Kipu Zipline Safari – Kayak, Hike & Zipline with Outfitters Kauai

If you’re looking to pack a full day of outdoor adventure into your Kauai trip, the Kipu Zipline Safari offered by Outfitters Kauai might just be your best bet. This well-reviewed, six-and-a-half-hour excursion combines the best of what Kauai has to offer: ocean kayaking, scenic hikes, and adrenaline-pumping ziplining. It’s a solid choice for those craving a mix of nature, activity, and a touch of movie magic (lots of scenes from Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark).

What immediately stands out about this tour is its diverse itinerary—nothing feels repetitive here. You’ll paddle down a river, trek through lush landscapes, and soar above the jungle canopy. Two things we love: First, the expert guides who blend safety with storytelling, making each part educational and fun. Second, the incredible scenery—waterfalls, swimming holes, and mountain views that are truly memorable. A possible consideration? This is a physically active tour—so if you have mobility issues or prefer a slow-paced day, it may not be ideal.

This experience is best suited for travelers who don’t mind a little physical activity, love nature, and want a comprehensive adventure that captures Kauai’s wild spirit. Families with kiddos aged 7 and up, as well as active couples and solo explorers, will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Balanced adventure: Combines kayaking, hiking, and ziplining for a full spectrum of outdoor fun
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance safety and storytelling
• Spectacular scenery: Waterfalls, swimming holes, and mountain vistas offer excellent photo opportunities
• Family friendly: Suitable for kids 7+, with tours capped at 12 guests for personal attention
• Value for money: Includes lunch, snacks, water, all necessary gear, and local taxes—no hidden costs
• Physical activity: Requires walking and kayaking, so a moderate fitness level is recommended

An In-Depth Look at the Kauai Adventure

Starting Point and Logistics
The tour kicks off at Outfitters Kauai’s kayak shack in Lihue, a straightforward meeting point. No hotel pickup is included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport—something to keep in mind if you’re staying farther afield. The tour is offered in English and limited to around 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized. You’ll connect with your guides, who are praised frequently for their friendliness and knowledge.

The Kayaking Segment
The adventure begins with a deluxe two-person kayak paddle on the Hule’ia River, covering about two miles. This part’s relaxed enough for most, but it does demand some upper body effort and comfort on the water. Reviewers note that outfitter provides dry bags and extra water bottles, making it easy to keep gear safe and stay hydrated. We also recommend bringing a waterproof phone lanyard—trust us, you’ll want to snap photos of waterfalls and wildlife along the way.

Waterfalls and Swimming Holes
Disembarking along waterfalls in natural pools is a highlight. The opportunity to swim or just relax in these serene spots adds a refreshing break to the trip. One reviewer mentioned that the guides are very attentive, taking care of everyone, even first-timers. Be prepared to get your feet wet and possibly muddy—this is part of the adventure.

Scenic Ride & Hike
Next, you’ll hop onto an open-air safari truck for a scenic ride across Kipu Ranch. This area has a cinematic pedigree—used as the backdrop for scenes in Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark. The ride offers sweeping views of the Nawiliwili Valley, making it an enjoyable way to rest your legs before the next activity. Afterwards, a short hike takes you to the Bamboo Pool and Water Zip, offering a glimpse into Kauai’s lush interior. The trail is exclusive and well-maintained, with some reviewers noting the trail can be muddy but manageable with proper footwear.

The Zipline Thrills
The most adrenaline-fueled part of the tour is the ziplining. You’ll fly across a series of jungle zips with Hupu Mountains as a dramatic backdrop. One standout is the 1,800-foot tandem zipline, which lasts about 90 seconds—an exhilarating experience for first-timers and seasoned thrill-seekers alike. The guides are praised for their professionalism and humor, making sure everyone feels safe and confident.

What You Need to Know About Ziplining
Participants must weigh between 60 and 275 pounds and be at least 7 years old. The tour ensures safety through well-maintained equipment and experienced instructors. Some reviews mention that the preparation process can feel lengthy, but it’s all about safety and making sure everyone’s harnessed correctly.

Return to Base & Relaxation
After ziplining, you’ll cross a suspension bridge back to the base, then hop into a Hawaiian canoe for a gentle river ride back. This final stretch is a calm, scenic way to wind down the busy day while reflecting on the varied experiences.

Food and Refreshments
A picnic lunch, included in the tour price, is a welcome treat after all the activity. Expect a turkey sandwich, baby carrots, and a cookie—simple but satisfying. The guides also provide cold spring water and juices, helping everyone stay refreshed. Reviewers highlight the picnic spot with its stunning views, making the meal feel like part of the adventure.

Practical Tips
Bring swimwear, footwear with good grip that can get wet, and sunscreen. Insect repellant is a must, especially on the hikes. You might find a waterproof camera handy to capture the action. The entire day is built for active participation, so a moderate fitness level is suggested—be ready to walk, paddle, and climb.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. One said, “Our guides Theo and Cannon were friendly and knowledgeable,” highlighting the importance of good leadership for a safe, enjoyable trip. Others mention the scenery—describing it as “incredible” or “gorgeous,” with waterfalls and mountain views that are unforgettable. Several note that despite some delays or muddy conditions, the experience was worth it, quoting, “It was raining when we went and very muddy—but that just added to the adventure.”

It’s clear that this tour appeals to a wide range of visitors—from families with young kids to solo travelers and couples—mostly because of the balance of excitement and scenery. The capped group size also ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Value of the Experience

At roughly $274 per person, this tour packs in a lot: kayaking, hiking, scenic rides, ziplining, and a picnic lunch. With reviews praising the guides’ expertise and the stunning landscapes, many agree that the experience offers good value compared to individual activity costs. It’s not just about ticking activities off a list but about creating lasting memories in Kauai’s spectacular environment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who want variety—if you’re tired of just lounging on the beach and crave physical activity, this tour delivers. It’s especially appealing for families with children over 7, couples looking for a memorable day, or solo explorers eager to meet like-minded adventurers. If you value guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and safety-conscious, you’ll appreciate the professionalism here. However, those looking for a very relaxed, low-effort day might find this a bit intense.

Final Thoughts

The Kipu Zipline Safari offers an engaging way to experience Kauai’s wilderness in a single day. The combination of kayaking, hiking, scenery, and ziplining means you’ll encounter diverse landscapes, wildlife, and adrenaline rushes—all within a well-organized package. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise shine through, making even the muddy or windy moments enjoyable.

This tour’s real strength is its authentic, active approach to exploring Kauai’s interior. The price reflects the all-inclusive nature—gear, lunch, and guide services—making it a hassle-free experience that’s worth the cost. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants an adventurous, fun, and scenic day that captures the island’s wild beauty.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Outfitters Kauai.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, footwear that can get wet and has good traction (like aqua socks or Teva sandals), sunscreen, insect repellant, a towel, and a waterproof camera for photos.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be at least 7 years old to zipline. The maximum weight limit is 275 pounds, and the minimum is 60 pounds.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires walking about 2 miles and kayaking for roughly 60-90 minutes, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the kayak, gear, lunch, snacks, beverages, local taxes, and fees. Hotel transport is not included.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply eager to explore Kauai’s lush interior, the Kipu Zipline Safari delivers an engaging mix of adventure and scenery. With friendly guides, stunning views, and a well-rounded itinerary, it’s a rewarding way to spend a day on this beautiful Hawaiian island.