Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour on the Big Island: Stargazing at 2,800 Meters at Hawaii's Mauna Kea Observatory | 4,300-meter Summit for Sunset and Stargazing | Hilo Pick-up + Dinner (Light Meal)
5.0
(5 reviews)
Tour Code: 48372
$289.00 per person
Best Price Guaranteed
Departure CityBig Island
End CityBig Island
Duration6 hours
LanguageChinese Live, English Live
Tour ThemesOutdoor Adventure, Natural Landscapes
Group SizeStandard Group Tour
Highlights
• English tours are available, with the option to reach the summit at 4,300 meters to watch the sunset and stargaze.
• Astronomy Observation: Recognized worldwide as a premier astronomical observation point, home to 13 international observatories.
• World Summit: Upgrade your experience to ascend to the world's highest peak at 4,300 meters, where you can enjoy the sunset, stargazing, and scenic snow views.
• Suitable for independent travelers or semi-independent travelers who want to chase the stars.
• Astronomy Observation: Recognized worldwide as a premier astronomical observation point, home to 13 international observatories.
• World Summit: Upgrade your experience to ascend to the world's highest peak at 4,300 meters, where you can enjoy the sunset, stargazing, and scenic snow views.
• Suitable for independent travelers or semi-independent travelers who want to chase the stars.
Itinerary
Mauna Kea Volcano
Snow in Hawaii?! Yes, it does snow in Hawaii. In winter, you can see the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea, standing at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters), which is the tallest mountain in the Pacific. Gazing at the twinkling stars or visiting the summit of Mauna Kea is just one of the many surprising adventures you can experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The tour picks up guests from the Hilo hotel area for the Mauna Kea & Stargazing tour. After more than an hour's drive, we first stop at a 7,000-foot rest area for dinner. Due to the high altitude, adjustments will be made locally before heading to the breathtaking sunset view at 14,000 feet (4,300 meters).
Mauna Kea is home to 13 of the world's astronomical observatories and is recognized as one of the best stargazing locations globally. Since its establishment in 1968, it has made groundbreaking advancements in the study of star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, supernovae, and black holes.
You will visit the astronomical complex and learn about the ongoing research of our cosmic wonders. Due to the high altitude and low temperatures, the U.S. federal government requires all visitors to descend after sunset. The tour company will drive you to a location near the visitor center (at an elevation of 7,000-9,000 feet) to continue enjoying the starry sky while providing 11-inch telescopes and hot beverages.
You will return to the hotel around 9 PM.
Itinerary Options
English Tour: Sunset Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Summit (4,300 meters) (Participants must be 16 years or older)
Pick-up from designated hotels in the Hilo area (limited to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Grand Naniloa Hotel)
Departure from designated locations in the Kona area (limited to Starbucks at Queens' Marketplace or Bank of Hawaii at Kona Commons).
Departure locations in the Kona area are limited. Reservations must be made at least three days in advance, and final availability is subject to reconfirmation by the provider.
Schedule
Mauna Kea & Stargazing Tour Pick-Up Timetable (The pick-up time varies with sunset time; please refer to the final confirmed time)
English Tour Sunset Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Summit (approximately 6 hours)
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Pick-up and departure. (Summer pick-up at 3-4 PM, Winter pick-up at 2-3 PM)
6:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Visit the Onizuka International Observatory Center at Mauna Kea.
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Enjoy a light dinner (at the visitor center).
7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Drive to the summit at 4,300 meters to enjoy the sunset.
8:00 PM - 8:45 PM: Begin stargazing and learn about astronomy; stargazing photography. (Adjustments may be made based on weather conditions).
9:00 PM: Return.
Special Notes
1) Since the stargazing occurs at elevations above 3,000 meters, the weather on the mountain can change rapidly, and forecasts may not be accurate. Therefore, we cannot provide refunds if stars are not visible due to weather conditions.
2) Guests need to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. Conditions may include cold waves, dampness, or mud in high-altitude areas. Due to the high altitude, participation is not recommended for those with breathing, circulation, or heart conditions, pregnant individuals, or those in poor health. Divers should be aware of altitude-related dangers.
3) Children under 16 years old cannot participate. Other travel restrictions may apply to the remaining guests. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a sweatshirt or sweater are required. Each guest must honestly inform us of their health condition and understand their own physical situation; we cannot make judgments regarding altitude adaptation for you.
4) All adults are responsible for their final decisions, and for children under 18, adults must make the judgment and take responsibility for them.
Snow in Hawaii?! Yes, it does snow in Hawaii. In winter, you can see the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea, standing at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters), which is the tallest mountain in the Pacific. Gazing at the twinkling stars or visiting the summit of Mauna Kea is just one of the many surprising adventures you can experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The tour picks up guests from the Hilo hotel area for the Mauna Kea & Stargazing tour. After more than an hour's drive, we first stop at a 7,000-foot rest area for dinner. Due to the high altitude, adjustments will be made locally before heading to the breathtaking sunset view at 14,000 feet (4,300 meters).
Mauna Kea is home to 13 of the world's astronomical observatories and is recognized as one of the best stargazing locations globally. Since its establishment in 1968, it has made groundbreaking advancements in the study of star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, supernovae, and black holes.
You will visit the astronomical complex and learn about the ongoing research of our cosmic wonders. Due to the high altitude and low temperatures, the U.S. federal government requires all visitors to descend after sunset. The tour company will drive you to a location near the visitor center (at an elevation of 7,000-9,000 feet) to continue enjoying the starry sky while providing 11-inch telescopes and hot beverages.
You will return to the hotel around 9 PM.
Itinerary Options
English Tour: Sunset Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Summit (4,300 meters) (Participants must be 16 years or older)
Pick-up from designated hotels in the Hilo area (limited to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Grand Naniloa Hotel)
Departure from designated locations in the Kona area (limited to Starbucks at Queens' Marketplace or Bank of Hawaii at Kona Commons).
Departure locations in the Kona area are limited. Reservations must be made at least three days in advance, and final availability is subject to reconfirmation by the provider.
Schedule
Mauna Kea & Stargazing Tour Pick-Up Timetable (The pick-up time varies with sunset time; please refer to the final confirmed time)
English Tour Sunset Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Summit (approximately 6 hours)
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Pick-up and departure. (Summer pick-up at 3-4 PM, Winter pick-up at 2-3 PM)
6:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Visit the Onizuka International Observatory Center at Mauna Kea.
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Enjoy a light dinner (at the visitor center).
7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Drive to the summit at 4,300 meters to enjoy the sunset.
8:00 PM - 8:45 PM: Begin stargazing and learn about astronomy; stargazing photography. (Adjustments may be made based on weather conditions).
9:00 PM: Return.
Special Notes
1) Since the stargazing occurs at elevations above 3,000 meters, the weather on the mountain can change rapidly, and forecasts may not be accurate. Therefore, we cannot provide refunds if stars are not visible due to weather conditions.
2) Guests need to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. Conditions may include cold waves, dampness, or mud in high-altitude areas. Due to the high altitude, participation is not recommended for those with breathing, circulation, or heart conditions, pregnant individuals, or those in poor health. Divers should be aware of altitude-related dangers.
3) Children under 16 years old cannot participate. Other travel restrictions may apply to the remaining guests. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a sweatshirt or sweater are required. Each guest must honestly inform us of their health condition and understand their own physical situation; we cannot make judgments regarding altitude adaptation for you.
4) All adults are responsible for their final decisions, and for children under 18, adults must make the judgment and take responsibility for them.
Tips
Note: Sunset Schedule for the Entire Year
January: 5:54 PM - 6:10 PM
February: 6:14 PM - 6:26 PM
March: 6:27 PM - 6:35 PM
April: 6:36 PM - 6:44 PM
May: 6:45 PM - 6:57 PM
June: 6:57 PM - 7:04 PM
July: 6:59 PM - 7:05 PM
August: 6:38 PM - 6:58 PM
September: 6:10 PM - 6:38 PM
October: 5:48 PM - 6:09 PM
November: 5:41 PM - 5:47 PM
December: 5:53 PM - 5:41 PM
January: 5:54 PM - 6:10 PM
February: 6:14 PM - 6:26 PM
March: 6:27 PM - 6:35 PM
April: 6:36 PM - 6:44 PM
May: 6:45 PM - 6:57 PM
June: 6:57 PM - 7:04 PM
July: 6:59 PM - 7:05 PM
August: 6:38 PM - 6:58 PM
September: 6:10 PM - 6:38 PM
October: 5:48 PM - 6:09 PM
November: 5:41 PM - 5:47 PM
December: 5:53 PM - 5:41 PM
Meal
B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Included(light dinner)
Meeting & Transfer Info
Meeting Point
02:15 PM | Kona Area
Kona Commons Bank of Hawaii 74-5457 Makala Blvd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
Due to the varying sunset times, the pick-up time will also change. Please refer to the final confirmed time.
03:00 PM | Kona Area
Starbucks at Queens' Marketplace 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive #1001 K-1, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
Due to the varying sunset times, the pick-up time will also change. Please refer to the final confirmed time.
02:55 PM | Hilo Area
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel - 71 Banyan Dr Hilo, HI 96720, USA
Due to the varying sunset times, the pick-up time will also change. Please refer to the final confirmed time.
03:00 PM | Hilo Area
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a DoubleTree by Hilton 93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720, USA
Due to the varying sunset times, the pick-up time will also change. Please refer to the final confirmed time.
What’s Included
Includes
- Free pick-up and drop-off service available at designated locations in the Hilo or Kona area
- Professional Chinese or English-speaking guide
- Warm clothing
- English tours include a light meal and water
Excludes
- Airfare not included
- All personal expenses
- Service fee for the guide and driver not included: $12.00 per person per day
Special Notes
- Due to the high altitude of the attractions included in this tour, please follow the guide's instructions at all times. Avoid running or rough play during the tour to prevent altitude-related discomfort or oxygen deficiency, which could endanger your safety.
- A professional driver-guide will accompany you throughout the trip. (If a 38-seat bus is arranged on the day, a separate professional driver and guide will be provided.)
- Chinese/English tour - The driver-guide will speak Chinese or English respectively, suitable for guests who prefer semi-guided or self-guided travel.
- Please do not participate in snorkeling the day before joining this tour, and do not go diving within 24 hours after the activity. Pregnant women and guests with heart conditions are not allowed to participate.
- Please bring sunscreen and wear long-sleeved clothing and pants. Thicker jackets will be provided free of charge at the attraction. To protect the natural environment, the number of daily visitors is limited.
- If the English tour operator adjusts the pick-up time and the guest fails to reconfirm in advance, resulting in a missed tour, Tours4Fun will not be responsible.
- As this is a shared shuttle service, the vehicle will wait no longer than 10 minutes at each hotel. Please arrive in the lobby early based on your confirmed pick-up time.
- This tour must be booked at least 7 days in advance.
- Please bring a printed voucher when joining the tour.
Please Note:
1. Guests are not allowed to use a CITY PASS, NATIONAL PARK PASS and admission ticket purchased by themselves to join the sightseeing attractions included in this tour.
2. Guests who do use a CITY PASS, NATIONAL PARK PASS or admission ticket purchased by themselves, will not be offered the transportation service for that day, and will possible need to pay a penalty fee. Please consult your tour guide for details.
The time we mentioned in the itinerary is for reference only. Please refer to your guide on tour for the actual arrangement. The visiting order and duration might be changed according to actual and practical situation for better service.
This tour/activity is overseen by a select local operator in the region. Upon booking your tour or activity and after receiving confirmation, you will be issued an e-ticket detailing the local operator's name and contact information. If you require assistance finding a specific tour, please contact us for more information.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement: If you have traveled to or transited through yellow fever-endemic regions including East African countries (excluding Tanzania) or South American countries, either before or after your trip, you may be required to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This requirement can apply not only for joining tours but also for certain flights or entry into specific countries. For more details, please refer to the official site: : Yellow Fever Risk Areas - Fit for Travel
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