Maui has a lot of rain forest dispersed across the island, but the rainy northern sections of the West Maui Mountains and Mount Haleakala have the most. These areas usually get enough consistent precipitation to keep hundreds of streams flowing even during the dry months. The terrain is incredibly steep. When the water gushes down the mountain it forms some of the worlds highest, most notable waterfalls (up to 400 feet tall).
The tropical rain forest in Maui’s steep mountain slopes and valleys engulfs nearly 6000 vertical feet of Haleakala (from sea-level to the tree-line). Similar to other pristine rain forests scattered across the world, Maui’s tropical paradise has many plant and animal zones layered one on top of another beneath a thick tropical canopy which protects these treasures from the elements.
Things become more lush, (and usually considerably wetter) by the mile so don’t forget to pack:
Larger trees, like the Koa, help make up the canopy and provide shelter from inclement weather to the many smaller flora such as ferns, shrubs and other smaller trees growing closer to the ground. Over the last few hundred years many non-native species, (invasive plants and weeds), have been introduced into the Hawaiian ecosystem. There are some non-native plants that are popping up on a small scale. Foreign flora like eucalyptus, guava, coffee, bamboo and ginger have flourished in Maui’s rich soil and tropical environment, forcing some of Hawaii’s ancient native species out while providing new food sources and even building materials in return.
Remember, VIE’s expert guides are there to give you their take on Maui. While on our tour don’t be shy, feel free to ask questions! Our knowledgeable drivers will know the answer, or they’ll make the effort to find out. It’s our daily mission to show VIE’s guests the true meaning of “Maui No Ka ‘Oi” (Maui is the best) while cruising through tropical paradise in style -on the Road to Hana and beyond.
