Makana Maui Adventures offers private, immersive tours across Maui that go beyond the ordinary. Led by local guides with over a decade of experience, our custom adventures blend stunning natural landscapes, Hawaiian culture, native flora and fauna education, and deep respect for the land. Whether you're exploring waterfalls, exotic beaches, lava rock coasts, hiking lush trails, or want to enjoy local farms, food and spirits on your private tour, the experience is personalized, meaningful, and rooted in Aloha. We also specialize in intimate, off-the-beaten-path excursions designed for adventurous families, couples, and small groups seeking authenticity, connection, and sustainability. Come as a guest—leave with a deeper connection to Maui.
Frequently Asked Questions About Makana Maui Adventures
Why should we choose Makana Maui Adventures for our Maui tours?
At Makana Maui Adventures, we offer custom private tours, multi-day tours, and hiking adventures that allow you to explore the best of Maui in a way that suits your interests and pace. Our personalized services are designed to give you an intimate and unique experience, free from the crowds and rigid schedules of larger tour groups. With knowledgeable local guides who share insider tips and stories, you'll discover hidden gems and learn about the island's rich culture and natural beauty. Choose Makana Maui Adventures for a truly unforgettable adventure tailored just for you.
What do you provide on your private tours and hiking adventures ?
At Makana Maui Adventures, we are dedicated to ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience exploring the best of Maui. For each of our customized private tours and hiking adventures, every vehicle is equipped with a variety of amenities and essentials to cater to your needs. These include a cooler stocked with bottled water to keep you hydrated, extra towels for your convenience, and a large map to help you navigate the island's stunning landscapes. Safety is a priority, so we provide a first aid kit, as well as head lights, flashlights, and underwater lights for any low-light situations. Additionally, we supply umbrellas, trekking poles for hiking support, sanitation wipes, hand sanitizer, Dramamine for motion sickness, paper towels, and small trash bags to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. We also include other necessities to make your adventure as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Trust Makana Maui Adventures to provide you with a comprehensive, safe, and memorable experience on your journey through Hawaii's beautiful island of Maui.
Q: What should we bring on your private tours or hikes?
For your adventure with Makana Maui Adventures, we recommend bringing the following essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
1. Comfortable Footwear: Depending on your tour, you may be hiking or walking on uneven terrain, so sturdy, comfortable shoes or hiking boots are a must. All in one shoes for adventures and getting wet are a great option, such as Chaco, Teva, Keen, Vibram, OR reef shoes and sturdy tennis/hiking shoes. If you plan on swimming, best to wear bathing suit under your clothes. If staying at a hotel, bring hotel towels. You may want to bring back up sandals to change into at times.
2. Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Maui's weather can vary; dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal.
3. Sun protection: The Hawaiian sun can be intense. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and environmentally safe sunscreen (without Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, other harmful ingredients).
4. Adventure Gear: If you have specific gear like trekking poles or a small backpack, feel free to bring them. We provide some essential gear, but your comfort items are always welcome. By bringing these items, you'll be well-prepared to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences that Makana Maui Adventures has to offer.
Q: Does Makana Maui Adventures provide snacks or meals during tours?
Yes, Makana Maui Adventures offers snacks and beverages tailored to the type of tour you select. For our half-day hiking tours, we provide light snacks for energy and bottled water to keep you hydrated. On our Road to Hana tours, you can enjoy fresh local banana bread and bottled water, with additional local meals and snacks available for purchase at your discretion. For the Custom Valley Isle Tour, you'll have the opportunity to purchase local meals and snacks at various stops along the way. These provisions ensure you have the energy and nourishment needed to fully enjoy your adventure with us.
What commercial vehicles does Makana Maui Adventures use?
Luxury tours in a Honda Pilot EX-L SUV w/Moonroof & Auto Liftgate, and/or Honda Odysee EX Minivan w/Auto Sliding doors (Each have 3 rows for up to 7 passengers).
Is Makana Maui Adventures fully licensed to carry passengers?
Yes, we are. We have a Motor Carrier Certificate from the Public Utilities Commission (PUC #4953-C), and carry all required commercial auto and General Liability Insurances. This is important for safety reasons. We also have a permit with the Department of Land and Natural Resources for exploring that much more.
Do we tip the guide?
At Makana Maui Adventures, tips for our guides are not mandatory but are certainly appreciated. If you feel that your guide has gone above and beyond to make your custom private tour or hiking adventure memorable, a gratuity is a wonderful way to show your appreciation. A standard tipping range is typically 10-20% of the tour cost, reflecting the amount of personal service and attention to detail provided. Thank you for considering this gesture, and we hope you enjoy your adventure with us.
Do we need to sign a waiver before participating in your tours?
Yes, signing a Release of Liability Waiver is a standard procedure for all our private tour and hiking adventure participants at Makana Maui Adventures. Every member of your group, including minors, must have a waiver signed before embarking on the tour. Parents or guardians are required to sign on behalf of any minors. Ensuring the safety and well-being of our guests is our top priority, and this waiver is a crucial step in maintaining high safety standards. By signing the waiver, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with outdoor activities, allowing us to provide a secure and enjoyable experience exploring the best of Maui.
What types of tours does Makana Maui Adventures offer for exploring Maui?
Makana Maui Adventures offers custom private tours, multi-day tours, and hiking adventures tailored to your interests and pace, providing a unique and intimate experience with knowledgeable local guides.
What amenities are provided during Makana Maui Adventures' private tours and hikes?
Each private tour vehicle is equipped with essentials like bottled water, towels, maps, first aid kits, flashlights, umbrellas, trekking poles, sanitation supplies, and other necessities to ensure a safe and comfortable adventure.
What should I bring when joining a tour or hike with Makana Maui Adventures?
Recommended items include comfortable hiking footwear, weather-appropriate layered clothing, sun protection like hats and environmentally safe sunscreen, and any personal adventure gear; bathing suits are suggested if you plan to swim.
Are snacks and meals provided on Makana Maui Adventures tours?
Yes, snacks and beverages are offered depending on the tour type, such as light snacks and bottled water on hiking tours, banana bread on Road to Hana tours, and options to purchase local meals during custom tours.
What types of vehicles does Makana Maui Adventures use for tours?
They use luxury Honda Pilot EX-L SUVs with moonroofs and auto liftgates, and Honda Odyssey EX minivans with auto sliding doors, each seating up to 7 passengers comfortably.
Is Makana Maui Adventures fully licensed and insured for passenger tours?
Yes, they hold a Motor Carrier Certificate from the Public Utilities Commission, required commercial auto and liability insurance, and a permit from the Department of Land and Natural Resources for exploration.
Do I need to tip the guide on a Makana Maui Adventure tour?
Tipping is optional but appreciated; a typical range is 10-20% of the tour cost to acknowledge exceptional service and personalized attention from the guides.
Are waivers required before participating in tours with Makana Maui Adventures?
Yes, all participants must sign a Release of Liability Waiver before tours, including minors whose parents or guardians must sign on their behalf, to ensure safety and acknowledge risks.
How can the nearby Wailuku Heights Park enhance my visit to Makana Maui Adventures?
Wailuku Heights Park offers a relaxing outdoor space perfect for visitors to enjoy before or after their tour, providing a scenic spot to unwind and appreciate nature near Makana Maui Adventures' base.
Are there any nearby services like shipping or health centers near Makana Maui Adventures?
Yes, nearby places include the UPS Access Point location for shipping needs and Hawaii Health Group for health and pharmacy services, convenient for tourists before or after their Maui adventures.
Can I combine a tour with activities at nearby attractions such as Makani Olu Ranch?
Absolutely, after a private tour with Makana Maui Adventures, you might extend your day to enjoy horseback riding or other amusement activities at nearby Makani Olu Ranch, enriching your Maui experience.