|
Maui Valley And Crater Tour
Tour ID: MPAT-31
Location: Maui, Central Maui
Duration: 8 Hours
Departs from: major hotels on Maui
Maui can be separated into three distinct parts: Haleakala, Central Maui, and the Iao Valley. The Haleakala volcano takes up more than 75% of Maui; however, all three districts have their own unique characteristics that should not be overlooked.
Haleakala, like all the other Hawiian volcanoes, is a shield volcano. This means that it is created by lightweight lava that spreads over a wider area of surface land to create a shield-like shape. The Haleakala is an active volcano with a 7 mile wide depression area at the summit. Only barren lava formations called lava cones inhabit this summit. This depression was once thought to be the location where demigod Maui was caught and forced the sun to slow it's progression across the sky. The Haleakala has not erupted since the 1600's, but it is still considered active.
When you first arrive on the island, you will most likely find yourself in Maui's commercial center located in Central Maui, this is called Kahului. Known as ''Dream City,'' Kahului was the first planned city of the islands and was designed for mainly affordable homes. This city is very residential and industrial, so visitors may want to make their way to the Central Maui city of Wailuku. Here is where most of the downtown shopping and food places are located. Also, travelers might want to check out the Pacific Whale Foundation or Aqua Adventures. To get a great feel for the history of Maui and Hawaii itself, stop by the Bailey House Museum in Wailuku. The Bailey House is built on the same site as the home of the last ruling chief of Maui. The Bailey House also displays examples of 19th Century Hawaiian culture, artwork, and furniture. Most guides suggest not spending more than a day or so in Central Maui, and Wailuku provides an excellent gateway to Iao Valley.
The Iao Valley provides a perfect relief from the bleak volcanic landscapes and the complex city life with its breath-taking natural beauty. The most stunning sight at the Iao Valley State Park is the Iao Needle. This 1200 ft high tower of lava has been completely overgrown with lush vegetation. This valley was the sight of one of the fiercest battle in Hawaii's history. In 1790, two warring factions fought until littering bodies blocked the water from going into the valley. This site was named Kepaniwai, or ''damming of the waters.''
Pick up Information
Hotel pick up is provided from major Maui hotels, except Hana. Enter the name of your hotel at time of reservation. Phone our Maui office at 808- 877-4242, 24 hours prior to tour to re-confirm your pick up time and place. We are not permitted to pick up in residential areas or at B&B's.
Highlights
Travel through Upcountry Maui Kula District
Visit Haleakala National Park (admission included)
See unique plants and rare birds such as the Nene goose
Capture the vista from Pu`u Ula`ula Overlook
Haleakala Visitor Center
View the town of Wailuku
Ka`ahumanu Church
Iao Valley State Park and `Iao Needle
Departure Time and Return
Departs from:
Kapalua - Napili area: 7:00am - 7:10am
Kahana area: 7:05am - 7:15am
Honokowai area: 7:05am - 7:15am
Kaanapali area: 7:15am - 7:25am
Lahaina area: 7:25am - 8:00am
Maalaea area 7:45am - 8:00am
Makena area: 7:05am - 7:15am
Wailea 7:15-7:25am
Returns approximately 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Child Age: 3-11 Yrs
|
