Hilo/Waikoloa: Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour

The Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour presents a captivating opportunity for adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy the natural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island. Departing from either Hilo or Waikoloa, this comprehensive 6.5 to 7.5-hour excursion offers a unique chance to witness the breathtaking transition from day to night, as participants witness the sun dip below the horizon and the night sky come alive with a multitude of celestial bodies. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, guests will have the privilege of exploring the night sky through professional-grade telescopes, all while indulging in complimentary refreshments. With a focus on safety and a commitment to adapting to weather conditions, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on those seeking to enjoy the beauty and mystery of the Mauna Kea summit.

Key Points

• The Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour lasts 6.5 to 7.5 hours and departs from Hilo and Waikoloa for $269 per person.
• The tour includes transportation, snacks, hot beverages, and a professional guide, with pickup and drop-off at select locations.
• Participants will witness a stunning sunset and engage in stargazing activities using a professional telescope, with an educational experience about stars and planets.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or those with health issues, and restrictions apply for individuals who have dived within 24 hours.
• Summit access may be affected by weather conditions, and alternative stargazing locations may be visited in inclement weather, requiring flexibility from participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour offers visitors a captivating experience atop the highest point in the Pacific, providing a chance to witness a breathtaking sunset and engage in awe-inspiring stargazing activities.

Priced at $269 per person, this 6.5 to 7.5-hour tour departs from select locations in Hilo and Waikoloa and is conducted in English.

Guests can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and should note that availability is limited and the tour is likely to sell out.

Participants must be between the ages of 13 and 80, and the tour is not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues.

Location and Pricing

The Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour originates from select pickup locations in Hilo and Waikoloa, Hawaii, and is priced at $269 per person.

The tour departs from the Bank of Hawaii, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – a DoubleTree by Hilton, and Starbucks, with drop-off at the same locations. The tour duration ranges from 6.5 to 7.5 hours, and the experience is conducted in English.

Guests should note that weather conditions can change rapidly, and access to the summit may close without warning.

The tour includes transportation, snacks, hot beverages, a professional guide, and free night photography, making it an exceptional value for those seeking a memorable stargazing adventure on Mauna Kea.

Itinerary and Logistics

Starting locations for the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour include the Bank of Hawaii, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – a DoubleTree by Hilton, and Starbucks, with drop-off at the same locations.

Guests will be transported to the summit, where they can experience the picturesque sunset and stargazing activities, before being returned to their original pickup points.

Participants should be aware that weather conditions can change rapidly, and access to the summit may close without warning.

It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility or health issues. Plus, those who have dived within 24 hours prior are also not permitted to join the tour.

Weather and Summit Access

Conditions on Mauna Kea can often change rapidly, and access to the summit may occasionally close without warning, requiring tour operators to adjust itineraries accordingly.

The weather at the high elevation of Mauna Kea is unpredictable and can be significantly different from the conditions in the surrounding areas. Tour participants should be prepared for cool, wet, or even snowy conditions, as the summit sits above the clouds.

In the event of inclement weather or summit closures, the tour may need to be modified to visit alternative stargazing locations or focus more on the sunset viewing aspect of the experience.

Flexibility and understanding from guests is essential, as the safety and comfort of the group is the top priority.

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Highlight Experience

Despite the unpredictable nature of the weather and summit access, the Mauna Kea Sunset and Stargazing Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity for guests to witness the remarkable natural beauty and celestial wonders of this unique location.

Visitors are invited to experience a picturesque sunset from the summit of Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Pacific, and then embark on a captivating stargazing adventure.

During this immersive experience, participants can learn about the stars and planets, including the location where the first black hole photo was taken.

Plus, guests will have the chance to use a professional telescope to get an up-close view of the night sky, weather permitting.

Complementing the visual splendor are warm beverages and snacks, as well as free night photos taken by the knowledgeable guide.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Mauna Kea Sunset and Stargazing Tour includes a comprehensive suite of services and amenities to enhance the overall experience for participants.

This tour package includes pickup and drop-off at select locations, the provision of snacks and hot beverages, free night photography, a knowledgeable guide, and the necessary cold-weather gear such as parkas and gloves.

However, the tour is not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, those with mobility or health issues, or individuals who have dived within 24 hours prior.

Plus, non-folding wheelchairs, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted on the tour.

Participants must be able to walk on uneven terrain and withstand potentially cool, wet, or muddy conditions.

Participant Requirements

Typically, the Mauna Kea Sunset and Stargazing Tour is open to participants aged 13 to 80 years old, with those under 12 or over 81 years not permitted to join the experience.

Guests are required to wear comfortable shoes and long pants, as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain in potentially cool, wet, or muddy environments. Non-folding wheelchairs, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed on the tour.

It is important for participants to be aware of the physical requirements, as the tour involves hiking and exposure to potentially challenging weather conditions. Those with mobility or health issues, as well as pregnant women and individuals who have dived within 24 hours prior, are advised not to join this tour.

Customer Feedback Summary

Based on the 318 reviews analyzed, the Mauna Kea Sunset and Stargazing Tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Guests have particularly praised the informative and knowledgeable tour guides, awarding them a 4.9 out of 5 rating.

The transportation provided also received high marks, with a 4.8 out of 5 rating.

While the value for money was still positively rated at 4.5 out of 5, some guests noted concerns regarding the quality of the telescopes used and the challenges presented by the cold conditions during the stargazing portion of the tour.

Key customer feedback highlights include:

1. Highly knowledgeable and engaging tour guides

2. Impressive sunset views from the Mauna Kea summit

3. Concerns about telescope quality and cold weather during stargazing

4. Overall excellent value for money

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour overview does not mention any opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the tour. The focus appears to be on the sunset viewing, stargazing, and telescope experience. There is no indication that there will be time set aside for souvenir shopping.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Cameras and Tripods for Photography?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own cameras and tripods for photography during the tour. This allows them to capture the stunning sunset and stargazing experiences from Mauna Kea as they prefer. Appropriate photography equipment is encouraged to maximize the visual memories of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for seniors aged 65 and above, as well as for students with valid student ID. These discounts are typically 10-15% off the regular tour price and must be requested at the time of booking.

How Many People Typically Participate in Each Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from 12 to 22 participants, providing an intimate experience with ample access to the guide and equipment. Exact group sizes may vary depending on demand and logistical considerations for each departure.

Is It Possible to Request Specific Dietary Accommodations or Food Allergies?

While the tour does not explicitly mention dietary accommodations, guests with specific dietary requirements or food allergies are encouraged to contact the tour operator in advance. The operator may be able to accommodate certain needs or provide alternative options.

Recap

The Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the island’s natural wonders.

With the guidance of knowledgeable professionals, participants can enjoy a captivating sunset, explore the night sky through telescopes, and savor complimentary refreshments.

Though weather conditions may impact the itinerary, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for individuals aged 13 to 80.

You can check if your dates are available here: