Big Island: 9-Line Waterfall Zipline Adventure & Rainforest Views

Summary

Soaring past waterfalls and tangled trees on big island zipline

You’ll fly above lush rainforest and real waterfalls on nine ziplines — some long enough to race your friends side by side. Guides share local stories while you catch glimpses of rainbows and Pacific views. All gear is included, so just bring your nerve (and closed-toe shoes). You might surprise yourself by wanting to go again before you even unclip.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d be nervous until I heard the zipline cable whirring above the Big Island rainforest. It’s louder than you expect — kind of like a zipper but way more intense. Our guide, Kaleo, grinned at us and said, “You’ll get used to it after the first line.” Not sure if he meant the sound or my jelly legs. Anyway, we geared up under these huge trees that smelled like wet earth and ginger, and I kept fiddling with my helmet strap because it felt weirdly tight. The group was a mix — families, one couple from Seattle who kept joking about rain (they’d fit right in here), and me just trying not to look down too soon.

The first line was short but still made my stomach drop. After that, though, something shifted — maybe it was the way the air felt colder as you zipped out over a waterfall or how everyone started cheering each other on. There are nine lines total; four of them are doubles so you can race someone (I lost every time). At one point, Kaleo pointed out a rainbow just hanging there over the river below us. He said they show up a lot after morning showers — I guess he’s seen hundreds, but he still stopped to look. That stuck with me for some reason.

The last line lands right back where you started at the visitor center. My hands were shaky from holding on so tight (and maybe adrenaline), but honestly? I didn’t want it to end yet. The whole thing took about two hours — maybe a little longer since someone in our group needed extra time with their harness (totally understandable). If you’re looking for a day trip zipline experience near Hilo or Kona that actually gets your heart going — and gives you those wild rainforest views you see in postcards — this is it. Just don’t forget closed-toe shoes; they really mean it about that part.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 9-line waterfall zipline adventure

• Drive to Visitor Center
• Check in at Visitor Center
• Attend group orientation
• Walk to gear-up area
• Meet guide and get safety briefing
• Put on zipline gear
• Load into vans
• Drive to top of property
• Final safety speech
• Zipline down 9-line course
• Finish at Visitor Center

Top questions

How long does the Big Island zipline tour take?

The guided course takes about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on group size and weather.

Is there an age or weight limit for this zipline experience?

Yes, participants must be at least 4 years old and weigh between 35 lbs and 275 lbs.

Are non-zipping guests allowed to join?

Yes, guests not zipping but accompanied by two or more paying zippers can access the garden and waterfalls for free.

What should I wear for the Big Island waterfall zipline?

Closed-toe shoes are required; comfortable clothing is recommended due to walking on uneven surfaces.

Does this day trip zipline experience include pickup?

No, guests drive themselves to the location for check-in at the visitor center.

Are guides provided during the tour?

Yes, professional guides lead the entire 9-line zipline course.

Is lunch included in this Big Island zipline adventure?

No meals are included; only equipment and entrance fees are covered.

Can pregnant women participate in this activity?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant women or people with back or neck problems.

What’s included

Your day includes all entrance fees, professional local guides throughout your 2-hour guided zipline adventure across nine lines (including four dual racing lines), plus all safety equipment provided when you arrive at the visitor center—just make sure to bring your own closed-toe shoes before heading out into the rainforest air.