Why You Should Visit
Located high in the mountains of East Moloka‘i, Kamakou Preserve is a magnificent natural treasure and a rainforest like no other. More than 200 species of native plants are woven together in a rich biological tapestry, providing habitat for native song birds, insects and colorful banded tree snails. A boardwalk takes visitors through a moss-covered rain forest and pristine mountain bog before arriving at a spectacular overlook of Pelekunu Valley.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
TNC staff and volunteers lead a monthly hike along a narrow boardwalk through Kamakou Preserve. Long pants and covered shoes with adequate traction are recommended for boardwalk hikers. For more information on visiting this preserve, contact the Moloka‘i field office at (808) 553-5236 or e-mail hike_molokai@tnc.org.
What to See: Plants
The preserve is home to a wide variety of native plants, including:
- The ‘alani, which is in the same family as common citrus fruits;
- The hapu‘u, or Hawaiian tree fern;
- The ‘ōhi‘a lehua, the signature tree of Hawai‘i’s forests with its brilliant red, yellow or orange blossoms.
What to See: Animals
The last known sightings of the extremely rare Moloka‘i thrush (oloma‘o) and Moloka‘i creeper (kakawahie) were in this forest region, and the vivid green ‘amakihi can still be seen. The abundant ‘apapane sips nectar from the brilliant blossoms of the ‘ōhi‘a, while the Hawaiian owl (pueo) soars overhead on a forest hunt.
