Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset and Stars Tour on the Big Island
About Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset and Stars Tour on the Big Island
This tour takes you up Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Pacific, to watch the sunset from among the world’s largest collection of research telescopes, then stops lower down for stargazing. It has more than 1,800 reviews and a 4.8 rating.
Allow 5 to 8 hours. There is no hotel pickup, but there are set meeting points at the Maunakea Visitor Information Station, Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace and a Bank of Hawaii ATM in Kailua-Kona. Transport is in a 4×4 van, and jackets and gloves are provided for the cold.
Itinerary
- Mauna Kea Summit (4 hours)
- (30 minutes)
What’s included
- Experienced tour guide
- FREE night photo with our professional camera
- Snacks and a hot beverage
- Jackets and gloves to keep you warm
- Transportation in a comfortable 4X4 van
- Professional telescope (Weather Permitting)
Meeting point
Maunakea Visitor Information Station https://maps.app.goo.gl/nBuxZDm7CspDMiJV7 | Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace(Tour Shuttle Pick-Up Point) https://maps.app.goo.gl/tdgkU7q7kjwXnMWF6 | Bank of Hawaii ATM 74-5457 Makala Blvd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 https://maps.app.goo.gl/hToV4BhqeoBmnR918
What to expect on the day
On the drive up, the guide shares historic accounts of the Big Island. The tour spends about 4 hours on the Mauna Kea summit, where you watch the sunset near observatories that include two of the eight telescopes used for the first photos of a black hole.
After dark you have a star session with a hot drink and snacks, viewing planets through a professional telescope when the weather allows. The guide takes astrophotography portraits of you with the tour’s camera and emails them to you afterwards.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: Experienced guide, 4×4 van transport, jackets and gloves, snacks and a hot drink, use of a professional telescope when the weather allows, and a free night photo.
- Not included: Dinner, which you may bring yourself. This is a shared tour, not a private one.
What to bring
- Your own dinner, as no meal is included.
- Warm layers under the jacket provided, as weather at the summit can change quickly.
- A bag to carry your trash back down the mountain.
Tips for a better day
- Pick your meeting point: Choose between the Maunakea Visitor Information Station, Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace or Kailua-Kona when you book.
- Weather: Snow, fog and very strong winds are possible year-round, and the summit road can close for safety.
- Respect the mountain: Smoking, alcohol and drugs are not allowed at any time.
Who it’s best for
Best for: Adults and teens who want a summit sunset and a guided look at the night sky without driving the mountain road themselves.
Consider another option if: You are traveling with younger children or have heart problems. The Big Island in a Day volcano tour stays at lower altitude.
Restrictions
Not allowed for travelers under 13, pregnant travelers, or travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries. A moderate level of fitness is required.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
FAQ about Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset and Stars Tour on the Big Island
How long is the Mauna Kea summit tour?
The tour lasts 5 to 8 hours, with about 4 hours at the Mauna Kea summit.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. You meet the tour at the Maunakea Visitor Information Station, Waikoloa Queens' Marketplace or the Bank of Hawaii ATM at 74-5457 Makala Blvd, Kailua-Kona.
How do we get to the summit?
Transport is in a 4×4 van driven by the tour.
Will I be warm enough?
Jackets and gloves are provided. Weather can change rapidly and snow, fog and very strong winds are possible year-round.
Is dinner included?
No. Dinner is not included, but you may bring your own. Snacks and a hot drink are provided.
Will we use a telescope?
Yes, a professional telescope is used for viewing planets when the weather allows.
Do I get photos?
Yes. The guide takes a free night photo of you with the tour's camera and emails it to you.
What is the minimum age?
Travelers under 13 are not allowed on this tour.
Who should not take this tour?
It is not allowed for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions, and not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.
What is the cancellation policy?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
