Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should we wear? Each tour is unique as some offer opportunities for swimming, while others require sturdy footwear. Reference each Adventure Page to see what you should wear and bring.

2. How do I make a reservation for an adventure with Hawaii Forest & Trail? Name, address, telephone number and accommodations on the Big Island, arrival and departure dates, and credit card information. If you are going on a full day tour we will also need a lunch order. Check-in via phone to confirm your pickup time when you arrive on the island.

3. Do we need to make reservations in advance? This is recommended, especially on full day tours. At least one week prior is strongly suggested.

4. Can I call the day before and get on a tour once we are on the island? Yes, although your tour of choice may be sold out. We do keep a waiting list.

5. What is your cancellation policy? Depending on your group size, you need to give a minimum of 24 hours cancellation notice. Groups of 5 or less require 24 hours notice. For groups of 6 - 9, 48 hours notice is required, and for groups more than 10, 72 hours notice is required. With less than the minimum notice, guests are charged the full price of the tour.

6. What happens if it rains? We go rain or shine. Guides always bring raingear for the guests. We only cancel when weather makes transportation or walking hazardous.

7. Where do your tours leave from? Departure locations vary from Adventure to Adventure, so check your specific Adventure page for departure locations. Also, we do hotel pickups on a limited basis. Contact our friendly staff to find out if a hotel pickup is available for your Adventure.

8. How do we get to Hawaii Forest and Trail headquarters? We are located on Highway 19 about three miles north of the town of Kailua-Kona across from the Honokohau Harbor entrance on the 'mountain side' of the highway behind the Tesoro gas station

9. Do you have any special discounts? AAA, military, group and return guest discounts are available.

10. What are your office hours? We take your reservations from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm weekdays, and 6:30 am to 5:00 pm weekends. Our retail store closes 30 minutes before. All times Hawaiian Standard.

11. How many people do you take on tour at a time? Four to 12 guests.

12. How knowledgeable are your drivers? We take great pride in having some the best Interpretive Guides on the island. Our Guides are trained in island ecology, geology, natural history, in addition to safe driving practices, customer service and first aid.

13. What tours do you operate that are not accessible to the public? Our Kohala Waterfalls, Kohala Wai PinzTrek and Holoholo Hualalai PinzTrek Adventures are all on private land. Additionally, the Hakalau National Wildlife Refuge Adventure is via permit only.

14. Do you operate tour on the other Hawaiian Islands? No, but we'd be happy to refer you to a reputable outfitter.

15. How do I send feedback regarding my experience with Hawaii Forest & Trail? Please forward all your feedback to us at info@hawaii-forest.com. Or, if you prefer, you can fax us your feedback at 808-331-8704.

16. How many people go on a tour? Four to 12 guests.

17. Can I have an exclusive tour for just myself and my family? Yes, we do private tours. For more information, check out our Customer or Private Tours section, or contact our friendly staff.

18. What is your best tour for children? Kohala Waterfalls Adventure, Holoholo Hualalai PinzTrek Adventure, Kohala Wai PinzTrek Adventure and Kilauea Volcano Adventure are all great family tours.

19. What if I am looking for a longer hike? We can do longer hikes by request on an exclusive basis. For more information, check out our Customer or Private Tours section, or contact our friendly staff.

20. What about tipping the guides? In considering a gratuity for your guide, please consider the following: did you feel welcomed, was the tour operated safely, did the guide provide for your care and comfort, was the tour enjoyable, educational, and engaging?