I wont lie... I was a little nervous about riding an animal down the side of a pali... but it was one of the most amazing experiences evvvaaahhh! I was matched up with Hau'oli (which means "happy" in hawaiian) & he was the leader of the pack. The staff walked us through what to expect and we were on our way. Those mules knew exactly what they were doing--it was pretty amazing actually. The gate was opened by the worlds cutest little cowboy and these mules knew where to go and in which order. The views are stunning from the top and on your way down. Since I had never been on a horse before, I had to figure out how to relax and let the animal take charge- which he did really well. They are really smart and know the routine. I kept having to slow Hau'oli down because he had a one track mind: get to the bottom: food. The staff was really great and answered all of my questions. After this experience, I have MAD respect for mules! They carried me and my gear 3 miles down -and- 3 miles UP! Amazing! Such a Hawaii bucket list thing to do!! read more

So worth it! This might have been the highlight of an already awesome trip! It was a bit scary at first ..... but as the others have indicted incredible, incredible, unforgettable views..... Wonderful tour too. Absolutely recommend this to anyone who visits Molokai! read more

Molokai Mule Ride - Mama Loo on Molokai mule ride! - Tours Near Me - Kualapuu, Hawaii

First, if you ever have the opportunity to go to Kalaupapa, do it! The story is tragic but the setting and the spirit of the place is awe-inspiring. There's no place like it on earth and it's not to be missed. That said, do not use muleride.com as your tour company. We booked with this company and were assigned a guide named Keahi he or "Ahi" for short. We were very disappointed with his ability to explain the story and were frustrated with his off-the-wall, irrelevant tangents. When he started talking about 9 foot tall blonde Hawaiians found in a cave and something about Atlantis, I tuned out. He drove us in an old bus that didn't have air-conditioning. This would have been fine if we hadn't run into large trees and bushes that broke off into our seating area as he drove. Plus, we couldn't hear the guide because all of the windows and the front door was open as he drove. Our friends who booked through another company rode in a new van with A/C and the driver used a headset microphone so they could hear him as they drove. The National Historic Site has well-placed interpretive signs throughout the settlement. However we did not stop along the way to read them. In fact, we had to ask him to stop at one so we could read about and understand the significance of the story. We learned more from the few signs we did read than from our guide. At several stops he did not leave the van. Instead he just pointed us in a direction and left us to figure things out on our own. At the site of Mother Marianne's grave, we asked if we could walk over to see a few other monuments. While wandering we met Sister Barbara Jean, one of two resident nuns at Kalaupapa. She told us wonderful stories about the people of Kalaupapa and we all agreed that she was the best part of the day. Our guide told us we were lucky and that time with her was not part of our tour. Yet, the other two are a group had time set aside to spend with her and we were told that it is a regular part of their program. When one of our group members needed to return to the airport to catch an early flight, our guide dropped us all off and left us. This time could've been used for more exploring. Also, we were told we couldn't be on our own in Kalaupapa, that a guide was necessary. Yep, we were left alone for an hour and a half when he deserted us. Kalaupapa deserves a 5+ rating but the experience we had with this guide and muleride.com was beyond disappointing. read more

We were excited to do this trip but as of 4/1/2022 the folks at the airport told us that it has been closed for 2 years!!!! Sad to hear that- hopefully another time!!!! read more

Most Unique, Amazing and heart thumping activities I have ever done in my life. A fantastic and safe adventure. Lots of history and reflection to be found. RIDE down was scary and fun..Ride back up was easy. Did this 20 years ago. And ready to do again at 65. Jumping out of a perfectly good airplane is stupid, the Molakai Mule Ride is a Thrill and educational experience of a lifetime. read more

There are TWO tour companies that provide this tour - I do not recommend Kekaula Tours (booked on www.muleride.com). I sent this email to the company and got no response: We recently had a tour of Kalaupapa with the guide Keahi. I would like to know how long he has been leading tours, if you are aware of the controversial things he says, and whether these views represent the views of your company. I do not consider myself an overly sensitive person, but some of the following comments he made I found disturbing. For example: He referred to patients with Hansen's Disease as "lepers" during the entire tour, saying it "just works" even if it is a word that many find offensive. He compared it to the n-word (he said the whole N-word) which is "just a word, but people find it offensive because of history". He said that some of the lepers were "horribly deformed" and if we saw them coming on the street we would turn and run. He also compared patients with Hansen's disease to zombies from the walking dead. He said that the smell of their "open sores" and "rotting human flesh" was the most disgusting smell, even worse than rotting animal carcasses. He said Hawaiians were slaves of the Tahitians for 900 years, and in comparison to their slavery, "the Blacks had it easy". He said this twice. He said that Hawaiians should be grateful to the US for taking over the islands, should "have gratitude not attitude" and should "stop whining and just get over it". In addition to these really shocking and hurtful comments, he also presented a lot of fantasy as it if were true history, for example: believes that Atlantis is real, and that Europeans fled Atlantis before it sank believes that Earth used to have 5 dimensions, until it shrank to three dimensions, and that unicorns and dragons were real in the 5 dimensions the Hawaiian islands were part of a larger lost continent hence why there are sea cliffs that there were a race of really tall people he called "Avatars" that previously lived here that he himself has genetic ancient knowledge in his DNA; he knows he is descended from American Indians and has knowledge that even the rest of Hawaiians don't remember Aside from all of that, he didn't seem to know much about leprosy (he said it was "like Influenza"), so a lot of the people on the tour were confused and asking whether it was contagious or what happened to Father Damien. He had very little time to talk about the actual colony and its history because he spent so much time talking about himself and his own spirituality / mythicism. If we could have, we would have walked out on his tour. I came expecting to learn more about the colony and to feel respect for the suffering that took place there, and instead I was shocked and angered by the things I heard. I am most upset that other people may believe what he says and continue to spread misunderstanding and disrespect. read more

We had a wonderful experience taking the ride down to Kalaupapa settlement. There were definitely some breath-holding moments on some of the switchbacks! I had to trust them when they said that the mules know what they are doing and just let them do it. I did and it was fine. We saw deer and Pygmy goats along the way as well as beautiful views. Audrey was an excellent mule skinner and trail guide. The day after I am stiff and a bit sore in a few places, but I am so darned pleased with us for doing the ride! The guided tour of the Kalaupapa settlement was well done and informative. I learned a lot and am looking forward to reading more about Father Damien and Sister Marianne. read more

Kind of a mixed bag. The facts: - it's kinda expensive; $62 to hike, $190 for a mule ride; $300 to fly, all plus $7 for lunch - steep trail, but certainly hikable. I'm 53 and did it in 90 min. Each way. Sore the day after, though. Different muscles each way, a good workout. The good: - beautiful views - rare sights - interesting portion of our recent history where folks were treated awfully - our tour guide (Buzzy Sproat) had a lot of relevant, first-hand history, and his wife makes a delicious ham sandwich. Two stars for Buzzy alone, one for the rest of the tour. The bad: - complete misunderstanding of what customer service means. Very little information delivered up front (except they sure know how to work the credit card machine without fail), and the tour is s-l-o-w. I understand quaint, and relaxing, and all that, but honestly, I think they were just trying to fill time to make it worth the $$. - the town is a ramshackle affair; everything is rotted and half falling down. There are twisted remains of a building that burned down years ago, so either restore the site, or clean up the junk! In summary- I'd do it again, but I'd check my expectations at the top of the hill. read more

Fantastic experience! This is one of those bucket list type adventures that you must do at least one time in your life. The tour guides are friendly, warm, experienced, eager and knowledgable. If you are uneasy about riding a horse or traveling along steep heights, this is a challenge to take, but well worth it in the end. The opportunity to see the highest cliffs in the world and visit a place with so much history, dating back to 1833 is such a wonderful sight to see. Once down the mountain you will also enjoy a 3 hour tour of Kalaupapa and Kalawao. These places are so remote you either hike, ride the mule of fly in. Its so amazing to see, smell and be in such history and learn the true stories. Expect an experience you will never forget! Plus the tour guides and staff make you feel extremely special and loved. read more

Disclaimer: I didn't ride the mule, I hiked (unfortunately). You have the choice, to ride or hike. Mules are super sturdy, move up and down the mountain pretty quickly. Receive a quick session on how to be a "mule rider." Mule riders have guides on the trail with them, hikers are on their own. They provide lunch. Tour of Kaluapapa 3.5 hour. Great staff. Easy to find. Kamaaiana message me for the extra scoops. read more

We chose to do the mule ride down to Kalaupapa because my bf has some knee issues. This was something we had really wanted to do. I booked online for the ride/tour/lunch & it was worth every penny. The mules seemed well cared for and pretty much know the drill. If you have a fear of heights, this may not be for you. In some sections the trail is pretty narrow & I got uneasy a couple times, but in the end, there was nothing to really worry about. The views are spectacular & our guides were friendly & helped keep the pack moving along. The tour of Kalaupapa & lunch was amazing. So, so glad we did this. You won't regret it, just don't focus on looking down!!! read more

See all

This was our top favorite thing to do on Molokai! It is definitely a once in a lifetime experience! My husband and I chose to ride the mules vs hiking or flying and I'm happy with that choice. If you do hike down keep in mind it is the same trail the mules climb up and down(lots of poop!) Once everyone checks in you get a quick lesson on how to ride and then you're paired with your mule. Mine was Smokey who was a little sassy but cute as all out. The mules really no help going up or down so if you're hesitant no need to be! Once you get to the bottom, you'll learn so much about the colony! When we go back to Molokai, I can't wait to do it again! Thanks JR and team for an unforgettable experience! read more

Molokai Mule Ride - These sweet babies do all the work if you are doing the mule ride - Tours Near Me - Kualapuu, Hawaii

This was a wonderful experience for me and my family. My dad hiked and my husband and mom and I muled down. Our day was very peaceful, and educational. I'm so glad we were able to do this together! read more

Molokai Mule Ride - Picnic lunch view - Tours Near Me - Kualapuu, Hawaii

Amazing experience. It was very rustic and authentic... True to the beautiful spirit that is Molokai. It's a family run business with the son and grandson of the late Buzzy Sproat continuing his legacy and aloha. The staff truly work hard to make the adventure fun and memorable. The mules are phenomenally adept to the trail and they work their butt off to get you down and back up the 20+ switchbacks safe and sound. These animals are gentle, smart, and very strong. The views, the history of Kalaupapa and Kalawao, and the wonderful people you meet along the way definitely leaves its mark on your soul! I highly recommend locals of Hawaii to experience this adventure and see a side of our home, Hawaii, that still resonates in the old, traditional ways that we should always respect and love. Plenty aloha to the Sproat 'ohana for taking us on a completely memorable trek. I will be back!! read more

See all

What a great day! The ALOHA spirit of the staff, the views, the magnificent mules truly made for a wonderful experience. JR does an excellent job running the show! Each person on our ride was paired with the appropriate mule, and go love for Molokai and the history made the ride down very interesting. It is a bit scary, but the mules do most of the work. read more

Molokai Mule Ride - View from about switchback 5 (of26!) - Tours Near Me - Kualapuu, Hawaii

See all

An absolute MUST. Even if you only come to Molokai to do this, it is worth it. The experience, seeing and being where saints walked is a gift in time. The tour guides with the mules were wonderful. ...skilled, funny, got me down and up unscathed. Clare was knowledgeable and interesting. The lunch was simple but sufficient. Thank you for an unforgettable experience. read more

The mule ride was AWESOME! I felt safe the entire time & the views were incredible! The guides were helpful, friendly & fun. This is must do on Moloka'i. The ONLY reason I give 4 Stars is because the tour once down in the colony left much to be desired. Our guide Keahi seemed to like to talk more about himself than the actual place we were visiting. There was so much wasted time. In the 2 1/2 hrs we were on the tour we only saw 4 things, temple ruins, a look out, Father Damien's old Church & Mother Marianne's grave. We did not see any of the new part of the colony. My parents did a tour (I'm assuming with a different guide, or even company) & they saw many more things & heard a lot more information. Like I said the actual Mule Ride was AMAZING, I would go again just for the ride, but the tour guide would receive zero stars from me. read more

What an experience--I'm so glad I did this! First you ride a mule down a sheer cliff face, which is totally terrifying. I was afraid that I would fall off of my mule and tumble down the cliff. Even so, the view is phenomenal: blue ocean, green trees. At one point, you are riding through a section of the forest where all the treetrunks are bleached white--it looks like a witch's home from a fairy tale. It's unforgettable. Then, after 26 switchbacks, you arrive at Kalaupapa. You tour the site of the former leprosy colony, where a small number of people with Hansen's disease still reside to this day. Our tour guide, Norman, was great--he make the history come alive. Then you eat lunch and hop back on your mule. It's strange, but the mules climb the cliff more quickly than they descend it... I guess they want to go home! I would definitely recommend the mule ride over the hike. If you are hiking, remember 1) it is a really hard climb; and 2) this tiny trail is filled with mules everyday. There is a lot of mule poo. I can't imagine the hike would be all that pleasant, but the mule ride is great. Also, I would book far in advance, because the mule rides fill up quickly. And as soon as you book your spot, also call Alamo (the only car rental service on the island) and reserve a car. I called weeks ahead, but all the cars were already sold out. If there are no cars available, you have to use the taxi service on the island. And it is expensive. More expensive than a cab in New York! read more

This tour was amazing. I booked it online and decided to just do a day trip. I flew in early in the morning and grabbed a cab and flew out the same day. The people who run it are very professional and know what they are doing. We started a bit later than expected but that's because it was island time. We all had to sign a waiver then we were paired with our mule we had a few paniolos with us and once we started the miles seemed to know their job. They tell you to lean back on the way down and lean forward on the way up. I kept petting my mule so he knew I appreciated all the hard work he was doing. The trail is pretty covered and it's a bunch of switch backs. Once you are level you go by one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. They take you to a stopping point where you meet with a tour bus that takes you on the rest of your tour. The mules are cared for by the paniolos during this time. Once that tour is complete you come back and get on the same mule. They call out the mule names instead of passenger names, so make sure you remember. Then you are going back up the trail to where you started. I am so glad I did this tour because I don't think it will be around forever. I learned so much doing the St. Damien tour and the mule ride was an added bonus! If you get the chance this is the way to go to get to Kalaupapa. read more

See all

Best mule ride ever with the late Buzzy's family. They were the best mule skinners ever! So glad we were able to do this awesome ride. Definitely not scary as they give u tips on how to ride confidently! Our mules were surefooted the whole way and the experience and knowledge of Kalapaupa was undescribeable! Must do!! read more

Amazing experience....we took this trip years ago with our two children, who were young teenagers at the time. The views couldn't be beat and our tour leader was very helpful in answering all our questions about the leper colony. I have to admit it was rather scary taking that narrow trail with switchbacks down to the sea....there were times the mules seem to slip a bit but we were assured they would get us there safely. The tour is definitely worthwhile and one you won't forget! read more

I did the mule ride tour on 10/24/11 and I am no longer afraid of heights. The staff are friendly even to the tourists. The mules are trained and have gone up and down the trails over thousands times per mule guider! We are told there are no suicidal mules which one of my friends were worried. The mules already know what to do just like they are on auto pilot you just need to trust them and hang on! I recommend you call in advance to reserve a spot because it is first come first serve basis and people do show up without any reservation. There are 3 guiders (that's what I call them) that comes with us and they make sure mules keep moving cause they stop and along the trail but mare sure all goes well. Cons, if you are extremely terrified of heights and have a bad back this is not for you. Going down is hard because there's alot of stopping and leaning back in the saddle so you don't go forward! The mule I rode loves the edges near the cliff but if you want to conquer your fear of heights this is perfect to try because going back was better! I plan to go back and ride the mule again and relax on the island! read more

Molokai Mule Ride - Molokai Mule Ride Trail - Tours Near Me - Kualapuu, Hawaii

Be forewarned, this trip, amazing as it is is not for everyone. I did the trip but wished the tour people had cautioned me against it. Being short (5 ft), my legs were too short and the stirrups not short enough to give the needed support for the 1600 ft. steep angled ride down the side of the cliff. Before long I was experiencing great pain even though I have a high pain tolerance and I was unable dismount without assistance. Luckily my friend had a painkiller which helped and I was able to ride back up the cliff. Also, this trip may not be advisable for anyone with arthritis, back or knee problems. read more

This trip was GREAT! Buzzy lead us down and each of the mules has their own nature. Thank goodness Tita (Hawaiian for sister) was a great mule! Okay, a bit stubborn (expected) and feisty, but not sure why she LOVED hugging the edge of the trail?! Again - GREAT ADVENTURE! The views are the best, the 26 switchbacks are a countdown to an incredible place, and even for a novice, this is a "not to be missed trip"! Buzzy's wife makes an incredible lunch - she makes sure it is FRESH - as the sandwich is build it yourself and everything is included. Whole wheat bread, ham, cheese, lettuce and spread - mayo or mustard. I was impressed - fresh and tasty, with a view to die for! Buzzy was our tour guide - the Damien Tour guy had a family emergency - and Buzzy's "fill in" was incredible! He told us a lot about life in the settlement, in a very respectful, historical and relevant manner. We stopped at some great places, saw a very interesting response to a very difficult medical paradox, and after doing a lot of research on the settlement, I felt it was a very moving and spiritual experience. The NPS stamp is at the bookstore and the brochure is there as well. The only NPS sign (without the arrowhead, as I think it fell off) is at the airport. read more

This tour is definitely not for the faint at heart. This is not your average trail ride...it is pretty intense. While almost anyone with any experience and a will to follow directions and safety measures can do it (hubby and I only have a few regular trail rides under our belt), it is alot of work and you WILL be soar the next day. It gives you a huge respect for the mules and those who make this trek daily. It is 100% well worth the effort. The guides were fantastic, the mules seemed very well kept and well taken care of and everyone was super friendly. It is a LONG ride so prepare for a full day of adventure. And don't forget, you have to go back up too! Lol! The up was much easier than the down. The mules know what they're doing and behaved very well. The views are breathtaking and the history of the town is astonishing. It is not a town you are allowed to visit without a permit. So this is an awesome way to get in and see and learn what it's about! You are basically going up and down steps with many switchbacks on a mule for 2 hours with a historical tour of the town below in between. The brown bag lunch was nothing special but did the trick just fine. Sandwich chips and a drink if I remember right, at a little picnic area overlooking the water with a breathtaking view. When you make your way back, you receive a photo of you on your mule along with a certificate of completion and bumper sticker that you are now a member of the club for your accomplishments. I don't know If I'd do it again, but it's definitely something to try at least once in your life and an adventure for those looking to spice it up a bit! read more

My husband and I went to maui last summer and booked the mule ride to the kalupapa park. It was a once in a lifetime experience. I had no idea what it would be like as far as terrain etc. I have ridden horses for almost 40 years, but this was a totally different experience. My mule Stripe was amazing he was leopard appy/mule he was young and very forward. I was happy he was my guide up and down the mountain. What a mountain it was. The views were out of this world 26 steep switch backs with cliffs. I was honestly a little anxious, but once I had the feel for the ride it was ok. Not many people get to experience this view. Then there was the park it was so interesting and I would suggest anyone who goes to maui to defiantly do this tour. The town does not have much to offer so you may want to bring a snack, but the tour provides a nice bag lunch. A must do I promise you will love it!! read more

Kalaupapa is definitely a must visit when on Moloka'i. When visiting, there are 3 ways to get there; hike, fly, or mule. Flying there was a bit out of our price range. The idea of hiking back up did not appeal to us. While not cheap ($199/person), we decided to go with the mule ride for the experience. We loved our experience with Moloka'i Mule Tours. The people there were very friendly, welcoming, and helpful. He ended up talking story with 3 of the employees for a good 20-30 minutes or so while we were waiting for the tour to begin. They were very nice and gave off the feeling that this is a family establishment that will treat you like a part of theirs. I later found out that one of the people that we had been talking to was the owner and her son. Nice people. Throughout the tour the guides were really friendly and helpful too. They were able to keep the mules in control without treating them poorly. The guys really seem to genuinely care about the animals and not just treat them like money making property. It was endearing to see. The mules themselves were awesome. The guides select your mule for you (I was lucky to get one that I had been looking at earlier because she seemed mellow) and I had one named U'i. She gave me no problems and went with the flow. Generally, the mules seem like they are on full-on autopilot. Most of them followed the line up and down and didn't stray and do anything too crazy. At first the ride down is a bit intimidating, but once you get the hang of it all is good and not too scary. Once at the bottom they send you off with Father Damien Tours (I didn't love the tour itself, but it was ok), but then you regroup a few hours later. A great experience if you're ever visiting Moloka'i. read more

Broke my back in two places after getting thrown...subsequent lawsuit found found MMR liable...there have been other accidents! Just a warning! read more

Micah was an incredible guide. The mule who kept me safe, Stripes, was the lead mule and the most beautiful I've ever seen. Please go do this - it is humbling and the tour by Claire at http://molokai-outdoors.com was truly delightful, honest and genuine. read more

Ran by a Great family, went above and beyond when our tour was canceled! I don't think any company would have tried so hard to try and make up for it. Mahalo read more

When I first heard I was expected to ride a mule down the side of a cliff to tour an active leper colony... I was a little nervous. However, the tour guides were amazing, the experience was like nothing I've ever had before, and the mules were pretty cool too. This is a 3+ generation family business that goes out of its way to share the history and tradition of a part of the world that is largely untouched by modern society -- partially by design, partially by circumstance. The views of on this land are amazing and the stories of the people that forged this community are wonderful. Also, because of the still-active colony, the National Parks department requires a sponsor to go into Kalaupapa -- and the tour handles all the paperwork for you. This trip should be on everyone's bucket list! read more

I went on this ride with two friends today. The staff is amazing....kind and patient...the views are spectacular....the mules wonderful. This is an experience to put on your bucket list. However, if you have any arthritis in your knees or hips this is probably not for you. The staff did everything they could possibly do to help me, but I was in pain. So, be realistic about your limitations before getting on a mule. Many thanks to the staff for putting up with me. read more

Scary but fun i thought i was going to die the whole time if you are afraid of heights this is not for you if you are a thrill seeker go for it bring a sun hat read more

I absolutely agree with everyone who's commented that this is a once-in-a-lifetime event. I came to the adventure never having ridden a mule (or horse) and moderately afraid of heights. The mule skinners knew this and did a great job of checking in throughout the ride. The mules were a very well-trained bunch, moving at a pace that was probably no faster than an average hiker would hike on a hilly trail. They were very sure-footed. Although they sometimes veered towards the sheer side of the trail, the mules did live up to the guide's statement that they're not suicidal. They've never lost a rider, btw. By switchback #2 (of 26), I was feeling surprisingly comfortable and able to enjoy the scenery and the ride. Honestly, I had been expecting to be terrified much of the ride, and I truly wasn't. As for the cliffside trail, if you've ever hiked the Kalaulau trail on Kauai, this is certainly not worse and probably, in fact, less scary. And of course Kalaupapa and Kalawao were amazing, incredible places to visit. read more