Waipio Valley, located in north Hamakua, is Big Island's "Valley of the Kings" and remains one Hawaii's most unique and sacred native preservation sites. As the rain falls, see its' beautiful waterfalls pouring into a network of wet-land taro farms, over roads and black sandy shores. Horses run wild here and age-old Hawaiian traditions are passed on to new generations that inhabit the valley. An experienced guide and special 4WD vehicle is necessary to make it down the very steep valley road.
Tips for visiting Waipio Valley:
- The valley lookout is accessible at anytime and parking is limited.
- All permitted tours of Waipio Valley do not operate on Sundays to give the valley a rest.
- We do not recommend driving down into the valley on your own as the access road is extremely steep and dangerous. Water that feeds the valley’s wetland farms make its way over roads and after heavy rains can be difficult to cross.
- Hiking back up from the valley is considered strenuous and should only be attempted if you are physically capable of making the trip and know where to go.
- Most of the land at Waipio valley is privately owned and public access is limited to the beach and Mulawai Trail.
- Tours at Waipio Valley are either down on the valley floor or skirting the rim. Wagon tours visit the back part of the valley which is not accessible to visitors driving on their own.
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