Cultural Interpretive Hike Tours
Join Native Hawaiian guides from the Kipahulu ‘Ohana on a hike through history in the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park, visiting sites representing several eras, arriving at the inspiring beauty of Kapahu Living Farm™, where traditional lo’i kalo (taro patches) have been restored to active production with taro and other culturally important plants.
The Kipahulu Ohana operates this exclusive interpretive program through an agreement with Haleakala National Park. Kipahulu ‘Ohana is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all proceeds from our interpretive tours directly support our cultural and environmental restoration projects.
Kipahulu Ohana was recognized in 2005 by the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s “Keep It Hawaii” Kahili Award for “authentic portrayal of the Hawaiian culture.” Kapahu Living Farm is featured in ISLANDS magazine's 2007 “Blue List” of 100 leaders worldwide in responsible tourism “who ensure that islands remain environmentally and culturally sound for future generations.” This tour was featured in Spirit of Aloha in November 2007 as one of 14 “classic and lesser-known day trips around the Islands”
(Note: Kipahulu ‘Ohana hosts customized tours for educational and community groups. If you are with a school or other group, the fees below do not apply. Please see our Educational Group Hosting page instead.)
2-HOUR HIKE
Hike through history to Kapahu Living Farm™
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation change: 350 feet
$75 per person
(Two people minimum)
To request a reservation, contact us.
FEATURES OF THE HIKE
A sampling of traditional Hawaiian foods grown at the farm
Ethnobotanical sharing about the plants that you will see along the route, including native (endemic) Hawaiian plants, “Canoe Plants” (Polynesian introduced) that are of special importance to Native Hawaiian culture, and exotic invasive plants
Ancient habitation areas where stone walls and house sites are visible
‘Ohe’o Bridge with scenic view above famous Pools of ‘Ohe’o
Historic Kanalulu House, built in the 1920s and restored in 2002
Kapahu Living Farm™, an ancient taro farm restored to active production
WHAT TO BRING
Food, gas facilities, and potable water are not available at Kipahulu. Fill your gas tank and bring water, snacks, rain gear, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, and hiking shoes for each member of your group.
LOCATION
The Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park. Follow Hwy 36 from Hana towards Kaupo. Allow a 3-hour one-way drive from Wailea or Ka’anapali areas.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
To schedule special tours for groups or schools, please visit our Group Hosting form on Kapahu Living Farm page.
MAHALO
QUESTIONS?
Email ohanakipahulu.org or call 808-248-8673.
Please note that this tour is “on demand” based on reservations, and is not a regular daily hike. We can be flexible with date, time and activities included to customize the hike to your interests, but the availability of a guide depends on our schedule. If you want to check on availability before making a reservation, especially if it is less than 48 hours in advance of your desired date, please email ohana@kipahulu.org. Also note that we require a two-person minimum group size to make a reservation.
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