Your guide will take you to a protected Dryland “forest” to learn about the unique ecosystem. Take a guided walk and view many plants that are found only in Hawaii and see the area where they are being brought back to health. The hawaiian leeward dryland “forest” is not like other places that you will visit in Hawaii, it will surprise you with how the Dryland “forest” used to look and how we are bringing it back to health with the Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative. We have access to the privately owned Dryland “forest” to explore a part of the island that few are able to see.
The extreme rarity of many endemic plants in Hawaii can be attributed to the historic alteration of this natural habitat and competition from invasive weeds and animals. To protect the remaining ecosystems, conservation plans have been implemented to establish new populations, and conserve genetic material eg, in seed banks and botanical gardens.
When we walk into the enclosure, we are greeted by the beautiful wiliwili tree that has an estimated age of 300 to 400 years old. This endemic tree is part of Hawaiian culture and legends. Learn about its history and where it can be found in the Hawaiian islands. Their wood is extremely light and was eg, used to build surfboards and outriggers.
The uhiuhi tree (Caesalpinia kavaiensis) is listed as federally endangered and all of the trees in the reserve are closely monitored and seedlings are grown to improve the trees’ chances. You may be one of the lucky few to see these trees in blossom. Their wood is very dense and heavy and was used for many purposes in ancient Hawaii.
Make this visit the one where you leave the beautiful island of Hawaii knowing that you contributed to protect the natural landscapes of the island. Your legacy tree could see into the future hundreds of years. We are excited to take guests to a place that very few have the privilege to see.
Duration:
2 – 3 hours
Time hiking: approx. 30 minutes
Only 200 seedlings available! Take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity!
Includes:
- Seedling tag (wiliwili tree or uhiuhi tree) bearing your personalized message
- Transportation and pickup from Waikoloa Hotels
- Bottled water and snacks