This tour starts and ends in Waikiki and travels through the lush forests of the Makiki Valley before visiting Honolulu’s bustling downtown.

Here are some of the popular spots you can explore on the tour! 

• Lyon Arboretum 
• Chinese Cemetery 
• Manoa Marketplace 
• Tantalus Mountain 
• Tantalus Lookout 
• Tantalus Arboretum Trail
• National Memorial of the Pacific 
• Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden
• Foster Botanical Garden
• Shimazu Shave Ice 
• Chinatown 

For help planning your day check out our Honolulu Backyard Rainforest Tour suggested itinerary and here's everything you need to know before you go!

Here’s our packing list for this tour. It may seem a little long, but remember, what you bring depends on the activities you choose to do for the day. 

• Sneakers 
• Hiking Clothes 
• Water Bottle 
• Bug Spray (rainforest = mosquitoes) 
• Towel 
• Bathing Suit 
• Sandals 
• Sunscreen 
• Sun Glasses and/or Hat 
• Snacks 
• Cash 
• Car Charger *Very Important*
• Phone Mount 

Yes! Feel free to join the tour along the route. If you don’t begin at one of the tour starting points you’ll miss a few stories, but you’ll still have a great experience.

No, this tour can only be done counterclockwise, beginning and ending in Waikiki. 

Shaka Guide isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s like having a tour guide in your car, sharing stories and local insights as you drive. Unlike other navigation apps, we’ve planned the route for you, so instead of focusing on directions, you can focus on the experience. This means you can’t customize the route, but that’s kind of the point. You’re still in control though, you can skip stops, go at your own pace, and explore freely. It’s not just about getting there; it’s about enjoying the journey.

Still have questions? Send us an email at aloha@shakaguide.com or give us a call at (808) 201-8138.