Explore Kona's unique cloud forest with an expert guide and immerse yourself in vibrant tropical flora and bird songs.
2.5–3 hrs
Guide, walking sticks, water
Journey through the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary on a 2.5-hour guided walk and connect with Hawaiʻi's rare montane jungle ecosystem. Learn about geology, climate, and conservation while surrounded by towering trees, ferns, bamboo, and native honeycreepers.
Can I explore the Sanctuary on my own?
All visitors must be with a guide for safety and to learn the property’s story.
When are your tours?
Tours run daily; check the schedule for current availability.
What should I bring?
Closed-toe shoes, water, camera and a rain jacket are recommended.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive 10 minutes before start time; the tour begins promptly.
Do you have a bathroom?
Yes, a restroom is available at the trailhead.
Do you have drinking water and food?
Please bring your own; none is provided on site.
Where are you located?
The Sanctuary is about 15 minutes from Kailua-Kona Airport.
Do you offer private or school group tours?
Yes, private experiences can be arranged.
Participants must be comfortable walking on uneven volcanic terrain for up to 3 hours. Strollers, walkers and wheelchairs are not permitted.
Full refund is available up to 48 hours before the tour. Within 48 hours bookings are final; rebooking incurs a 50% fee and no refunds are given. No refunds for late arrivals, no-shows or cancellations within 2 hours. Operator may cancel for safety or weather and will offer rebooking or a full refund.
Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
This passionate conservation project offers something truly special: the chance to walk through Hawaii's only accessible cloud forest while directly supporting its restoration. Visitors consistently describe the experience as "magical" and "heartwarming," especially after learning how the sanctuary has transformed the landscape in just over 40 years. The guides—Anna, Daniel, Brie, and Drew (whose grandfather started the project)—earn glowing praise for their extensive knowledge of native plants, Hawaiian cultural traditions, and the forest's history. The tours accommodate various fitness levels, with one reviewer noting their 90-year-old husband handled the terrain beautifully. Beyond the standard forest walks, many visitors rave about the sound bath experiences with Brooke, which incorporate crystal singing bowls and vocal alchemy in a serene natural setting. The diverse ecosystem provides a complete contrast to the beach resort areas, making it an ideal excursion for those wanting to experience a different side of the Big Island without driving to the east side. Repeat visitors are common, with people returning to see how the forest continues to evolve.
Stumbled upon this gem of a place with a random google search. Of course it was beautiful and calm, but I didn’t expect it to be so diverse. I visited with my friend and we did the forest walk and it was such an educating and lovely experience. Drew happened to be our guide and told us all about how the sanctuary started with his grandfather and it was truly heartwarming. I definitely will be visiting again and bringing my friends and family here. Would also be great to see how the terrain and species change after some time.
huma ahmad
October 12, 2025
Stumbled upon this gem of a place with a random google search. Of course it was beautiful and calm, but I didn’t expect it to be so diverse. I visited with my friend and we did the forest walk and it was such an educating and lovely experience. Drew happened to be our guide and told us all about how the sanctuary started with his grandfather and it was truly heartwarming. I definitely will be visiting again and bringing my friends and family here. Would also be great to see how the terrain and species change after some time.
huma ahmad
October 12, 2025