Can we customize the tour?
Yes! All of our tours include suggested areas and itineraries. If you have something in mind that you do not see or wish to modify the bullet points listed, then please contact us. We are happy to assist!
Journey deep into a sunken volcanic caldera
Marvel at the famed 2,250 foot tall ‘Iao Needle
Enrich yourself at the Cultural Heritage Gardens
Explore the Bailey House Museum
Observe the Haleki’i Pihana Heiau – a sacrificial temple
Conclude the day in historic Wailuku Town
5-Hour Iao Valley Excursion From Kahului
GuestPrice Per Person - Two Person Minimum | $189.00 |
InfantsChildren 2 and Under Ride Free | FREE |
Take a journey through Maui’s vibrant green valleys and explore its unique history, culture, and geography! On this tour, you will experience a glimpse of untouched beauty- thanks to the caring protection from The Nature Conservancy and the State Natural Area Partnership. Our journey takes us along ʻĪao River’s lush slopes dotted with kukui nut trees – symbols of enlightenment, peace, and protection in Hawaii. It’s awe-inspiring 8861 acres are looked after by Maui Land & Pineapple Company so you can soak up this vibrant green paradise!
Visit the luakani heiau (sacrificial temple) with stunning views of the ʻĪao Stream, Kahului Bay, Wailuku Plain and Paukukalo Hawaiian Homestead. Then travel deep into Halemahina volcano where you’ll find tropical flowers amongst her sunken caldera and spot ‘Iao Needle – an impressive 1,200ft stone pillar used as watchtower in times of war. Next refresh yourself at Maui’s largest stream before finishing your day surrounded by traditional homes, gardens, and totems in Kepaniwai cultural heritage garden. Uncover what makes The Valley Isle so special!
Any request for a refund 72 hours or more prior to the start of the tour or activity is honored with a full refund.
No refunds are issued for any cancellations inside the 72-hour period, prior to the start of your tour. There is no refund for no-shows. There is no charge for date change or tour change based on tour availability outside of the 72-hour cancellation period.
Come explore the incredible history and beautiful views at this special spot in Maui! Our tour takes us to a luakini heiau, or sacrificial temple. From there we can gaze out over Kahului Bay, Wailuku Plain and Paukukalo Hawaiian Homestead while learning how two temples were said to have been built overnight using rocks from nearby beaches – an impressive feat indeed! As we journey through these ancient sites it’s believed that is was here where human sacrifices took place centuries ago as part of honoring royalty – all adding up for an unforgettable experience connecting you with Hawaii’s culture and mythology.
We will lead the way down to ‘Iao Valley, a deep valley made by streams that eroded away rocks formed from a volcanic eruption 320,000 years ago. The walls are covered in lush rainforest and receive an abundance of 386 inches of rainfall pouring into ʻĪao Stream each year – overflowing with tropical flowers and delicious guava fruit as far as your eyes can see.
As we continue our journey along this beautiful river, explore it further with time for swimming or wading in its healing waters before reaching one final destination – the iconic 1,200 foot basalt tower known colloquially as ‘The Needle’!
Our journey ends at the majestic cultural heritage gardens, showcasing beautiful scale models of traditional homes, totems, and native Hawaiian plants! Here you’ll find a reflection of diverse cultures – from American missionaries to Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, and Filipino immigrants. These restored gardens have recently been expanded to include taro patches and examples of Hawaiian farming techniques. Once finished here explore the nearby Hawaiian Nature Center to see the museum and children’s education about Hawaii conservation and specific local flora and fauna!