This is the essential Maui experience with our Best of Maui Tour, featuring a day filled with the natural beauty, historic sites, and the unique charm of country towns. Witness the grandeur of Haleakalā, a volcano sacred to the Hawaiian people, and explore the lush 'Iao Valley, known for its towering emerald needle and rich history. Wander through the quaint streets of Makawao town, where the island's laid-back lifestyle and artistic flair come to life. This tour offers an intimate glimpse into the heart of Maui, blending breathtaking landscapes with cultural insights and local flavors.

What to Expect

The tour begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure across Maui's diverse landscapes. As we ascend the slopes of the dormant Haleakalā volcano, you'll be treated to a changing tapestry of ecosystems and climates, each more fascinating than the last. The 38-mile drive to the summit reveals the rare Silversword plant and panoramic views that stretch across the island.

Upon reaching the Haleakalā Visitor Center, perched at 9,740 feet, you'll feel on top of the world, with vistas that capture the island's beauty in a dramatic sunrise display. Haleakalā, known as the "House of the Sun," is not only a geological marvel but also a place steeped in cultural lore and significance for the Hawaiian people. Its vast crater, lunar-like landscape, and unique ecosystems are the result of millions of years of volcanic activity, shaping the island's topography and biodiversity. Culturally, it has been a sacred site for centuries, playing a central role in native Hawaiian cosmology and traditions, where it is revered as a place where the gods communed with the ancestors, and its summit was believed to be the portal to the spiritual world.

As we descend, the rural charm of Kula and Makawao, nestled in Maui's upcountry, embody the island's agricultural and paniolo (cowboy) heritage. Kula's fertile lands reflect its farming roots and multicultural influences, offering serene landscapes and a connection to nature. Makawao, steeped in cowboy history, thrives as an artistic enclave, where local traditions merge with a vibrant arts scene. Together, these towns showcase Maui's rich cultural tapestry and rustic charm, making them quintessential stops for understanding the island's diverse legacy.

The adventure continues to 'Iao Valley, a lush sanctuary in the heart of Maui, is a place of breathtaking beauty and profound historical significance. This verdant oasis, with its towering 'Iao Needle, is not only a natural wonder but also a sacred site, serving as the site of the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790, where King Kamehameha I clashed with Maui's army in his quest to unify the Hawaiian Islands, forever altering the course of the island's history. Its dense rainforests and meandering streams are steeped in legends, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural life of ancient Hawaii. The valley's serene beauty and rich heritage make it an essential destination for those seeking to connect with the island's past and the natural world.A walk through this verdant rainforest offers a moment of tranquility and a deep connection to Hawaii's royal past.

Included

• Round-trip transportation in air-conditioned comfort from major Maui hotels
• Admission to Haleakalā National Park and 'Iao Valley State Park
• Expert live narration throughout the tour
• Scenic drive up Haleakalā, showcasing climate and topographical changes
• Time to explore Makawao town's shops and galleries
• Light snacks at Kula Marketplace

Requirements

• Dress warmly for the Haleakalā summit, where temperatures can be very low.
• Not suitable for those with heart, respiratory, or serious motion sickness conditions due to high altitude and winding roads.
• Not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back problems.
• A 72-hour wait is advised after scuba diving before taking this tour.
• No refunds for visibility issues at Haleakalā due to weather.
• Ensure to re-confirm pick-up details 24 hours before the tour.