Is prior hiking experience required?

No, this tour is suitable for most fitness levels, provided you can walk several miles on uneven terrain.

How long is the tour?

The typical experience lasts around 4 to 6 hours, including visits to the forest, shop stops, and cultural sites.

Are meals or snacks included?

Not usually, but you are encouraged to bring water and light snacks for your comfort.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, children who can handle the walking distances are welcome, with shorter, tailored options available.

Bring comfortable shoes, rain gear if needed, water, sunscreen, and a camera for photos.

Pets are not allowed on this tour to preserve the environment and for guest safety.

Rainforest and Redwood's Tour by Switchbacks Hawaii in Wailuku

In the lush heart of Maui, Switchbacks Hawaii offers a one-of-a-kind journey through pristine rainforests and towering sequoia redwoods, an experience that bridges the island’s tropical beauty with the grandeur of ancient giants. This private tour takes guests on a scenic drive to Poli Poli State Park, where the air is thick with the scent of damp earth and exotic foliage. Walking beneath towering redwoods, some over 300 feet tall, visitors feel a sense of awe as sunlight filters through the canopy, illuminating ferns and orchids that cling to moss-covered trunks. The tour isn’t just about the trees; it incorporates Maui life, with visits to charming Makawao town for local artisan shops and insights into the island’s rich history, folklore, and native traditions. Led by expert guides who share compelling stories and environmental insights, this experience showcases Maui’s diverse ecosystems alongside its cultural tapestry—creating a balanced adventure for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

What makes this tour stand out is its exclusivity, allowing guests to immerse themselves without the crowds common to national parks. Switchbacks Hawaii’s luxury transportation ensures comfort, while the personalized approach means no two trips are alike. This journey highlights Maui’s rare combination of vibrant rainforests and legendary redwoods, offering a fresh perspective on Hawaii’s natural landscape beyond the coastal beaches. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler, this trip delivers a deep connection to the land’s history and its living, breathing environment. It’s a chance to witness the island’s ecological layers, from the lush greenery of Poli Poli to the ancient giants that once spanned the continent. By blending natural wonder with cultural depth, Switchbacks Hawaii creates an adventure that touches everyone’s sense of curiosity and respect for the environment.

About Switchbacks Hawaii

Switchbacks Hawaii delivers private guided tours across Maui, specializing in tailored Road to Hana itineraries and upland forest experiences. Operating luxury air-conditioned SUVs with complimentary round-trip pickup from resort lobbies, Switchbacks Hawaii focuses on comfort, local knowledge, and small-group attention. Guides are experienced storytellers who share island history, cultural legends, and ecological insight while leading guests to signature sites such as the Road to Hana waterfalls, black sand beaches in Hana town, ʻĪao Valley State Park, and Poli Poli State Park’s Sequoia redwood stands near Makawao.

Tour options range from condensed half‑day excursions to full-day 10–12 hour journeys, including specialized hikes across the West Maui Mountains and Upcountry forest walks. The Road to Hana experiences include stops for swimming in waterfalls, bamboo forests, and curated visits to local shops and viewpoints. Snacks and drinks are provided on select tours, with hosts trained to accommodate guest comfort and safety in rainforest conditions.

Safety, punctuality, and genuine cultural respect are cornerstones of the operation. Vehicles are maintained for luxury travel and guided routes prioritize scenic value and historical context. Switchbacks Hawaii partners with local communities to highlight indigenous stories and ecological stewardship, offering guests both adventure and meaningful interpretation.

Whether seeking a serene upland hike, a full-day Hana immersion, or a private redwood-and-upcountry discovery, Switchbacks Hawaii curates each itinerary to maximize time on island, minimize hassle, and leave visitors with lasting memories of Maui’s natural beauty. Bookings include flexible scheduling, knowledgeable guides, tailored stops for guests, and accessible options available upon request.