Big Island: Maunakea Summit & Stars Tour
Duration
Guided tour
Transfers available
Meals included
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Embark on a guided summit adventure that includes a warm picnic dinner, hot chocolate, dessert, and round-trip transportation in custom off-road coaches.
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Witness a stunning sunset atop Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Pacific Ocean, with expert guides sharing local insights.
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Stargaze through two powerful telescopes and receive digital photos of deep space objects captured during your experience.
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Learn about Hawaiian star navigation and astronomy in a small-group setting, ensuring a personalized, interactive tour.
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Stay cozy with the provided winter parkas, gloves, and warm wear—no need to worry about the mountain chill.
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Guided trip to Mauna Kea summit and lower-elevation stargazing site
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Small group size (max 12 guests)
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Warm picnic dinner and refreshments
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Hot chocolate and dessert during stargazing
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Use of Celestron and Stellina telescopes for night sky viewing
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Photos of some celestial objects viewed
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Expert interpretive guide
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Transportation in custom off-road motor coaches
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Gear provided:
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Winter jackets/parkas
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Gloves
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Warm wear
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Transportation to meeting points
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Additional snacks/drinks
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Tips and gratuities
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These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Witness a Pacific sunset atop Mauna Kea, then stargaze with expert guides and telescopes on this 8–9 hour small-group adventure.
Getting started
Meet your guide at the designated pick-up point and board a custom off-road motor coach. After a brief introduction and gear fitting, enjoy a warm picnic dinner before the ascent to the summit.
What to expect
Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure
Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Pacific Ocean, is a site of scientific and cultural significance, renowned for its clear night skies and ancient Hawaiian navigation traditions. This guided tour combines sunset views, astronomy, and local insights for a comprehensive summit experience.
Features
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Summit sunset: Watch the sun dip below the horizon from Mauna Kea’s summit, a location prized for its altitude and panoramic views.
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Stargazing session: Use an 11” Celestron and a Stellina digital telescope to observe deep space objects, with expert guides sharing Hawaiian star navigation techniques.
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Warmth and comfort: Stay cozy with provided winter parkas, gloves, and refreshments, including hot chocolate and dessert during stargazing.
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Small group experience: Groups are limited to 12 guests, ensuring personalized attention and ample time for questions.
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Eco-friendly practices: The tour uses reusable materials and follows a leave-no-trace policy as a certified, permitted operator on Mauna Kea.
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What to bring
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Wear closed-toe shoes that are suitable for uneven or rocky terrain.
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Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
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Dress warmly with socks or leggings, a sweater or sweatshirt, and long pants for cold conditions.
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Bring any personal medications you may need during the tour.
What’s not allowed
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Children under the age of 13 cannot join this experience.
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Guests who have scuba dived within 24 hours prior cannot participate due to altitude considerations.
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Independent hiking or exploring the summit before sunset is prohibited.
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Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
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Alcohol, drugs, or any form of intoxication is strictly forbidden.
Accessibility
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This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.
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Guests must be able to walk short distances on uneven or rocky surfaces.
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Not recommended for individuals with respiratory, circulatory, or heart conditions, those who are pregnant, or those in poor health.
Additional information
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Observatory access is not included, as they are currently closed to the public.
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Summit temperatures can drop below freezing, and cold, wet, or muddy conditions are possible.
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Weather can change rapidly, and summit access may be restricted without notice due to safety regulations.
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The tour returns late; ensure you have arranged transportation from your designated meeting point.
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Snow occurs seasonally, with the heaviest accumulation in winter months.
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Hilo-based guests should meet at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy; direct pick-up from Hilo is not available.
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Pick-up locations:
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King Kamehameha Courtyard Marriott (12:10pm)
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Kona Village Resort (12:45pm)
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Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (12:45pm)
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Queens' Market Place (south side) (1:10pm)
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Waikoloa Plaza (near Domino's Pizza) (1:25pm)
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- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
100% ticket guarantee
Receive tickets on time, for the experience you've booked.
100% experience guarantee
Get a refund if your experience doesn't happen as promised.
100% assistance guarantee
Available before, during, and after your trip.
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