Quick Details
Adult
ages 18+
$ 80
Kamaʻāina
Hawaiʻi residents with ID
$ 60
Student
12-18 and College with student ID
$ 60
Grab binoculars and discover Hawai‘i Island’s unique birds in the peaceful morning cloud forest
Join our naturalist guide as you quietly walk the lush Montane Jungle Trail, listening for native Hawaiian honeycreepers and other unique birds found only in the Hawaiian Archipelago. Learn essential birding skills like observation and listening, explore the ecological roles birds play in this delicate cloud forest ecosystem, and understand the impact and interactions between native and non-native species. Gain insight into the cloud forest’s vital role as bird habitat and the conservation challenges these species face.
Whether you’re a beginner or avid birder, you’ll leave able to identify several native birds by sight or song, a gained appreciation for the birds of Hawai’i and the birds in your own backyard at home, and you’ll feel inspired to help protect these precious creatures and their homes.
Our mission is to inspire conscious connection with nature, self, and community to cultivate a world where humanity thrives in harmony with the Earth.
This tour is for you if:
- You want to learn/practice birding skills in a beautiful, peaceful setting
- You are new to birding or an experienced birder
- You’re passionate about native Hawaiian birds and their conservation
- You’re eager to explore Hawai‘i Island’s tropical cloud forest by sound and sight
- You want to support ongoing efforts to protect Hawai‘i’s unique bird species
- You’re looking for a slow peaceful morning amidst the vibrant bird song in the diverse Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
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- Binoculars
- Cloud Forest Birding Guide
- Bird ID tips
- Walking sticks
- Bug spray
- Poncho incase of rain
- Water fill station
- Photo opportunities
- Peacefulness
- Appreciation & Respect
- Lasting memories
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Available for Purchase:
- Drinks other than water
- Snacks
- Merchandise (including Birds of the Sanctuary Merchandise)
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1. Welcome & Introduction (15 minutes)
Meet at the trailhead for a short overview of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, its unique plants, and the birds you’ll see.
2. Guided Birding Walk (1.5+ hours)
Walk the Montane Jungle Trail with your guide. Learn how to identify birds, listen for different species, and enjoy the peaceful forest.
3. Wrap-up & Reflection
Finish with time for questions, sharing observations, and appreciating the cloud forest.
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- Exclusive early access to the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary for prime birding (the most vocal and active time of day for birds!)
- Hear and see native Hawaiian honeycreepers and other unique birds
- Enjoy the peaceful early morning hours and tranquil sounds of the forest waking up
- Explore a rare tropical conifer forest ecosystem and jungle ecosystem
- Witness ongoing reforestation efforts in action
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Please arrive at least 10 minutes early for check-in. Experience starts on time.
If you are more than 5 minutes late and the group has started you may not be able to join. -
- Your Own Binoculars (if you have them)
- Birding guides or field books (optional)
- Smartphone with birding apps like Merlin or eBird (optional)
- Rain jacket (be prepared for rain)
- Comfortable outdoor clothing with layers (pants recommended) — expect temperatures 10 to 15 degrees cooler than down by the ocean
- Closed-toe shoes (trail conditions can be uneven and muddy)
- Hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Desired snacks
- Positive attitude, open heart, and open mind
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- Participants should be confident walking on uneven terrain, including natural volcanic rock and tree roots.
- Participants must be comfortable walking and standing for up to 2 hours without prolonged seating breaks.
- Due to the need to stay quiet to observe birds, this tour is not suitable for young children.
- This tour is not suitable for strollers, walkers, or wheelchairs due to trail conditions.
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Can I explore the Sanctuary on my own or do I need a guide?
- For safety and to enrich your experience, all visitors must be accompanied by a guide. Our expert naturalists share the story of this privately stewarded land and help you spot and understand the unique birds and ecosystem.
When are your tours?
- Our guided birding tour is offered every Saturday from 7:00 to 9:00 am. Other tours are available every day of the week. Please check our tour schedule for the most up-to-date availability.
What do I need to bring for the tour?
- Please wear closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking, bring water, a camera or smartphone for photos, and a rain jacket—you never know when a cloud forest shower will appear! Don’t forget your binoculars and a curious spirit.
When should I arrive for the tour?
- Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts. Tours begin promptly, so arriving early ensures you’re ready to start on time.
Do you have a bathroom?
- Yes, there is a bathroom available at the trailhead.
Do you have drinking water and food available?
- We do not provide water or food, so please bring what you need.
Do you have a trash can?
- No trash cans are available on-site. Please follow pack-in, pack-out principles and take all your trash with you to help keep the Sanctuary clean.
Do you sell gift cards?
- Yes! Gift cards are available for purchase on our website. Click the “Book Now” button and scroll to the bottom of the experience listings to find the gift card option.
Where are you located?
- We are located 15 minutes up the mountain from Kailua-Kona Airport and about 20 minutes from Kailua-Kona town.
Do you offer private tours or school group experiences?
- Yes! Contact us by phone or email to inquire about private tours or group bookings for schools and organizations.
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Intention: to address the limited capacity and high demand of our experiences, this policy aims to provide all customers an equal opportunity to visit the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary when desired.
48 hour cancellation policy:
- Customers may receive a full refund, credit, or rebooking up to 48 hours before your reservation time.
- All bookings are considered final within 48 hours of your reservation start time.
- 50% rebooking fee will be applied to rebookings within 48 hours.
- No refunds or credits will be issued within 48 hours (without Trip Protection).
Trip Protection OPTION:
- Trip Protection may be purchased at checkout for maximum flexibility and peace of mind, and allows for last minute cancellations up to 2 hours prior to reservation time for a full refund, rebooking, or credit.
- Requests must be made by email or phone.
- No refunds, rebooking, or credit will be issued for cancellations within 2 hours of reservation start time, late arrivals, or no shows.
No refunds will be issued due to weather unless operations are cancelled by the operator. All customers must understand that this is a cloud forest and rain should be expected and prepared for. Additionally, Operator cannot guarantee any weather conditions.
Operator reserves the right to cancel any experiences at any time. In the case of Operator cancellation, customers will have the opportunity to rebook their experience or receive a full refund or credit. This may be due to, but not limited to safety, inclement weather, or other unforeseen circumstances.