Hike into the interior of Kauai and discover for yourself the rainforest, mountains and waterfalls that make its wilderness so highly revered.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Very few roads pierce the wild interior of Kauai, which is often voted Hawaii’s most beautiful island. Kauai was even chosen as the ideal place to film Jurassic Park, thanks to its prehistoric-looking thick rainforest, lofty waterfalls and jagged mountains, which tumble down towards the Pacific Ocean. These spaces, plus the island’s remote coves and beaches are best reached on foot, with plenty of group or private hiking tours available to the intrepid traveler. Here are five of the best. Please note that some of the tour prices listed below are per group, while some are per person.
Kauai Guided Hike and Waterfall Swim
The best value Kauai hiking tour provides access to the private lands of Hule’ia National Wildlife Refuge. The verdant landscape wouldn’t be so lush without plenty of water, which is particularly evident in the 30-foot Bamboo Falls and 60-foot Papakolea Falls, both of which are visited during the two-hour hike with a private guide. You’ll also have chance to relax and swim at the latter waterfall, so remember to bring a swimming costume. This tour runs on Mon, Wed and Sat. From $94 per person.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Hidden Valley Falls Kayak and Kauai Hike Adventure
Another popular outdoors exploration of Hule’ia National Wildlife Refuge adds kayaking to the itinerary. Paddle up the Hule’ia River, deeper into Kauai’s jungle wilderness until you reach the head of a short hiking trail, which threads through the tangle of forest for just under a mile to reach a waterfall. Swim beneath the falls and snack on a picnic lunch before hopping on a motorized canoe for the journey back to the urban world. Tours usually only run on Tue and Sat. From $158 per person.
Kauai Tortoises, Caves, and Cliffs South Shore Hike
Kauai is home to plenty of unique fauna. Although the southern shore of Kauai is the most developed, it still retains an air of wilderness to it, broken by pockets of nature preserves and tropical gardens. This private, three-hour hiking tour explores the Makauwahi Cave Reserve, and Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, where you might be able to spot wildlife such as giant land tortoises, which give the rocky limestone terrain an added prehistoric feel. Tours are available daily and the price covers groups of up to four people. From $421 per group.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Half-Day Kauai Adventure
Explore eastern Kauai’s lush jungles along the Kuilau (pronounced ‘koo-E-lau’) Ridge Trail. This private guided tour seeks out the remarkable flora of this island and details the ways in which it has enriched local culture. Hawaiians have long walked this path to access plants that can be used for making sails, roofs and clothing items, such as hula skirts. This hike also passes through a grove of eucalyptus deglupta, better known as rainbow eucalyptus, with its unique multicolored bark. There will also be time to walk a little section of the shoreline. From $532 per group.
Waimea Canyon & Kokeʻe State Park Private Tour
The longer your tour, the deeper into the wilderness of Kauai you’ll be able to hike. Heading to the remoter western side of Kauai already brings you closer to the island’s most remarkable volcanic landscapes. During the full-day itinerary, you’ll walk through Waimea Canyon State Park, where the canyon’s walls are mottled many shades of orange and green. At one section, the Waipo’o Falls plunge 800 feet (244m) over the edge. Hikes are limited to a few miles here, making it an ideal tour for walkers of all abilities. The listed price covers groups of up to four people. From $1,085 per group.