4 Tips on Hiking Sustainably in Kauaʻi
The beautifully biodiverse island of Kauaʻi is the oldest island on the 8 major islands belonging to the Hawaiian archipelago. It’s home to many endemic plant and animal species that have had thousands of years to flourish into distinct species found no where else on earth.
Some of the most popular destinations on Kauaʻi can be reached by trekking on foot, such as the Nouʻnou Mountain, nicknamed “Sleeping Giant”, and along the rim of Waimea Canyon. At Kauaʻi Hiking Tours, our goal is to help you explore the island’s diverse landscapes and take in scenic views while respecting the fragile balance of nature found on Kauaʻi.
Your guide will help you have a deeper understanding of Kauaʻi and how you can hike sustainably during your visit. Check out some of these tips to help you prepare for your sustainable hiking trip with us!
Choose Sustainably Minded Tour Companies
To get the most out of your trip, booking a hiking tour with a guide can help you navigate some of the best spots on the island. Our experienced guides will be able to tell you all about the trails you’ll be hiking and give you a better understanding of the natural landscapes.
Although tourism is an important industry to the economy of Kauaʻi, preserving the island’s natural landscapes is equally important. Booking with a hiking company that supports sustainable tourism helps maintain the wonderful fauna and flora that thrives on the island.
Sustainable tourism is defined as tourism that considers economic, social, and environmental impacts. This means that it supports the protection of a location’s environment and cultural heritage, which positively impacts the local communities and businesses and preserves wildlife and natural resources.
Kauaʻi Hiking Tours acknowledges and supports the principles of sustainable tourism set forth by the Hawaii Ecotourism Association. We’re committed to sustainable tourism practices that protect the natural and cultural resources of Kaua’i. We’re certified as a Sustainable Tour Operator through the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawai’i.
Dispose of Waste Properly
One of the most important things you can do to hike sustainably is to dispose of your waste properly and leave no trace behind. Bringing a reusable water bottle can help limit your use of plastic and contribute to less waste.
Leaving litter and waste behind can be harmful to wildlife and plants. Many items take more than 10 years to fully decompose. Even fruit peels can take a couple of years to decompose. For easy disposal of your trash, you can pack a bag with you to keep your trash in for the duration of the hike.
When disposed of improperly, food waste can attract animals outside their home range. It can also cause animals to get sick, or become dependent, if they eat something they’re not supposed to. Leaving no trace behind also helps others enjoy the beauty of connecting with unspoiled nature during their hike.
Respect the Fauna and Flora
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Hiking the trails of Kaua’i is a great opportunity to do bird watching! There are more than 80 bird species on the island, many of which are native to Kauaʻi. Depending on the hike you take, you’ll have the opportunity to wander on a trail surrounded by lush vegetation, towering trees and/or native plant and bird species.
You might hear or spot some birds along your journey. It’s important to remember that you’re entering the habitats of many different types of animals and insects when hiking. Respecting nature and all it has to offer is key to enjoying a sustainable hike.
Unique plants and rocks can be appreciated but shouldn’t be removed from the environment. They add to the experience and could also be an important part of some species’ habitat or food source. Taking photographs is a great way to remember your experiences and encounters with nature while still preserving the wildlife and their habitats.
Don’t Go Off the Beaten Path and Respect Other Hikers
Our guides will help you navigate along the trails in Kauaʻi. Staying on the trails is important to reduce any environmental harm. Practicing trail etiquette is important for sustainable hiking. Venturing off trail can cause plants to be damaged. It can also lead to the spread of invasive species or ROD (Rapid Ohia Death)
Understanding trail etiquette can help you be more respectful of the environment and others on the trail. Stepping aside to let oncoming hikers pass through is not only curtesy but helps reduce trail degradation. Make sure to step off the trail so others can pass if you’re taking a break or traveling more slowly than those behind you. Avoid loud talking or playing of music so others can enjoy the sounds of nature.
Malama pono a mālama ia Hawaiʻi
