DESCRIPTION
Embark on a captivating journey through essential Maui, where nature's splendor, historic landmarks, and charming country towns await your discovery. Immerse yourself in the experience while we handle the driving for you in our deluxe touring vehicle. Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable local guide shares captivating Hawaiian history, legends, and insider tips, enriching your exploration. Chilled bottled water and local treats are included, offering a refreshing taste of Hawaii.
Begin your adventure at Haleakala National Park, where the daytime sun bathes the steep slopes in a golden glow, and endemic wildlife freely roams the breathtaking landscape. Witness the grace of Nene geese in their native habitat and unravel the mystery of the rare Silversword plant.
Descend through the Haleakala Visitor Center Overlook Areas, offering stunning views of Kula and upcountry Maui. Stop for a curated lunch at Hali'imaile General Store, to savor the flavors of Maui. Enjoy a tour at Pau Vodka Distillery. NOTE: Guests under 21 must wait outside during tastings (15-20 minutes), and a valid ID is required.
Descend through the Haleakala Visitor Center Overlook Areas, offering stunning views of Kula and upcountry Maui. Browse charming stores and soak in the ambiance of the former paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town.
As you leisurely stroll past a meandering stream, immerse yourself in a forest bursting with native Hawaiian plant life. Look up to behold the iconic Iao Needle, a natural outcropping draped in emerald green vegetation, soaring 1,200 feet over the historic Iao Valley - once a sacred burial ground for Hawaii's royalty.
Immerse yourself in the laid-back spirit of Maui, where every stop unveils a new facet of the island's rich history and natural beauty.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Haleakala National Park is home to over 1,000 different species of plant life. During the 38-mile drive up the dormant volcano, youll see the magnificent Silversword plant, found nowhere else on earth, and pass ancient sacred locations, and breathtaking views from the safety and comfort of your mini coach.
- Haleakala was formed approximately 1 million years ago through the building of layers upon layers of flowing lava. It has been a sacred location for Polynesian people who settled on the island 400-650 A.D.
- Haleakala Visitor Center, at 9,740 feet elevation was constructed in 1936 and is a small stone structure on the edge of a cliff.
- Experience Climate and Topographical Changes as you gently glide through the varying elevations. Keep an eye out for the rare Nene Goose.
- Views of Kula come into focus when approaching the open country slopes of the district meet agricultural land in this rustic region, home to early Portuguese and Chinese immigrant plantation workers.
- Iao Valley, a dense rainforest and ancient battleground, it was a burial site for ancient Hawaiian royalty. The iconic, greenery covered Iao Needle towers 1,200 feet above the valley floor. (Temporarily closed for construction until April 15th, 2023. A temporary stop will be made at Kula Marketplace until the Valley is open again to the public.)
INCLUSIONS
- Round Trip Hotel Transfers
- Lively tour narration by delightful, knowledgeable driver guide
- All Admission Fees
- Scenic 38-mile driving ascent of Haleakala
GOOD TO KNOW
- Availability: Wednesday Only
- Time: 6:00 AM to 5:30 pm
- Location: Transportation from most Maui hotels in included
- Duration: approximaltey 11.5 hours
RESTRICTIONS
- This tour is not recommended for guests with heart or respiratory conditions that may be exacerbated due to high altitude. People who have gone scuba diving should wait 72 hours before going on this tour. This tour is operated on rough, winding roads. It is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back or motion problems.
- Note: Guests under 21 must wait outside during tastings (1520 minutes), and valid ID is required.