Extended Cloud Forest Tour
· Montane Jungle Trail ·
Experience Details
Duration:
Extended Cloud Forest Tour (2.5 Hours).
Location:
Conveniently located only 15 minutes up the mountain from the Kona Airport, and 20 minutes from the Kailua-Kona pier.
Details:
Beginning at 3,000 ft elevation, this tour covers a distance of approximately 1.5 miles and approximately 100 feet of elevation change. The trails are all natural terrain with surface-level roots fanning across the forest floor and some areas where navigating over bigger roots is required.
Discover the magic of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary on this extended adventure. Learn, connect with nature, breathe in the freshest air, and rejuvenate your body and soul.
About The Experience
Join us on a journey through the cloud forest and immerse yourself in the lush biodiversity of this unique ecosystem. As you meander along the path you might find yourself surrounded by a literal cloud, truly capturing the essence of a cloud forest. Witness droplets of water cascading from the canopy, making their way through epiphytes to the forest floor. This experience not only offers breathtaking beauty but has often been described as “filling my heart with gratitude”.
Bathe in the essence of a tropical montane seasonally dry cloud forest, breathe in the freshest air, and cool off from the heat of the beach, while discovering the wonders of nature’s rarest forest ecosystem! Did you know that cloud forests make up less than 1% of all forests globally? Learn the difference between a cloud forest and a rainforest and why this delicate microclimate is so important to our island.
About Parking
Park on the street near the sign and your guide will meet you at the start of your adventure! We’re excited to share the messages of the forest with you! Please don’t be late.
What should you bring for your visit?
Wear comfortable close-toed shoes suitable for hiking, and don’t forget the essentials: water, a camera, and a lightweight rain jacket in case of unexpected showers. Cloud forests receive nearly half as much rainfall as rainforests, but it’s always good to be prepared. And be sure to bring your adventure hat and your joy filled spirit to complete your preparations!
Gallery:
Understanding the Forest
Beyond the enchanting beauty of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, we offer an opportunity to explore the intricacies of this distinct cloud forest ecosystem. Our sanctuary is not only visually remarkable; you will learn about the geology, meteorology, biology, and human impact of this extraordinary habitat. Gain insights into the evolution and history of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary.
If you're still wondering if the extended cloud forest tour is for you,
here's a quick checklist to consider:
Love of Nature
If you have a deep love for the natural world, a passion for plants and forests, and a desire to explore as a naturalist, this experience is ideal for you.
Full Immersion
If you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of the sanctuary covering a broader area, encompassing a deeper level of education, and a more immersive experience with the forest, this is for you!
Exclusive Experience
As the most accessible high elevation (3,000ft) tropical cloud forest in the United States, we offer an exclusive opportunity to discover a one-of-a-kind ecosystem that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world.
Environmental Conservation
The sanctuary’s mission includes being stewards of the forest and sharing the messages of the forest. By supporting and visiting the sanctuary, you are helping us expand the collective of responsible communities making a positive impact on our planet. Take a break from the fast pace of everyday living and allow the wisdom of the forest to surround and inspire you.
Educational Opportunities
This tour is designed to promote a deeper understanding of the natural world. While gaining knowledge about this cloud forest and the native and non-native plants that thrive within, visitors also have a chance to experience the wellness benefits that nature offers to humanity. If you enjoy learning, you’ll thoroughly enjoy this adventure!
Cool Climate
If you’re ready for an adventure beyond beaches and heat, 15 minutes up the mountain from the Kona coastline is a surprising lush green paradise with towering trees and the freshest air. If it sounds refreshing to cool off in a forest that is approximately 10-15 degrees cooler than the heat of the beach, then this guided tour is for you!