Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

You can’t miss this incredible chance to explore the Mauna Kea summit and stargaze on the Big Island. This small-group tour takes you up the mountain in a luxurious 4×4 van, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunset and enjoy a private stargazing session. With knowledgeable guides providing insights into Hawaii’s history and ecology, you’re in for an unforgettable evening under the stars. But the best part? There are only 12 spots available, so you’ll have an intimate, exclusive experience.

Key Points

• The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour offers a scenic 4×4 ride, a picnic dinner, and private stargazing sessions with 11" Celestron telescopes.
• The tour provides warm gear, including hooded parkas and gloves, to ensure comfort during the chilly summit experience.
• Knowledgeable guides share the history, culture, and ecology of Hawaii, enhancing the overall tour experience.
• The tour is not suitable for those with respiratory, heart, or circulatory conditions, back problems, or pregnancy.
• Advance booking is recommended due to the tour’s popularity and limited capacity of 12 travelers per group.

Overview and Experience

The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour offers a captivating experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.

You’ll start with a warm picnic dinner, then board a 4×4 luxury van for the scenic ride to the summit at 9,000 feet.

Witness the breathtaking sunset before embarking on a private stargazing session with 11" Celestron telescopes.

Your knowledgeable guide shares the history, culture, and ecology of Hawaii throughout the tour.

A complimentary hooded parka keeps you cozy as you gaze upon the celestial wonders above.

This small-group adventure promises an awe-inspiring evening you won’t soon forget.

Tour Details and Logistics

This tour includes a guide, complimentary hooded parkas, gloves, a hot picnic dinner, hot cocoa, and cookies, with all local taxes covered.

Pick-up and drop-off occur at central meeting locations, and the tour ends back at the starting point.

It’s not wheelchair accessible, and scuba divers should be aware of altitude dangers.

The minimum age is 13 years, and it’s unsuitable for those with respiratory, heart, or circulatory conditions, poor health, or pregnancy.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers due to the four-wheel drive access required to reach Mauna Kea’s summit.

Preparation and Recommendations

To make the most of your Mauna Kea Summit Adventure Tour, wear closed-toe shoes or hiking boots and bring a water bottle.

Pack a light sweatshirt or jacket, as you’ll receive a hooded parka for added warmth. Avoid wearing open-toe shoes or sandals, as there’s minimal walking but the high elevation can be chilly.

While the tour isn’t overly strenuous, it’s not recommended for those with back problems. Double-check your meal preference and parka size when booking.

With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy the stunning sunset and celestial views at Mauna Kea’s summit.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Guests rave about the expertise and engagement of the knowledgeable guides, who enhance the overall tour experience.

Highlights include the stunning sunset views from 9,000 feet and the awe-inspiring celestial observations through the private telescopes.

Guests emphasize the importance of staying warm due to the chilly temperatures at the summit, so the provided hooded parkas are essential.

Positive reviews praise the unique and unforgettable nature of the tour, with many travelers noting the exceptional commentary that brings the history, culture, and ecology of Hawaii to life.

The seamless logistics and small-group size contribute to the overwhelmingly positive guest feedback.

Booking Information

The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour is priced from $313.09 per person.

You can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. If you’re not ready to pay just yet, you can reserve your spot and pay later.

Given the tour’s popularity, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot. The tour is likely to sell out, so don’t wait too long.

Regardless of when you book, you’ll be in for an unforgettable stargazing adventure at the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Exploring the Mauna Kea Summit

Once you’ve booked your Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour, the real excitement begins.

Prepare for a thrilling 4×4 van ride up the dormant volcano’s slopes, marveling at the dramatic landscape.

Upon reaching the summit at 9,000 feet, you’ll be greeted by a stunning sunset over the Pacific.

As darkness falls, your guide will:

• Point out the evening’s celestial highlights through powerful telescopes
• Share insights into the indigenous Hawaiian culture and ecology of the region
• Serve a warm picnic dinner to fuel your stargazing experience
• Provide warm parkas and gloves to keep you comfortable in the chilly, high-altitude environment

The Stargazing Experience

What can you expect from the stargazing experience during the Mauna Kea Summit Adventure Tour?

After sunset, you’ll have a private stargazing show led by your knowledgeable guide. Using 11-inch Celestron telescopes, you’ll observe the night sky in crystal-clear detail.

Marvel at planets, distant galaxies, and other celestial wonders. Your guide will share insights into the history, culture, and ecology of Hawaii, enhancing the experience.

Savor hot cocoa and cookies as you gaze upwards, surrounded by the serene beauty of Mauna Kea. This is a truly awe-inspiring way to end an unforgettable adventure.

Highlights of the Tour

One of the highlights of the Mauna Kea Summit Adventure Tour is the stunning sunset view from 9,000 feet (2,743 meters) above sea level.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky erupts in a vibrant display of colors, casting a warm glow over the volcanic landscape.

After the sunset, your private stargazing session begins, offering a breathtaking glimpse into the cosmos.

The tour’s knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by sharing their expertise on the history, culture, and ecology of Hawaii.

The tour also includes:

• A warm picnic dinner
• Hot cocoa and cookies
• Use of 11" Celestron telescopes
• Complimentary hooded parkas for warmth

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like at the Mauna Kea Summit?

The Mauna Kea summit experiences very cold temperatures, often below freezing. You’ll need to dress warmly in layers, including the provided hooded parka, to stay comfortable during the stargazing portion of the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Telescope or Camera Equipment?

You can bring your own camera, but the tour provides private telescopes for stargazing. However, bringing additional equipment isn’t recommended as it may be difficult to transport and use at the summit’s cold, high-altitude conditions.

Is There Any Food or Drink Provided During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a warm picnic dinner, hot cocoa, and cookies. You don’t need to bring your own food or drinks – they’re provided to keep you nourished and warm during the stargazing experience at the Mauna Kea summit.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for those with physical disabilities that limit mobility. Guests must be able to walk about 150 yards with minimal assistance.

Can I Extend My Stay on the Big Island After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay on the Big Island after the tour. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so you’ll have the flexibility to continue exploring the island on your own schedule.

The Sum Up

The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour offers an unforgettable evening on the Big Island. From the scenic drive to the breathtaking sunset and private stargazing, this tour provides an intimate and educational experience. With knowledgeable guides and small group sizes, you’re sure to have a memorable night under the stars on Mauna Kea.