Experience a Cloud Forest on Hawaii’s Big Island – Rated #1 by Trip Advisor

On the Big Island of Hawai’i, in the heart of an area known as Kaloko-Mauka, is the only Cloud Forest in the U.S.A. Many ask, “what is the difference between a cloud forest and rain forest?” A cloud forest is generally a cool tropical/subtropical, evergreen, montane, or moist environment. Sometimes called the fog forest in a higher elevation between 3,000 to 8,000 feet and characterized by cloud cover, usually at the canopy level and only found in tropical areas with tall mountains. It feels like you are in a humid cloud. Very few cloud forests exist in the world today.

We had the pleasure of taking a tour with the #1 rated guided walking tour by Trip Advisor: Kona Cloud Forest Guided Walking Tours on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Through this non-profit organization, the guide shares his knowledge about the cloud forest through his guided walking tour. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about teaching all about the beautiful and breathtaking cloud forest.

We met our tour guide at the foot of the forest, where he gave a warm greeting and passed out bamboo walking sticks to help along the way that have been gathered directly from the forest itself. My first impression was unforgettable; the forest was lush and full of life. The cool breeze, fresh air, and bright sunshine only enhanced the scenery.

During the tour we experienced a wide variety of exotic trees, plants, flowers, and wildlife. We enjoyed the many knowledgeable answers to our questions and stories from the past that he so kindly shared. Cloud forests often exhibit an abundance of mosses covering the ground and vegetation, in which case they are also referred to as mossy forests. Mossy forests usually develop on mountains where moisture is introduced by settling clouds.

Overall, this is definitely a tour we would love to repeat. Book your next adventure to see this sanctuary: Kona Cloud Forest Guided Walking Tours, call 808-640-3888.

More Information

If you are looking for a private estate within a unique cloud forest contact in Kaloko-Mauka, please contact Carrie Nicholson, R(B), BIC, Director of Hawaii Life One – Big Island, (808) 896-9749 or Carrie@HawaiiLife.com.