FAQ
There are lots of questions we receive about our ziplining tours. Here are some common questions and answers we have provided you to increase your understanding of these exciting activities. If your question isn't answered here please feel free to contact us by email or phone so we can help you further.
What is zip lining?
Zip lining is an exhilarating way to see the beauty of the Umauma River from a truly unique aerial perspective. Originally developed to allow biologists to observe the natural world high in the formerly inaccessible treetops, zip lines are steel wire cables that extend between tree trunks or cliff faces. Participants are securely strapped into a harness, which is utilized to slide down one of these cables at an angle of descent that allows riders to reach speeds upwards of thirty miles per hour. The longest cables at The Umauma Experience extend to more than Twenty Two Hundred feet.
How long does the zipline tour take?
Our Zipline tours generally last somewhere between One -and-a-half hours to Three Hours. The tour length varies for each tour. Combination adventures can of course last longer. Instruction and travel time can add some additional time for each tour.
What time should we arrive to the zipline?
Guests should arrive 45 minutes prior to their tour time. If you have a 10:00am zipline tour you need to arrive at 9:15am for check in.
What are your COVID protocols?
No COVID restrictions currently.
Is it safe?
We put every effort into your experience to make it as safe as possible. Our extensively trained safety experts ensure that all participants are properly outfitted with the latest safety gear, including helmets and harnesses. Our top-of-the-line equipment is meticulously inspected and maintained. Our first-aid-certified guides have hundreds of hours of safety training under their belt.
Are instructions provided?
Our professional English-fluent guides instruct guests in all proper safety procedures and provide tips for effectively gliding down the zip line.
Can anyone go on zip lines?
Most everyone will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime thrills of ziplining, but some weight, minimum 35 pounds maximum 275, age minimum 4 years old, do apply – remember to inquire about these restrictions when booking your reservation. People who have a history of a neck or back injury, or women who are pregnant may not participate. Ages 4-12 must be accompanied by a guardian, 13-17 the guardian must be present on property. All tours are conducted by our trained guides.
Can anyone go ATV-ing?
Everyone can enjoy our ATV adventure but there are some restrictions. Minimum age of 4 years old.
- No history of neck or back injury. Cannot be pregnant. Must wear closed toe shoes, pants and shirt.
- Passengers 4-11 years old must ride with parent/guardian in SXS. Passenger in Guide driven Ride-Along must be 12 years old and up with parent/guardian on tour.
- Max weight for drivers: 350 lbs. Max weight for back seat passengers: 250 lbs.
- ATV Drivers must be 16 and over with parental permission and accompanied by parents or guardian on tour.
- SXS Drivers must be 18 and over.
- All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and present it at check-in.
- Permits are not drivers.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe footwear, such as sneakers of hiking boots should be worn. Be sure to tie back long hair. Glasses should be secured with a strap. Make sure you remove any sharp objects from your pockets.
Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes. Our tour runs rain or shine. We have rain shelters at each platform for the comfort of each guest.
Is there a cancellation policy?
We have a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason be sure to call and notify us 24-hours before your scheduled tour. You will then be issued a full refund. If you call within the 24-hours we can possibly reschedule you, but no refund will be issued.
What's your availability? How far in advance do we need to book a reservation?
Space on our tours is based on availability. During our busy seasons, we recommend making a reservation at least a week in advance. Our website will show you an updated calendar of what tours we have available and the time slots. During our slower season, depending on when you want to join us, 48 hours in advance is perfectly fine. Keep in mind, we do have a strict 24-hour cancellation policy to cancel and receive a full refund.
What's the difference between the morning tours vs. the afternoon tours? Which is better?
It all depends on your preference. Both the morning tours and the afternoon tours are equally great! You will be doing the same course no matter the time you choose. Each of our tours have a 45-minute prior check-in time, so if you are on the west side (Kona/Waikoloa), it will take about 1hr 45 minutes to 2 hours to get to our location. Coming from the East (Hilo) side of the island will take at least 30 minutes. So, when planning your experience and choosing a tour time, be sure to factor in the drive time as well.
Can we do both the Zipline and ATV Tours on the same day?
Of course! Each of our tours are 2 to 2.5 hours long. We have a 9:30 am ATV tour that finishes at 11:30am, giving you the opportunity to jump on our 1 pm Zipline Tour. If you would like to start the morning off ziplining, you can reserve our 10 am Zipline Tour ending at about 12 pm or 12:30 pm, then end the day on our 1 pm ATV Tour. Either way, you can enjoy a fun-filled family day with us.
Is there any exception to the weight limit? Why is there a weight limit?
Safety is our #1 priority, for both our guides and all our guests. To ensure a safe but fun experience we have our weight limits of 35 pounds to 275 pounds, no more or no less.
How long is the ATV Tour? How long is the Zipline Tour? How long is the Zip & Dip Tour?
Our ATV tours are 1.5 hours. Our 9 Line Zipline tours are 2 to 2.5 hours, the 4 Line Zipline tour is 1.5 to 2 hours. The Zip & Dip combo tour is 3.5 to 4 hours. (10am - 12pm Zipline/ 12:30pm - 2:30pm Dip)
Can we pick and choose what lines we want to do?
No.
Do you provide transportation? (From Hilo or Kona)
Unfortunately, not currently. Transportation is in the works, and we hope we can get something going soon.
Is the ATV Tour guided? Why can't my (unlicensed) 16-year-old drive? Why can't my (licensed) 16-year-old pack us (family members) in a side-by-side?
Yes, all our tours are guided. There are two guides on the ATV Tour: one will lead the tour and set the pace for the adventure; the second guide will be at the end of the fleet, making sure everyone stays on course and is having a good time. Our insurance requires all our drivers to have a valid driver's license. Being that a 16-year-old is not legally an adult yet, we cannot have a minor pack any other members in our vehicles, but they are more than welcome to drive their own ATV (if they have a valid license).
Do you have any discounts (non-military personal /non-residents)?
Ask us about current offers or discounts at the time of booking.
How old does my child need to be to participate on the tour without me (a parent)? Can my child ride tandem with a parent?
Children 13 years and older can go on the Zipline tour on their own, if a parent or guardian remains on the property until that tour is complete. If a child gets nervous or scared and wants to ride with an adult, they have the option to ride tandem with one of our trained tour guides.
Are we allowed to use your WiFi?
Yes, we have free WiFi available for our guests.
Find out more. Check out ABOUT US, BOOK A TOUR, and our VISITOR CENTER, MAPS, DIRECTIONS AND MORE!
