Safety & Pro Tips
Master the art of safe ziplining with insider knowledge from Hawaiian adventure experts
Written by a Local Expert
Kalani MillerSafety First: The Foundation of Great Adventures
The modern zipline industry is incredibly safety-conscious. Many of the top operators on the Big Island, including Kohala Zipline and Botanical World Adventures, are compliant with or certified by the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT). The ACCT is the internationally recognized standard-setter for the industry.
Guides on the Big Island go through extensive training, often 80 hours or more—double the industry standard. All equipment is inspected daily. These guides are professionals whose number one job is to keep you safe so you can focus on having the time of your life.
Physical Considerations and Accessibility
Let's be honest about the physical demands of ziplining. While it's not as strenuous as hiking or surfing, there are some physical considerations that might affect your experience.
🏃♂️ Fitness Requirements
You don't need to be an athlete to enjoy ziplining, but basic mobility is important. You'll need to walk between platforms (sometimes on uneven terrain), climb stairs to reach launching points, and be able to follow basic safety instructions. Most tours involve 1-2 miles of walking total, spread out over 2-3 hours.
Required Abilities:
- • Walk 1-2 miles on uneven terrain
- • Climb stairs to platforms
- • Lift legs during landing
- • Follow safety instructions
- • Maintain proper body position
Helpful Strength:
- • Core strength for positioning
- • Arm strength for grip
- • Leg strength for landing
- • Balance and coordination
- • Confidence in heights
👶 Age Considerations
Every operator has slightly different requirements, but generally, children as young as 4 can participate in tandem rides with certified guides.
⚖️ Weight Considerations
Weight limits aren't just about the ziplines—they're about the safety equipment. Harnesses are designed for specific weight ranges, and braking systems are calibrated accordingly.
⚠️ Important Safety Note
If you're close to the weight limits (either high or low), call the operator directly before booking. They often have specialized equipment or alternative options that aren't advertised online. Honesty about weight is crucial for safety—the scales at check-in aren't negotiable.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Zipline Day
👕 What to Wear
What you wear can make a big difference in your comfort. And on the Big Island, what you wear depends entirely on which side of the island you're on.
🌊 Hāmākua Coast (East Side)
Think rain, even on a sunny day. Brief, warm showers can pop up at any moment.
- • Quick-drying athletic clothes
- • Light rain jacket
- • Old athletic shoes (will get muddy)
- • Knee-length shorts/pants
🌳 North Kohala (West Side)
Think sun and layers. Generally drier but can be cool in morning.
- • Comfortable t-shirt (no tank tops)
- • Light jacket for morning
- • Sunscreen (non-negotiable)
- • Closed-toe shoes
🚫 Universal Rules for All Courses:
- • Closed-toe shoes are mandatory (no exceptions)
- • Wear knee-length shorts, capris, or long pants
- • Tie back long hair to prevent tangling
- • Secure glasses with a strap
- • Leave dangling jewelry at home
📱 Booking Your Tour
You'll see zipline tours offered on big travel websites, sometimes for a small discount. My advice? Always book directly on the zipline company's official website.
✅ Why Book Direct:
- • Easier rescheduling/refunds
- • Direct customer service
- • No third-party complications
- • Accurate timing information
- • Group discounts available
💡 Pro Booking Tips:
- • Book 2+ weeks ahead in peak season
- • Morning tours fill up first
- • Call for group discounts (6+ people)
- • Consider weather when booking
- • Ask about combo packages
Special Accommodations & Considerations
🤝 Special Needs Support
Most operators work with guests who have special needs or concerns.
- • Call ahead to discuss concerns
- • Modified experiences available
- • Extra guide attention possible
- • Anxiety support provided
⚠️ Medical Restrictions
Some conditions prevent participation for safety reasons.
- • Pregnancy (generally not allowed)
- • Recent surgeries
- • Heart conditions
- • Severe mobility issues
✅ Safety Checklist
- Choose ACCT-certified operators
- Follow all guide instructions
- Wear proper clothing & shoes
- Disclose medical conditions
- Stay within weight limits
🚨 Emergency Info
All tour operators carry first aid kits and have emergency protocols in place.
🛡️ Insurance Tips
- Check travel insurance coverage
- Read waivers carefully
- Understand activity exclusions
- Consider adventure sports coverage
📖 Complete Guide
Navigate through our comprehensive Big Island ziplining guide.