Haleakala, Maui Tour from Oahu (Haleakala Crater Volcano Included)

Tour ID: ORBH-08
Duration: 12 Hours
Location: Haleakala, Maui
Departs from: major hotels in the Waikiki area

This tour includes a breathtaking exploration of the scenic splendor of Haleakala, Iao Valley and Lahaina.  Experiencing Haleakala National Park, home to Haleakala Crater, Maui's highest peak, can mean experiencing many of the world's climates and expanses from its desert regions to wilderness, rain forests and tropical coast lands.

Haleakala Crater is an active 10,000-foot volcano that currently lies sleepily on eastern Maui's expanse but can be seen from anywhere on the island. Haleakal' is Hawaiian for ''house of the sun'' and it is here, according to local legend, that the god Maui, snared the sun, forcing it to slow its journey across the skies. And so visitors and locals pay homage to that legend by rising early to watch the sun rise from the crater's peak.

In 1980, the park was designated an International Biosphere Reserve and continues its efforts to preserve the fragile ecosystems and species that call it home.

You will find that there is nothing compared to the lovely Iao Valley popular among visitors for its dense rain forests, peaceful beauty and outstanding vistas. Your tour will feature a view of it's most notable landmark, the 'Iao Needle rock formation, a 2,250-foot stone pillar standing proudly amid the swirling waters within the core of the Pu'u Kukui Crater. This rock was once used as a natural altar to the god 'Iao for whom it was named. The valley's average rainfall can reach 386 inches per year. It is here that the rulers of Maui are traditionally laid to rest and Kapawa, king of Hawaii, is buried.

At the entrance to Iao Valley, lies the town of Wailuku which for hundreds of years was home to ancient priests and warriors and now remains a sleepy tourist destination that still manages to exude the charm of a genuine Hawaiian village. A highlight of your tour is a visit to Ka'ahumanu Church built in 1876, and it is named in honor of Queen Ka'ahumanu who was influential in establishing Christianity on the islands. The church still features services in the native Hawaiian tongue on Sundays.

Another stop along your tour is the historic whaling village of Lahaina, once called Lele or ''relentless sun'' for its sunny climate. Today the village boasts more than 40 art galleries and an impressive choice of restaurants. Most notable though, is the massive Banyan tree, the largest in the US, over 60 feet high and 200 feet across, larger than an average city block. The tree is over a century old and has become a major landmark of the town. Lahaina was once the capital of Hawaii and still preserves its rich history, which can be appreciated by following its historic trail throughout the town and viewing the beautiful sunsets for which Maui is renowned.

Tour Details & Booking Information:

Time: 5:00 am : Wake-up call.
6:00 am : Pick up for tour.
6:00 am-6:00 pm : Hawaii Grand Circle Island Tour.
7:30 pm : Approximate return time.

Lunch: Bring money for lunch on the tour.

Child Age: 2-11 Yrs

Note: All passengers must present government issued, photo ID for airline check-in. A sweater and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Children under 2 are free. Children 2 years old are required to pay for the airfare and ride in the lap of an adult in the vehicle.