How Long Is A Rappelling Tour?
The Natures Embrace rappelling tour lasts a total of approximately 3 hours, not including the time it takes to drive to the activity site from your accommodations. You’ll receive information about what to wear and bring with you to the tour, as well as directions to the activity site after making your reservation. (Please note we do not meet guests at our offices in Honolulu.) The activity site is approximately 30 min from Hilo, 2 hours from Kona. Please arrive at the activity site at least 15 minutes prior to your tour time.
You’ll want to wear something that protects your skin from the harness and the elements, so we recommend longer swim trunks, board shorts or light-weight pants, leggings or yoga pants and a quick-drying shirt, rash guard or tank top.
While you can wear a two-piece bathing suit under clothing, wearing a swimsuit alone usually leads to discomfort from the harness, the terrain, or the dreaded wardrobe malfunction. Wear something that can get muddy, dirty or snagged.
You can bring a wetsuit top, especially in the winter, or if you’re sensitive to chilly water.
Bring a towel and a dry set of clothes to change into at the end of the trip, so that you can continue on with your journey in comfort. Leave all jewelry (including wedding rings) at your accommodations, as you won’t be able to wear it on the tour. Items lost in the pond during the tour are usually not retrievable.
A pair of water shoes with closed toe is recommended. These can be found locally and are an inexpensive way to protect your feet while adventuring.
Whatever you wear may get muddy or covered in dirt, so wear something inexpensive and/or washable.
Rain or shine, we go. There is at least a little rain in the rainforest every day. When very rainy weather causes water levels to rise too high to safely use the waterfalls, we use stations that are a safe distance from the water course. High water days are very thrilling, as the roaring waterfalls make for a spectacular sight. We operate in a protected valley away from the ocean; unlike most other outdoor tours, it’s very rare for us to cancel due to weather.
Bring a towel and a change of clothes to change into after the rappelling tour. You can bring a camera, with the understanding that the rugged and wet nature of the tour can damage fragile devices. You also won’t be able to hold a camera while rappelling. If you lose a device in one of the pools, it’s usually not possible to retrieve it. We do provide all your necessary gear. We also provide snacks and plenty of bottled water. The tour is not suitable for people who rely on certain medical or assistance devices or medications. Please ask a reservation agent for details.
No, but we will provide you with a pack that’s intended for use during the tour. You have the option of placing a dry keg in your backpack, for keeping small items dry.
Please keep them to a minimum, as items may become damaged, lost or interfere with equipment. Small items will usually fit in the waterproof kegs and sealable bag we provide. Please note that it’s possible for kegs to leak or break, and items that fall into the pools may not be retrievable.
Yes, rappelling is often the perfect activity for families with active kids and teens. Children 10 or older who weigh at least 70 lbs. may participate in the “Natures Embrace” Rappel tour when accompanied by an adult over the age of 25.
If a member of your party who’s under the age of 18 is not accompanied by his/her parent, we send a participation form for an e-signature before tour time to the child’s parent. We’re not able to accept a signature of a relative, family friend, or adult sibling in lieu of a parent’s signature.
Your waist must measure between 22″ and 48″. You must weigh a minimum of 70 lbs. and a maximum of 250 lbs. for the “Natures Embrace” Rappel Tour. We weigh each participant (in private) at check-in before the tour.
All participants must be able to walk and hike without any kind of assistance, and understand spoken English well without assistance or interpretation/translation, as well as speak it fluently.
Your safety is our top priority, and so this activity may not be suitable for some people due to a medical or physical condition or for people who use some medical devices or equipment. It’s not suitable during pregnancy. It’s not suitable for those with hip, neck or back issues, for those with a heart condition, or for those who take blood thinners. Please call us to learn more about participating.
Your guides will provide you with plenty of bottled water.
All tours get individually wrapped and fresh snacks provided. It’s a good idea to eat a hearty breakfast or lunch before joining the tour.
Private tours have the option of adding a catered picnic lunch to the reservation. Ask about pricing on adding food to your private tour.
Yes, there are two toilets on-site.
Yes; however, mosquitoes don’t land well in breezy or foggy conditions, and they don’t usually come out into sunny areas. We have repellent wipes, but you probably won’t need them. Wearing a long-sleeved shirt will protect you from most bites. Please do not use spray or DEET repellent, as it damages the helmets, harnesses and gear.
You will get some sun exposure, especially during the late summer months. Use reef-safe sunscreen to keep chemicals out of the water. Be prepared to be in the sun for at least an hour. You may wear a baseball cap or visor under your helmet to protect your face and keep the sun out of your eyes. A long-sleeved rash guard is usually adequate protection for your arms and torso.
If you cancel 48 hours or more prior to the date of the event, you will receive a full refund less a 10% cancellation fee. If you cancel within 48 hours, you will recieve no refund. If Waterfall Chasers cancels, you will receive a full refund.
We don’t issue a refund if a participant doesn’t meet the age or weight restrictions at check-in, so please make sure to weigh yourself at least 48 hours before your tour date. You can find the full cancellation policy at the reservation booking page; it’s also emailed to guests upon making a reservation.
“Chasing Cascades” – Beginner Tour – $200 per person:
“Adventurer’s Ascent” – Intermediate Tour – $250 per person:
“Extreme Expeditions” – Extreme Tour – $300 per person:
Rappelling Waterfalls:
Canyoneering:
At Waterfall Chasers LLC, we prioritize providing personalized and immersive experiences for our guests. To ensure that you receive the utmost attention and have the opportunity to connect with nature and fellow adventurers, we limit our tour group sizes to a maximum of 8 participants.
Our meeting spot for your Waterfall Chasers adventure is a special part of the experience. Here’s how it works:
Meeting Point: After booking your tour with us, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions on where to meet your guides. However, please note that our meeting point is not at our office address in Honolulu; it’s at a location closer to the adventure site.
Driving Your Own Car: We encourage participants to drive their own vehicles to the meeting spot. This not only allows you the flexibility to travel at your own pace but also adds to the sense of adventure.
Secret Location: The exact location of your adventure, nestled in the heart of Hawaii’s natural beauty, is a secret that we’ll reveal to you upon booking. It’s all part of the anticipation and excitement of your journey with Waterfall Chasers.
Appropriate Footwear: Wear sturdy and comfortable closed-toe shoes with good grip, suitable for hiking and walking on uneven terrain.
Comfortable Clothing: Dress in lightweight, moisture-wicking layers that are suitable for the day’s weather conditions. Be prepared for possible changes in temperature.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
Swimwear: Bring swimwear if you plan to take a dip in natural pools or waterfalls during the tour.
Towel: A compact, quick-drying towel can be handy for drying off after water activities.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the adventure. Bring a refillable water bottle to reduce waste.
Snacks: Pack light, energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or fresh fruit to keep your energy up during the tour.
Small Backpack: A small, lightweight backpack can be useful for carrying your essentials and snacks.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning scenery and moments during your adventure. Ensure your device is protected from water if necessary.
Personal Medications: If you have any personal medications or medical necessities, be sure to bring them along.
Cash: It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for personal expenses or any unforeseen circumstances.
Sense of Adventure: Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure, curiosity, and a readiness to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty!
We understand that adventure tours can be thrilling and sometimes challenging, and it’s natural to have concerns. Here’s what you can expect if you find yourself feeling too scared during a tour with Waterfall Chasers:
1. Experienced Guides: Our guides are highly trained professionals with years of experience in leading adventure tours. They are skilled at assessing the comfort levels of participants and will provide guidance and reassurance throughout the tour.
2. Open Communication: We encourage open and honest communication with our guides. If you feel uncomfortable or scared at any point during the tour, please don’t hesitate to let your guide know. They are there to assist you and make the experience enjoyable.
3. Options for Participants: Depending on the situation and your comfort level, our guides may offer alternative options. This could include bypassing certain elements of the tour that you find too challenging or providing additional support and guidance.
4. Group Support: Many participants find that the camaraderie of the group and the encouragement of fellow adventurers can help alleviate fear and anxiety. You’ll likely be surrounded by supportive individuals who understand your concerns.
5. Safety Is Priority: Your safety is our top priority. If, at any time, your safety is at risk or if you decide that the adventure is not for you, our guides will take the necessary steps to ensure you are safely escorted back to the meeting point or your vehicle.
Remember, it’s okay to have fears or reservations, and there’s no pressure to push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Our goal is to provide an enjoyable and safe adventure for all participants. We’re here to support you and ensure you have a memorable experience, whether you choose to overcome your fears or opt for a more comfortable adventure.
Safety is our highest priority at Waterfall Chasers LLC. We take extensive measures to ensure the safety of our guests during our adventure tours. Here are some key points that highlight our commitment to safety:
Experienced Guides: Our guides are highly experienced and trained professionals with a deep understanding of the outdoor environments we explore. They are experts in their respective fields and are skilled at leading tours safely.
Safety Gear: We provide all necessary safety equipment, including helmets, harnesses, and ropes, for activities like rappelling and canyoneering. Our equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.
Safety Briefings: Before each tour, our guides conduct comprehensive safety briefings to ensure that participants understand the equipment, techniques, and safety procedures.
First Aid and Training: Our guides are trained in CPR, First Aid, swiftwater rescue techniques, and wilderness first responder training. They are prepared to respond to medical emergencies and ensure the well-being of participants.
Small Group Size: We limit the size of our tour groups to a maximum of 8 participants, allowing for more personalized attention and safer group dynamics.
Risk Assessments: Our guides perform thorough risk assessments of the tour locations and monitor changing environmental conditions to make informed decisions about tour activities.
Participant Communication: We encourage open communication between participants and guides. If you have any concerns or discomfort during the tour, please let your guide know so that appropriate measures can be taken.
Flexible Options: We offer tours of varying difficulty levels, allowing participants to choose adventures that match their comfort and experience levels.
Community Safety: We practice Hawaiian principles of aloha and leave no trace, ensuring that we minimize our impact on the environment and contribute to its preservation.
While adventure activities inherently involve some level of risk, our commitment to safety and our experienced guides help mitigate these risks and provide a secure environment for participants. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities, and we take every precaution to make your adventure with Waterfall Chasers both thrilling and safe.
You don’t necessarily need to be a highly trained athlete to participate in Waterfall Chasers tours, but your level of physical fitness and comfort with outdoor activities may impact your choice of tour. Here’s a general guideline:
Beginner Tour: The beginner tour is designed for participants of various fitness levels, including those who may not have extensive outdoor experience. While a basic level of physical fitness is helpful, it’s not required to complete this tour. It’s a great choice for individuals looking to try waterfall rappelling and canyoneering for the first time.
Intermediate Tour: The intermediate tour involves a bit more physical activity and may include longer hikes and more challenging canyoneering elements. While you don’t need to be an athlete, having a moderate level of fitness and comfort with outdoor activities will enhance your experience.
Extreme Tour: The extreme tour is tailored for participants with prior outdoor adventure experience and a higher level of fitness. It may involve more strenuous activities, longer hikes, and more advanced rappelling and canyoneering challenges. Being in good physical condition is recommended for this tour.
It’s essential to choose a tour that aligns with your fitness level and comfort zone. Regardless of the tour you select, our experienced guides are there to provide support, guidance, and encouragement to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. If you have specific fitness concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Waterfall Chasers for personalized guidance and recommendations.
Ultimately, your first-time rappelling experience with Waterfall Chasers is designed to be safe, enjoyable, and accessible to beginners. Our experienced guides are here to make sure you have a fantastic time and create lasting memories. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance throughout the tour, and remember that everyone starts somewhere – your adventure awaits!
You must weigh between 70 and 250 lbs to participate. All participants must measure between 22 and 48 inches around the waist. The minimum age is 10. You must be in good general health and have no neck or back issues. You must be able to hike/walk for 1/2 to 1 mile on uneven, loose, or slippery terrain unassisted.
The activity (including the observer/hiking option) is not appropriate for people with some medical or physical conditions or for pregnant women. You must also be able to speak and understand spoken English well, and without an interpreter or translator. This is not a safe activity for those using some medical devices or medications, for those with neck, back, or hip injuries, or for those with a heart condition. Please call to ask if your condition precludes your participation.
Yes, it’s common practice to tip guides in the adventure tourism industry as a way to show appreciation for their expertise, assistance, and the memorable experiences they provide. Tipping is a way to recognize the hard work and dedication of your guides and is greatly appreciated. Here are some tips on tipping guides:
Guidelines: The recommended tip amount can vary depending on the length of the tour, the level of service provided, and the number of guides. Typically, tips range from 10% to 20% of the tour cost.
Quality of Service: Consider the quality of service you received. If your guides went above and beyond to ensure your safety, enjoyment, and overall experience, a higher tip may be appropriate.
Group Size: If you’re in a smaller group with fewer participants, guides often receive more individual attention, which might warrant a slightly higher tip.
Splitting Tips: In some cases, the tip is split among the guides. If you’re unsure, you can ask the lead guide about the tipping policy.
Cash is Preferred: Guides typically prefer tips in cash, so it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you on the tour.
Expressing Gratitude: Along with the tip, a sincere “thank you” and a few words of gratitude for their guidance and expertise can go a long way in showing your appreciation.
Remember that tipping is entirely voluntary, and the amount you choose to tip should reflect your satisfaction with the service. If you had an exceptional experience with your guides at Waterfall Chasers, a tip is a meaningful way to acknowledge their efforts in making your adventure memorable.
