Maui Day Trip Haleakala Iao Valley Old Lahaina from Oahu

Maui Day Trip Haleakala Iao Valley Old Lahaina from Oahu

Fly from Oahu to Maui for a full-day tour that explores the central part of the island, featuring spectacular Mt Haleakala and verdant Iao Valley State Park. Travel to the summit of the dormant Haleakala Volcano where you get expansive views of western Maui and the otherwordly landscape of Haleakala National Park. In the northwest, marvel at the impressive Iao Needle rock formation located in lush the lush rain forest of Iao Valley State Park. Round-trip flights, transportation with a professional driver-guide on Maui and park admissions are included.

Start your day with optional early morning pickup in Oahu to arrive at the airport for your 45-minute flight to Maui. Your guide meets you upon landing in Maui and transfers you to your comfortable air-conditioned coach to start your adventure on the island, the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands.

Visit the top highlight of Maui, the majestic Haleakala Crater. As your coach climbs the long winding road that ascends 10,000 feet in just 37 miles (60 km), soak in stunning views of the west side of Maui and the Pacific Ocean. Arriving at the Visitor's Center of Mt Haleakala, marvel at the dormant volcano’s enormous crater, which measures 3,000 feet (915 meters) deep, 2.5 miles (4 km) wide, 7.5 miles (12 km) long and 22 miles (35 km) in circumference. Although the volcano last erupted in 1790, the land surrounding the lava flow still appears barren. Keep a jacket handy for the cooler temperatures at the summit.

In contrast to the stark volcanic terrain of Mt Haleakala, the Iao Valley boasts lush emerald rain forest interspersed with waterfalls, swimming holes and jagged mountain landscapes. Enjoy about an hour at Iao Needle, a rock pinnacle that stands 2,250 feet (686 m) above sea level. Take a stroll along an easy trail that gives you great views of the Iao Needle and the park's breathtaking scenery.

In addition to the natural highlights of the island, stop in the town of Wailuku, located near the Iao Valley. Have time to explore the quaint town and see the historic Ka’ahamanu Church, named in honor of Hawaiian monarch Queen Ka’ahamanu.

Your knowledgeable guide shares stories about Maui’s sights and history throughout your day, along with plenty of stops for photo ops and a lunch stop (own expense) around mid-day. At the end of about an eight hour tour on Maui, your guide takes you to the airport for your return flight to Oahu.