Discover Maui: A Journey Through Sips, Sites & Bites
The Ultimate Maui Experience
Embark on a relaxed yet enriching tour of Maui, where you’ll encounter the island’s top natural wonders, historic sites, and quaint rural towns. Haleakala, Maui’s stunning dormant volcano, is awe-inspiring, especially under the radiant sunlight that highlights its steep slopes. This is the perfect time to observe the unique wildlife that calls the island home, including the rare Nene goose and the elusive Silversword plant.
As you journey down from the Haleakala Visitor Center Overlook, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Kula and the Upcountry region. Stop for a delightful lunch at the Hali’imaile General Store, where you can savor the rich flavors of Maui’s culinary offerings. Afterward, enjoy a tour of the Hali’imaile Distillery, where you can explore the distilling process. (Note: Guests under 21 must wait outside during tastings, and a valid photo ID is required.)
Continue the journey with a scenic walk through a forest of native Hawaiian plants, ending at the majestic Iao Needle—a towering 1,200-foot rock formation that stands proudly over Iao Valley. This valley is not only a stunning natural landmark but also holds deep historical significance as the final resting place of Hawaiian royalty.
Tour Highlights:
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Haleakala National Park: Home to more than 1,000 species of plants, this park is a must-see. The 38-mile drive up the dormant volcano offers an up-close look at the rare Silversword plant, native only to this area, along with stunning views and sacred sites.
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Haleakala’s History: Formed by layers of lava flow over 1 million years ago, Haleakala has long been a sacred site for Polynesian settlers, dating back to 400-650 A.D.
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Visitor Center: At an elevation of 9,740 feet, the Haleakala Visitor Center is a historical stone structure dating back to 1936, offering unparalleled views of the island below.
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Changing Climates: As you ascend through varying elevations, take in the shifting landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for the rare Nene Goose, a symbol of Maui’s natural beauty.
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Kula’s Agriculture: As you approach the open country slopes of Kula, you’ll pass fields and farms where early Portuguese and Chinese immigrant workers once labored, offering a glimpse into Maui’s agricultural past.
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Iao Valley’s Rich Legacy: This verdant rainforest, once an ancient battleground, now serves as a burial site for Hawaii’s royal family. The iconic Iao Needle, enveloped in lush greenery, towers over the valley below.
Important Details:
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Dress for the Cold: Be sure to wear warm clothing, as the temperature at Haleakala’s summit can drop to as low as 20°F.
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Minibus Comfort: Travel in style and comfort in well-equipped minivans that ensure a smooth ride throughout your adventure.
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Health Considerations: This tour involves high altitudes, making it unsuitable for guests with heart or respiratory issues. Pregnant women and those with motion sickness are also advised to refrain from participating.
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Scuba Diving Reminder: If you’ve been scuba diving, please wait at least 72 hours before joining the tour to ensure your safety.
Departure & Return Location
Pick-up is available from major Maui hotels. Please provide your hotel details when booking. Call our reservations team at 808-833-3000, 24 hours before your tour, to confirm your pick-up time and location. We are unable to pick up guests from residential areas or B&Bs.
What’s Included:
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Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
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Admission to Haleakala National Park
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Admission to Iao Valley State Park
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Lunch at the Hali’imaile General Store
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Tour of the Hali’imaile Distillery (21+ with photo ID required)
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Expert live narration throughout the tour
What’s Not Included:
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Gratuities
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Personal expenses
Itinerary Overview:
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Haleakala National Park: Visit the summit and see the rare Silversword plant in its natural habitat.
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Iao Valley: Take a walk through the lush rainforest and witness the towering Iao Needle.
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Lunch at Hali’imaile General Store: Enjoy a delicious meal featuring Maui’s freshest flavors.
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Hali’imaile Distillery Tour: Experience the distilling process (21+ only with ID).
Highlights:
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Scenic 38-mile ascent up Haleakala, with stunning views of the island.
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Explore Iao Valley and marvel at the iconic Iao Needle.
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Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Hali’imaile General Store.
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Discover the distilling process on a guided tour of the Hali’imaile Distillery.
Experience Maui’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and unique culture on this unforgettable tour.