Mauna Kea Summit Adventures | Book Big Island Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
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Mauna Kea Summit Adventures

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The often snow-capped Mauna Kea stands as the tallest mountain in Hawaii and is considered the tallest mountain in the world when measured from the sea floor to summit. Traverse its cinder peaks for spectacular views and unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Stare deep into the expansive universe as you sip on delicious warming beverages and take in the crisp, sacred, and unforgettable surroundings of this spectacularly cold Hawaiian wonderland.
FAQs for Visiting Mauna Kea

Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9:00am - 10:00pm (Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station)
Due to renovations, the visitor center will close at 5:00pm starting December 9th. Construction is expected to last 6 months.

When should I go stargazing? - The best time for stargazing on Mauna Kea is on a clear and moonless night.
What else can I do on Mauna Kea? - Things to do at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station include watching videos, shopping at the First Light Bookstore, stopping by the silversword garden, picnicking, hiking to the top of Pu'u Kalepeamoa, and viewing the Sun through a solar telescope.
What are conditions like at the summit? - Bring a warm jacket! The average temperature at the summit of Mauna Kea is 30°F (-1°C) and high wind conditions are common.
Does the peak get crowded? - The busiest time to visit Mauna Kea is between 30 minutes before sunset to 1.5 hours after sunset. Parking and space at the visitor station during this time will be limited.
Can I drive myself up the mountain? - The access road to the summit, above the visitor center, is steep graded-gravel and will require a 4WD vehicle with low range.
Is it safe to climb to the summit? - The area is safe for any healthy adult, though some may be affected by altitude sickness. Due to high altitudes and low oxygen levels, pregnant women, children under 16 years of age, those with a history of respiratory or heart problems, high blood pressure, obese persons (40+ BMI), and those who have been scuba diving within 24 hours should not travel beyond the visitor center.

Tours visiting Mauna Kea depart from Kona, Waikoloa and Kohala areas. No Hilo area departures are currently available.

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Latest reviews of Mauna Kea Summit Adventures

Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Adventure with Picnic Dinner

Out of this world!

2024/01/02 Families with Young Children Lorrilee

The tour was well-organized, and our guide was knowledgeable and personable.

Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour Experience with Free Professional Photos - Epic Tours

Fabulous event

2024/01/02 Families Mike

This tour was one of my families favorite adventure while vacationing in Hawaii. James, our guide, was great. Very knowledgeable, had a sense of humor, and did a great job with the photos. He shared some of his other ... more

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Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour & Summit Sunset Adventure

Awesome - everything

2024/01/01 Families David B

We had the best time
Tour guide was so knowledgeable and friendly
We learned so much about Hawaii and the big Island and astronomy
On the way we learned so much

Tour guide was exceptional
- always told us what wa... more

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Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Expert Nature Guide

Amazing experience! Great tour guide!

2023/11/24 Families Harish

We had an amazing experience and time on this trip. Our tour guide, Stefan, was deeply knowledgeable, fun and friendly. The tour started on time and went out perfect. They provided mitts and coats which kept us warm alon... more

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Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Expert Nature Guide

Once in a lifetime!

2023/11/22 Solo Travelers L in Az

This was on my bucket list. My guide was very informative. He took pictures, individual and group pictures of us during sunset and during the stargazing event. Be prepared to bounce around on the dirt road to the summit... more

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Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour & Summit Sunset Adventure

A full package

2023/11/12 Solo Travelers Varpu M

The guide was great and shared loads of interesting facts and stories about history, nature, culture, language, habits and astronomy. His knowledge and captivating way of presenting things were amazing. I also highly ap... more

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Mauna Kea Summit Adventures | Book Big Island Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
The often snow-capped Mauna Kea stands as the tallest mountain in Hawaii and is considered the tallest mountain in the world when measured from the sea floor to summit. Traverse its cinder peaks for spectacular views and unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Stare deep into the expansive universe as you sip on delicious warming beverages and take in the crisp, sacred, and unforgettable surroundings of this spectacularly cold Hawaiian wonderland.