Five Tips for Choosing Hawaii Zipline Tours

Apr 19, 2013

With more and more Hawaii zipline tours making a play for visitors, selecting the right firm can be challenging. Active clients who are eager to glide over waterfalls and sail through tropical forests want to make sure the experience lives up to their expectations.

For guidance we turned to Danny Boren, co-founder of Hawaii-based Skyline Eco-Adventures, operator of the first zipline course in the U.S. Currently, Skyline operates two Maui zipline tours located at Kaanapali and Haleakala in addition to the Akaka Falls Skyline Adventure on Hawaii Island. It will open a fourth Hawaii location — the Poipu Skyline Adventure on Kauai — in May.

“Safety and experience should always be your top priorities when ziplining,” said Boren. “After that, pick the course that fits your scenic desires — such as waterfalls, forest canopies, tropical valleys or ocean views — and work with a team that provides you with the personal attention that makes your experience unique.”

Boren went on to share the following five specific steps to the perfect flight plan.

Look For Experience

Travelers should inquire about the course, company and guides. The course should follow industry standards such as those published by the Association for Challenge Course Technology and the American Society for Material and Testing. The company should have the longevity, experience and equipment to operate safely, and each guide should have at least 40 hours of training, which is the industry standard.

Dress Appropriately

From head to toe, comfort and functionality are important during ziplining. Closed-toe shoes are a must for traction and security. Shorts and a comfortable shirt in light colors -— that clients don’t mind getting a little dirty — make for the best photo opportunities, providing contrast against darker backgrounds.

Time It Right

Morning ziplining typically offers a relaxed and tranquil setting with excellent photo opportunities in the soft sunlight. Afternoon tours offer the convenience of a post-lunch activity, allowing plenty of time to find the meeting place and get oriented.

Make It Personal

A zipline tour can provide a great opportunity for travelers who are celebrating a special occasion like an engagement, wedding or celebration of a lifetime goal. Working with zipline guides in advance can result in a distinctive, safe and memorable experience.

Capture the Moment

In order to relive their adventure once they are back on solid ground, participants should pack a camera with a long strap that can be fastened securely to their body. If they want their hands free, they can rent a camera to strap to their helmet.