Escape the chill of winter and join us to experience the wild side of Hawaii! See rare endemic birds and plants. Learn about Hawaii’s evolution, ecology, geology, and pressing conservation issues. Along the way, we’ll take time to relax on sunny beaches and go snorkeling to visit the world beneath the waves.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1

Aloha and welcome to the Big Island of Hawaii! We'll gather the group and get settled in at our hotel.

Day 2

Birding in the area around the town of Kona.

Day 3

Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to witness the power of geological forces.

Day 4

A full day of exploring the native habitats and endemic birds of amazing Hakalau Forest refuge.

Day 5

A relaxing day in the the town of Hilo. Options include snorkeling, museums, and the farmers market.

Day 6

Birding in highland sites across the Big Island on our return to Kona.

Day 7

An exciting pelagic birding trip this morning, then fly to Kauai in the afternoon.

Day 8

Visiting Waimea Canyon on Kauai. Enjoying Poipu beach in the afternoon.

Day 9

Birding at the famous Kilauea Lighthouse.

Day 10

A relaxing day around Hanalei Bay.

Day 11

Departures.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $1,600

START DATE: Dec 8, 2022

DURATION: 11 days

GROUP SIZE: Up to 12

TRIP FOCUS: Natural History

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Guiding services
• Double-occupancy lodging
• Ground and water transportation
• Breakfasts and lunches
• Excursions and park fees

YOUR GUIDES

Ivan Phillipsen, Co-owner of Wild Latitudes, is a passionate naturalist with a background in scientific research. He holds an M.S. in biology and a Ph.D. in zoology. Natural history is Ivan’s true passion and what he is most excited to teach to others. Although he is fascinated by just about every aspect of nature, Ivan is particularly fond of birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, plants, and geology. Everything is interconnected in nature and Ivan takes a holistic approach when teaching about the natural world.

Steve Backus is an avid birder and naturalist with a background in the maritime industry hailing from North Carolina. An infinitely curious person by nature, he is drawn to explore the life around him and the environments they occupy. As a mariner, waterbirds are of particular interest to Steve and his time as a ship’s naturalist, a captain of wildlife cruises, a point counter at migration hot-spots, and many other employments and community science efforts has deepened his appreciation of birds.