Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Local Breakfast
About Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Local Breakfast
Watching the sun rise from Haleakala, the dormant volcano that rises over East Maui, is one of the island’s signature experiences. This guided tour takes you by comfortable mini coach to about 9,740 feet, close to the summit, for sunrise. It has close to 2,500 reviews.
The tour lasts about 10 hours. Pickup and drop-off at specific Maui hotels is included, along with Haleakala National Park admission and breakfast.
Itinerary
- Haleakala Crater (2 hours)
- (45 minutes)
- Makawao
- Kula
- Waikapu (1 hours)
What’s included
- Tour narration by a professional driver/guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Breakfast
- Sunrise Tour
- Pick-up and drop-off at specific Maui hotels
- Haleakala National Park admission fee
What to expect on the day
You spend around 2 hours at the crater area, where deep canyons and open volcanic slopes are home to the endemic Hawaiian nene goose and the rare silversword plant. Your driver-guide narrates the trip along the way.
On the way down you pass through Kula and Makawao with wide views of the Pacific, then stop for about an hour for breakfast at Cafe O’Lei at the Plantation in Waikapu.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: sunrise tour with narration by a professional driver-guide, air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, Haleakala National Park admission, and pickup and drop-off at specific Maui hotels.
- Not included: gratuities and port pickup and drop-off.
What to bring
- Warm layers, a jacket and a hat, as the summit is cold before dawn.
- Water to stay hydrated at high altitude.
- A rain jacket, since clouds and rain are common.
Tips for a better day
- Take it slow up top: walk slowly and drink water at the summit to help with the altitude.
- Plan around diving: wait at least 72 hours after scuba diving before going up the mountain.
- Request help early: contact the operator at least 7 days before the tour for ADA or other special requests.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: early risers who want to see Haleakala at dawn without driving the mountain road in the dark.
- Consider another option if: you prefer waterfalls and coast, like the small-group Road to Hana tour.
Restrictions
The tour is wheelchair accessible and suits all fitness levels, but it is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health. The high altitude can affect breathing, so elderly visitors, pregnant women, young children and people with heart or respiratory conditions should check with a doctor first. Infants sit on an adult’s lap, and the route uses rough, winding roads.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. The tour runs rain or shine and a clear sunrise is not guaranteed; refunds for weather are only given if the tour is canceled for safety reasons.
FAQ about Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Local Breakfast
Do I need a reservation for Haleakala sunrise on a tour?
This tour includes Haleakala National Park admission, so you do not need to arrange park entry yourself.
How high do you go on the Haleakala sunrise tour?
The coach takes you to about 9,740 feet, close to the summit.
How long is the Haleakala sunrise tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours including pickup and breakfast.
Is hotel pickup included for the Haleakala sunrise tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at specific Maui hotels is included. Port pickup is not.
Where is breakfast on the Haleakala tour?
Breakfast is at Cafe O'Lei at the Plantation in Waikapu.
Is the sunrise guaranteed at Haleakala?
No. Weather changes quickly and clouds and rain are common, so a clear view is not guaranteed.
How cold is Haleakala at sunrise?
The summit is much colder than the coast before dawn, so bring warm layers and a jacket.
Can I go to Haleakala after scuba diving?
You should wait at least 72 hours after scuba diving before taking this tour.
Is the Haleakala sunrise tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is listed as wheelchair accessible. Contact the operator 7 days ahead for ADA requests.
What is the cancellation policy for the Haleakala tour?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure. Weather refunds are only given if the tour is canceled for safety reasons.