Explore the Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve on Hawaii Island - Small Group Tour with Waterfall Swim

Experience the Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve on the Big Island of Hawaii with a guided nature walk through one of the island’s rarest upland ecosystems. This small group tour leads you along forest trails lined with native Hawaiian plants, temperate conifers, tropical palms, and vibrant fruit trees growing in the cool cloudforest above Hilo. Your guide shares the story of the bioreserve, its regenerative forestry work, and the conservation projects underway to protect the land. You’ll also meet the resident research goats that help support the forest’s long-term health, and along the way, learn how native ecology, carbon sequestration, and sustainable land management come together in this unique environment. Complete this one-of-a-kind eco-adventure at Kikala Falls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in a quiet natural pool with a stunning Hawaiian waterfall surrounded by lush forest.

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

Rare Mauna Kea Cloudforest Access: This small group eco tour takes you into one of Hawaiʻi Island’s rare montane cloudforest ecosystems, far from crowded resort areas and typical sightseeing routes.

Guided Ecology and Conservation Experience: Expert guides share the story of the Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve, regenerative forestry projects, and how native forests support clean water, wildlife, and a healthier island environment.

Diverse Plants, Fruit Trees, and Goats: Guests walk through living collections of native Hawaiian plants, exotic conifers, tropical fruit trees, and visit the research goat pen to see how animals are part of the land management plan.

Peaceful Waterfall Setting: When conditions allow, the tour includes time at Kikala Falls, a private waterfall and pool where guests can relax, take photos, and enjoy a refreshing swim surrounded by lush forest.

What to expect

• Join a guided small group eco tour in the Mauna Kea Cloudforest above Hilo
• Walk through native Hawaiian forest, exotic conifers, tropical palms, and ornamental plants
• See tropical fruit trees such as cacao, bananas, and other seasonal varieties growing in the cool uplands
• Learn about regenerative forestry, carbon sequestration, and conservation projects at the bioreserve
• Visit the goat research pen and hear how animals support sustainable land management
• Spend time at Kikala Falls with the opportunity to swim in the natural pool when conditions permit

Local expert tips

• Wear closed toe walking shoes with good grip, as trails can be uneven or muddy in the cloudforest, especially after rain.
• Bring a light jacket or rain shell since the higher elevation above Hilo is cooler and the mist can roll in quickly.
• If you are coming from Kona or Waikoloa, plan extra travel time and consider stopping in Hilo after the tour to enjoy local cafés, restaurants, and shops.
• Guests who plan to swim at Kikala Falls should wear their swimsuit under their clothes and bring a small towel so they can change comfortably.
• Pack a reusable water bottle and reef safe sunscreen; staying hydrated and protected from the sun will keep you comfortable throughout the walk.

What to bring

• Comfortable closed toe walking shoes
• Light jacket or rain shell for cool or misty conditions
• Reusable water bottle
• Swimsuit worn under your clothes if you plan to swim
• Small towel and a change of clothes
• Reef safe sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Camera or smartphone for photos of the forest, goats, and waterfall

Bioreserve information

The Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve is an off grid living arboretum and farm on the slopes of Mauna Kea above Hilo. The reserve features native Hawaiian plants, rare conifers, tropical palms, tropical fruit trees, and a goat research pen, all managed under a regenerative forestry model that supports wildlife, clean water, and long term forest health.

How to get there?

The Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve is located in the uplands above Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island. Most guests arrive by rental car, and detailed driving directions and meeting instructions are provided in your confirmation voucher. If you are staying on the Kona or Waikoloa side, plan extra time for the cross island drive and enjoy the scenic mountain and coastline views along the way.