guest should bring at least 1.5 litres of water. There are no restrooms at the trailhead.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to United States.
Birds you can spot
Guides
Itinerary
Day 1
Mauna Loa lava flows and native forest birding
Meet the guide at the privately confirmed Saddle Road location for a safety briefing and gear preparation. Follow the Puʻu ʻŌʻō Trail across the 1855 and 1881 lava flows, then enter forested kīpuka with koa and ʻōhiʻa lehua. Pause to listen and look for native forest birds before returning along the same route.
Locations & map
- Puʻu ʻŌʻō Trail and Mauna Loa kīpuka - Hawaiʻi Island, Hawaii United States (High-elevation lava and native forest with quickly changing sun, wind, rain and trail conditions.)
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Private departures are offered daily on request, subject to current mountain and weather conditions.
Included
- Private local guide - Private guiding, safety talk and gear preparation are included.
- Meal, sandwiches and snacks - Food is provided during the hike.
- Backpacks, trekking poles and rain jackets - Loan equipment is provided for the route.
Not included
- Transport to the meeting point - Guests arrange their own transport to the confirmed meeting place.
- Personal water - Bring at least 1.5 litres of water per person.
Transport & stays
- Self-drive to the confirmed meeting point The exact trail meeting point is provided privately after booking; the public page names only the general Saddle Road area. | Meet: Saddle Road area, confirmed privately. | Pickup: No pickup is stated for this hike.
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
How difficult is the hike?
It is a difficult seven-to-eight-mile route over rough lava, mud, steep sections and exposed ground. Guests should be comfortable with a demanding five-hour backcountry hike.
Are particular birds guaranteed?
No. ʻIʻiwi and ʻApapane are important possibilities in the native forest, but all sightings depend on natural bird activity and current conditions.
Can children join?
Active children aged seven and older are welcome, provided they are prepared for the distance and terrain.
What should each guest bring?
Bring at least 1.5 litres of water per person and suitable hiking footwear and clothing. Backpacks, trekking poles and rain jackets are provided.
Are restrooms available at the start?
No. There are no restrooms at the trailhead.
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.