Discover famous natural and cultural landmarks in this magical adventure through Maui
This tour is an exploration of some of Maui’s famous natural and cultural landmarks. There’s a lot to see and as you travel along, the landscape will constantly engage you. You’ll experience rainforests and waterfalls in the cooler, wetter regions, and volcanic areas and dramatic foliage in Maui’s drier places. There are also breathtaking ocean views along portions of the route.
A long, ascending road will take you through horse farms and towering eucalyptus groves until you reach Haleakala National Park. You’ll visit the spectacular volcanic crater, Mt. Haleakala, which in Hawaiian means “House of the Rising Sun”. At an altitude of 10,023 feet you’ll literally be above the clouds. You’ll even be able to see Mauna Loa volcano on the neighboring Big Island. (Climbing to this altitude is generally not recommended for people with heart conditions or those prone to altitude sickness. A 24-hour wait period is also recommended for anyone that has recently been scuba diving).
Iao Needle, a massive, tree-covered lava formation, is another notable sight. The Ioa Valley, where this landmark is located, is both beautiful and historically significant. This is where King Kamehameha I defeated Maui’s army. You’ll discover how this late 18th-century battle dramatically altered Hawaiian history.
Visits to Makawao and Wailuku Towns, with their plantation-style architecture, and Lahaina Town, a 19th-century whaling village, will show you a bit of Maui’s local side. Lahaina has converted and repurposed many of its original buildings. Now it’s known for its popular restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, which we’ll make sure you have plenty of time to explore when you stop there for lunch.