| Instruction language | Japanese |
Please note that we will only be able to respond in Japanese.
The tour will be held with a minimum of 2 people.
Participants must be 11 years or older to participate in the tour.
Please refer to the list on the right for clothing and items to bring on the day. (Comfortable athletic shoes, clothes that don't expose much skin, hat, towel, raincoat)
Please make a reservation at least one day in advance for transportation to your accommodation.
There is a shower room with hot water (free of charge)
Iriomote Island offers an immersive subtropical forest trekking experience, often involving navigating lush jungle trails, river wading, and scrambling over roots to reach hidden waterfalls like Mariyudu Kambire. It's an opportunity to connect with Okinawa's pristine nature, guided by experts who highlight unique flora and fauna, making it an adventurous and educational journey into a vibrant ecosystem.
Iriomote Island's subtropical forest is characterized by its exceptional biodiversity and dense, humid environment. It features ancient mangrove forests lining river estuaries, towering banyan trees, and a rich variety of unique plants adapted to the island's warm, wet climate. This ecosystem supports a wide array of wildlife, including species endemic to Iriomote, making it a distinct and vibrant natural habitat.
During a guided trek on Iriomote Island, you might have the chance to spot rare and endemic species. These include the elusive Iriomote wild cat, various unique birds like the Iriomote whistling thrush, distinct frog species, and colorful insects. Experienced guides are adept at identifying these creatures and providing fascinating insights into their habitats and behaviors, enhancing your wildlife viewing opportunities.
Reaching Mariyudu Kambire waterfall typically involves a combination of kayaking or boating upstream on the Urauchi River, followed by a trek through the dense subtropical forest. The trail can be challenging, often involving river crossings and navigating natural jungle paths. It is highly recommended to join a guided tour with an experienced local guide to ensure safety and to fully appreciate the journey and destination.
To reach Iriomote Island, visitors must take a ferry from Ishigaki Island. Regular high-speed ferries operate from Ishigaki Port to Ohara Port (southern Iriomote) and Uehara Port (northern Iriomote). The journey takes approximately 35-40 minutes to Ohara and 40-50 minutes to Uehara, depending on the port. It's advisable to check ferry schedules and sea conditions in advance.
Once on Iriomote Island, transportation options include rental cars, local buses, or taxis. Rental cars offer the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace. Local buses connect the main villages and ports but operate on limited schedules. Taxis are available but can be less numerous. Many activities, like guided trekking tours, often include transportation from designated meeting points or accommodation.
Iriomote Island is an excellent destination for both first-time trekkers and avid nature enthusiasts. While some trails can be challenging, many guided tours cater to various fitness levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Its pristine subtropical environment, unique wildlife, and stunning waterfalls offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore rich biodiversity, making it highly rewarding for those seeking an authentic nature adventure.
For a subtropical forest trekking tour on Iriomote Island, it's essential to bring comfortable, quick-drying clothing, swimwear (for river activities), sturdy non-slip shoes or sandals suitable for water, and a waterproof bag for valuables. Sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a reusable water bottle are also highly recommended. Guided tours often provide necessary gear like life vests and specialized trekking shoes.