Big Island Waterfalls Tour With Swimming and Botanical Garden

The Big Island of Hawaii boasts some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, and the Waterfalls Tour is the perfect way to experience it. Visitors will marvel at the lush tropical foliage, cascading waterfalls, and serene botanical gardens – all while enjoying a refreshing swim beneath the island’s largest privately accessible waterfall. This comprehensive tour offers a personalized small-group experience, ensuring ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs and take in Hawaii’s diverse natural beauty. What awaits those who embark on this journey is truly remarkable.

Key Points

• Full-day tour showcasing the natural beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island, including scenic Waipio Valley, Akaka Falls, and Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
• Highlights a 1.5-hour swim at Kulaniapia Falls, Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall.
• Offers breathtaking views of dramatic sea cliffs and lush rainforest at the Waipio Valley Lookout.
• Allows visitors to explore the 442-foot Akaka Falls and surrounding native Hawaiian flora and fauna.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, lunch, and snacks, with recommendations for appropriate attire and fitness level.

Tour Overview

The Big Island Waterfalls Tour with Swimming and Botanical Garden is a full-day experience that showcases the natural beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Visitors explore the island’s stunning landscapes, including scenic Waipio Valley, the impressive Akaka Falls, and the lush Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.

The highlight is a 1.5-hour swim at the private Kulaniapia Falls, Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall.

The tour also includes a brief stop at Rainbow Falls.

Travelers enjoy the personalized experience in a small group, with transportation provided in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter van.

Key Highlights of the Itinerary

Waipio Valley Lookout offers scenic views of dramatic sea cliffs, while the Akaka Falls State Park provides a 40-minute visit to witness the impressive 442-foot waterfall.

The tour then ventures to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, where guests can explore over 2,000 species of tropical plants for 1.5 hours.

Next, the group heads to Kulaniapia Falls, allowing 1.5 hours for swimming beneath Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall.

Finally, the tour stops at Rainbow Falls for a 15-minute visit before returning.

The tour’s key highlights include:

• Waipio Valley Lookout
• Akaka Falls State Park
• Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
• Kulaniapia Falls

Waipio Valley Lookout

Perched atop dramatic sea cliffs, the Waipio Valley Lookout offers visitors a breathtaking vista of this lush, verdant landscape.

Located on the northeastern side of the Big Island, the Waipio Valley is renowned for its towering waterfalls, dense rainforest, and rich Hawaiian history.

From the lookout point, guests can gaze out at the sweeping vistas, taking in the stunning views of the valley floor and the distant Pacific Ocean.

This scenic stop provides the perfect introduction to the natural wonders that await on the Big Island Waterfalls Tour.

Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls State Park is a stunning natural wonder located on the northeastern coast of the Big Island. Visitors can witness the breathtaking 442-foot waterfall cascading down lush, verdant cliffs.

Akaka Falls State Park boasts a breathtaking 442-foot waterfall cascading down lush, verdant cliffs on the Big Island’s northeastern coast.

The 40-minute visit to the park is included in the tour, allowing guests to soak in the serene beauty and take memorable photos.

Key highlights include:

• Hiking the scenic half-mile loop trail to the main viewpoint of Akaka Falls
• Spotting native Hawaiian flora and fauna along the way
• Exploring the additional Kahuna Falls, a smaller but equally captivating waterfall
• Enjoying the peaceful, tropical atmosphere of the state park

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

After exploring the mighty Akaka Falls, the tour continues to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, a lush oasis that showcases the incredible diversity of Hawaiian flora.

Spread across 40 acres, the garden features over 2,000 species of tropical plants from around the world. Visitors can wander through winding paths, marvel at towering palm trees, and discover rare endemic species.

The 1.5-hour visit allows ample time to take in the garden’s serene ambiance and take in the stunning ocean vistas. It’s a tranquil respite from the island’s more strenuous activities.

Kulaniapia Falls

Following the rocky descent into the Waipio Valley, the tour then leads visitors to the stunning Kulaniapia Falls.

This privately accessible waterfall is the largest on the Big Island, cascading over 250 feet. Guests enjoy 1.5 hours to swim and explore the natural pool beneath the falls.

The experience offers:

Opportunity to swim beneath a towering, thundering waterfall. Tranquil atmosphere surrounded by lush, tropical foliage. Chance to capture breathtaking photos. Time to relax and rejuvenate in the refreshing waters.

• Opportunity to swim beneath a towering, thundering waterfall
• Tranquil atmosphere surrounded by lush, tropical foliage
• Chance to capture breathtaking photos of the falls and its surroundings
• Time to relax and rejuvenate in the refreshing waters

Rainbow Falls

The tour’s final stop is the free-to-visit Rainbow Falls, where visitors can witness the enchanting natural phenomenon of a rainbow-like arc forming over the cascading waters.

This 80-foot waterfall is a popular attraction, offering stunning views and photo opportunities. The falls are fed by the Wailuku River and surrounded by lush, tropical foliage.

Though a quick 15-minute visit, it’s a memorable finale to the day’s adventure. Guests should pack their cameras and be prepared for the mist generated by the falls.

Tour Inclusions and Requirements

The Big Island Waterfalls Tour provides a comprehensive package that caters to the needs of its guests. Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, lunch, and snacks, as well as all taxes, fees, and gratuities for the guides.

To ensure a comfortable experience, the tour recommends:

• Wearing closed-toe walking shoes
• Bringing a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes for swimming
• Ensuring a moderate fitness level, as the tour isn’t suitable for young children or those with serious medical conditions
• Preparing for potentially hot conditions, especially in the botanical gardens

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

While participants are provided with bottled water, lunch, and snacks, they are generally allowed to bring their own additional food on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator does not offer an option to extend the tour duration. However, guests can explore the sites at their own pace during the scheduled itinerary, which includes ample time at each location.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

Yes, the tour offers a discounted price of $258.06 per person, down from the standard price of $286.74. Plus, there may be package deals available when booking this tour together with other attractions or accommodations on the Big Island.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Locations?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows customers to customize the itinerary to visit specific locations, though this may impact the overall tour duration and cost. Travelers should check with the operator about their options for customization.

What Is the Policy for Rescheduling or Cancelling the Tour?

The tour company allows rescheduling or cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee, while rescheduling is subject to availability. Refunds are provided as per the tour’s cancellation policy.

The Sum Up

The Big Island Waterfalls Tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty. From the serene Waipio Valley to the majestic Akaka Falls and the lush Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, this tour provides a comprehensive experience of the island’s diverse landscapes. The highlight is the refreshing swim at Kulaniapia Falls, the largest privately accessible waterfall on the Big Island. This tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the natural wonders of Hawaii.