Kohala Waterfalls Adventure in Kailua-Kona, HI

First and foremost - Hawaii Forest and Trail is a top-notch organization. They were very professional, incredibly well-organized, and very responsive to our questions and needs. Our guide, Maka, was outstanding and definitely the highlight of the trip. He was clear, entertaining, passionate about his work, patient, and great with the kids. All in all, the trip was good for what it was. We were expecting a bit more "adventure," but the walking portion of the trip took just under an hour and most of that time was spent standing on a bridge or swimming in a waterfall (which we enjoyed!). There were four waterfalls in rapid succession and Maka provided very interesting commentary on the history, culture, and science of the Big Island and the areas we saw. The view at the place we had lunch was breathtaking. My kids were really looking forward to off-roading in the military vehicle described in older online reviews, but that has since been replaced with a safer and more comfortable van. We never felt rushed, but it seems like there could have been time for more hiking or exploration. The trip was advertised as 6-7 hours (depending on your pickup and drop-off location), but our trip was just under 5 hours from start to finish. At the end of the day, it felt like a very expensive outing compared to other similar trips we have taken.

This excursion was excellent! Mike and Eric helped us to have the absolute best time. Both of them were knowledgeable, fun, and super down to earth. My husband and I were able to learn so much due to the guidance and attention to detail Mike and Eric both provided. We felt safe, and loved swimming in the waterfall! I won’t spoil too much, but the location we ate lunch in… wow. If you’re thinking about doing this excursion, I would definitely recommend booking with Mike and Eric! 10/10!

I had expected to see water falls, but I got so much more out of this experience. Our guide Mark was wonderful, he was very knowledgeable in terms of plants and animals. He was also very attentive to everyone in the group. We had a person with disability and Mark took good care of them, while never let the others feeling neglected. I completely admire his professionalism and most important, I had a very good day.

If you're in Kona Hawaii I highly recommend this tour. I am a senior (now) for my birthday I joined my sister and friend on this hike through amazing waterfalls and sights. I got to swim in a waterfall that I probably will never have a chance to do again. From the time we were picked up by Taj (our guide) in a most comfortable mini tour van with captain seats a maximum of 14 people in a tour to the beginning of our tour Taj was knowledgeable, fun and caring of all our needs. We were provided with water, walking sticks, rain cover, towel as well as a back pack to carry our things in. it was an energetic walk through private property that took some energy (But I am only in moderate shape) and I was able to do it quite well. Taj made sure we were careful and safe in our walk. There was waterfalls, walks on bridges going up and down trails that I am so glad I took this tour. After our swim in the waterfall we hiked back up the trail to our van and went to a gorgeous spot overlooking the ocean and cliffs. We had a lunch of fresh made sandwiches, chips and fruit drinks or water with cookies for dessert. The sandwiches were so fresh and filling that I had the 2nd half the next day and it still tasted like it was made that day. The views and information Taj gave us on our way there and home about the Volcano's and history of the island, the birds finished the trip...I even got up the next day none the worse for wear. So if you're looking for an amazing adventure and something different to do the Kohala Waterfalls Adventure tour is the one for you. thanks Taj couldn't have had a better time.

This trip enabled us to see 7 backcountry falls that we would otherwise never have gotten near, and Mark was a superb guide. At the end of the tour we had a picnic lunch at a truly impressive view of the coastline. The hike was not too strenuous, but the tour company supplied walking sticks which we highly recommend that you use.