Kamakou Preserve

Kamakou Preserve, Molokai

Located high in the mountains of East Molokai, the Kamakou Preserve is a 2,774-acre (11.2 sq. km) hidden sanctuary that shelters a rich rainforest of over 250 species of Hawaiian flowers, of which at least 219 can be found nowhere else in the world. If you want to take your time appreciating the beauty of the preserve, sign up for one of the monthly hikes that the staff of the National Conservancy in Hawaii offer*. Consider it your roundtrip ticket to an intimate date with nature.

Once you get to the preserve, you can take a 3-mile (4.8 km) boardwalk through the conservation and the Pepeopae Bog. It's a relatively easy hike, but the preserve is not an easy place to reach. One needs a four-wheel drive vehicle to get here and it is recommended to come with an experienced guide.

Visitors who have been to the Kamakou Preserve have said that one of the highlights of the trail is hearing the Kawawahie and the Olomao sing. These are two Hawaiian birds that are considered endangered species, but can still be observed in the Kamakou rainforest. Other native animals that live here include the Pueo (a Hawaiian owl), the 'Apapane and the 'Amakihi.

Before visiting this beautiful rainforest, you can also visit the Waikolu Valley and the Sandalwood Pit, as they are just along the way to the Kamakou Preserve. The ancient Hawaiians called this forest wao akua, which means “the realm of the gods.” Walking through this nature preserve, it is easy to see why.

*For more information on visiting this preserve, contact the Molokai field office at (808) 553-5236 or e-mail hike_molokai@tnc.org.

Key Features

Limited-access preserve: The Nature Conservancy identifies Kamakou Preserve as limited access

Nearly 2,774 acres: GoHawaii describes the preserve as nearly 2,774 acres

East Molokai rainforest: Protects rare upland forest and watershed habitat

Pepeopae Bog trail: Best-known route through the preserve

Boardwalk route: Narrow boardwalk protects wet bog habitat and fragile plants

Rare native plants: GoHawaii notes more than 250 rare Hawaiian plants

Native birds: Forest habitat supports native Hawaiian bird species

Wao akua: Upland forest setting traditionally known as the realm of the gods

Guided hikes: NPS notes TNC guided conservation hikes are generally March-October

Self-hike access: NPS says self-hikers should visit the TNC office for access information

Four-wheel-drive road: Rough Molokai Forest Reserve road requires careful planning

Weather caution: Rain, mud, fog and limited maintenance can make access difficult

Plan Your Visit

Plan Kamakou Preserve as a limited-access conservation visit, not a casual roadside hike. Confirm current access with The Nature Conservancy before going. Guided conservation hikes are generally offered seasonally, and self-hikers should obtain current access information first. Use a suitable four-wheel-drive vehicle, check weather and road conditions, and stay on the boardwalk to protect fragile bog habitat.

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Location, Parking and Directions

Kamakou Preserve is located high in the East Molokai Mountains, reached by rough Molokai Forest Reserve roads from the Kaunakakai area. The map point is kept at the current page coordinates for the preserve area. Visitors should confirm access with The Nature Conservancy, use a proper four-wheel-drive vehicle and avoid the road during poor weather or muddy conditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kamakou Preserve located?

Kamakou Preserve is located high in the East Molokai Mountains, reached by rough Molokai Forest Reserve roads from the Kaunakakai area.

Is Kamakou Preserve open to everyone?

The Nature Conservancy identifies Kamakou Preserve as limited access. Visitors should confirm current access requirements before going.

What is the Pepeopae Bog trail?

The Pepeopae Bog trail is the preserve's best-known boardwalk route through wet native forest, bog habitat and rare Hawaiian plants.

Do visitors need four-wheel drive?

Yes. Access involves rough mountain roads, and a suitable four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended. Rain and mud can make the road unsafe.

Are guided hikes available?

NPS notes that The Nature Conservancy guided conservation hikes for Kamakou and Moomomi are generally offered from March through October, but visitors should confirm current availability.