Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks. Guests embark on a thrilling journey to the summit of the island’s tallest volcano, where they are treated to a breathtaking sunset, a private stargazing session, and a delightful picnic-style dinner. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, visitors explore the rich history and ecology of this remarkable region, gaining a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural wonders. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this small-group tour promises an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Just The Basics

• The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour offers a unique stargazing experience at the 9,000-foot summit of Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s tallest mountain.
• The tour includes a pre-trip picnic, a 4×4 van ride to the summit, a sunset view, and a private stargazing session with a telescope.
• Participants will be provided with complimentary hooded parkas and served hot chocolate, dessert, and guided by a knowledgeable local during the experience.
• The tour caters to a minimum age requirement of 13 years and is not suitable for wheelchair users or scuba divers.
• The tour is weather-dependent and subject to cancellation or rescheduling, with a full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This small-group adventure tour allows visitors to experience the stunning stargazing opportunities at the summit of Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s tallest volcano.

The tour includes a pre-trip picnic and a ride in a 4×4 luxury van to the summit at 9,000 feet.

Guests will enjoy a sunset view and a private stargazing session with a telescope, as well as hot chocolate, dessert, and guidance from a knowledgeable local guide.

Along the way, the guide shares insights into Hawaii’s rich history, culture, and ecology.

The tour also provides complimentary hooded parkas to keep visitors warm during the stargazing experience.

Included in the Tour

The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the stargazing experience. Travelers will be provided with a guide, hooded parkas, and gloves to keep them warm on the summit.

A hot picnic-style dinner and hot cocoa will be served, along with cookies for dessert. The tour also includes a private star show with a telescope, allowing participants to get an up-close look at the night sky.

Local taxes and gratuities are covered, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. These inclusions aim to make the stargazing adventure on Mauna Kea both comfortable and memorable for all participants.

What to Expect

Participants will travel to the summit of Mauna Kea in a 4-wheel-drive van, allowing them to reach the high elevation of 9,000 feet with ease.

At the Maunakea Visitor Information Station, they’ll enjoy a warm picnic-style dinner before taking in the stunning sunset view.

After dinner, the guide will share their insights on Hawaii’s history, culture, and ecology during the star-gazing session.

Guests will marvel at the clear night sky through a private telescope, accompanied by hot cocoa and cookies.

The experience is designed to be comfortable, with the provided hooded parkas keeping everyone warm throughout the adventure.

The tour includes:

1. Scenic drive to the summit in a 4×4 van
2. Picnic-style dinner at the Visitor Information Station
3. Sunset view and stargazing with a private telescope
4. Commentary from a knowledgeable guide on Hawaii’s natural and cultural heritage

Additional Information

Confirmation of booking is received immediately after the reservation is made. Participants must meet the minimum age requirement of 13 years. Individuals with certain health conditions should exercise caution, as the tour may not be suitable for them. The experience is not wheelchair accessible. Scuba divers should take necessary precautions.

Dress Code	Accessories	Medical Conditions	Accessibility
Closed-toe shoes	Water bottles	Not recommended for some	Not wheelchair accessible
Long pants		Scuba divers should be cautious

The tour requires limited walking, so it may not be suitable for visitors with some medical conditions. Participants are advised to dress warmly, wearing closed-toe shoes and long pants, and to bring water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the experience.

Cancellation Policy

Full refunds are provided if the tour is canceled at least 24 hours in advance. However, no refunds are issued for cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure.

As the experience is weather-dependent, it may be subject to cancellation or rescheduling. The tour also requires a minimum number of participants to operate.

The cancellation policy includes:

1. Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
2. No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before.
3. Weather-dependent experience.
4. Minimum number of travelers required for the tour.

Plus, the company offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour may not be suitable for everyone. Certain health conditions and accessibility needs should be considered before booking.

For instance, scuba divers need to exercise caution, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Participants should wear closed-toe shoes and long pants, and bring water bottles.

Plus, the tour involves limited walking, which may not be recommended for those with specific medical conditions. The minimum age requirement is 13 years, and the experience is weather-dependent.

Travelers should note that a minimum number of participants is required for the tour to operate. However, the experience offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.

Highlights of the Tour

The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour offers an unparalleled stargazing experience atop the volcanic peak, complemented by a picnic-style dinner and guided insights into Hawaii’s rich history, culture, and ecology.

Key highlights of this tour include:

1. Riding in a luxurious 4×4 van to the summit of Mauna Kea at 9,000 feet for a breathtaking sunset view.

2. Enjoying a private star show with a high-powered telescope, sipping hot cocoa and indulging in delectable cookies.

3. Receiving a complimentary hooded parka to stay warm during the chilly evening hours.

4. Learning about the fascinating history, culture, and unique ecosystem of the island from an expert guide.

This small-group adventure promises an unforgettable evening under the stars in one of Hawaii’s most captivating natural wonders.

Getting to the Summit

Guests embark on a 4×4 luxury van journey to the summit of Mauna Kea, reaching an awe-inspiring elevation of 9,000 feet.

The comfortable van navigates the winding roads, offering breathtaking views of the Hawaiian landscape.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the region’s history, culture, and ecology, enhancing the experience.

As the vehicle climbs higher, the temperature drops, and the air becomes thinner, making the arrival at the summit all the more rewarding.

Guests disembark and take in the stunning sunset, setting the stage for an unforgettable stargazing session.

With the aid of a high-powered telescope, they explore the night sky, marveling at the twinkling stars and the vastness of the universe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Telescope?

You cannot bring your own telescope on this tour. The tour includes a private star show with a telescope provided by the guides, so additional telescopes are not permitted to ensure a seamless and enjoyable stargazing experience for all participants.

How Much Time Is Spent at the Summit?

The tour typically spends around 1-2 hours at the summit of Mauna Kea. Visitors will have time to take in the sunset view and participate in the guided stargazing session with a telescope before heading back down the mountain.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Package?

There’s no mention of any upgrade options for this tour package. The tour includes key components like a guided stargazing experience, picnic dinner, and transportation – indicating the package is comprehensive as described.

Can I Choose the Time of the Tour?

The tour schedule is fixed, as it’s dependent on the sunset and stargazing experience. Guests can’t choose the departure time, but the tour operator give you the optimal timing for the stargazing activity.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

Yes, there are age restrictions for this tour. The minimum age is 13 years old. The tour may not be suitable for certain health conditions, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Sum Up

The Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii’s night sky from atop the island’s tallest volcano.

With a knowledgeable guide, guests enjoy a sunset view, private stargazing, and a picnic-style dinner, all while learning about the region’s rich history and culture.

This tour is a must-experience for anyone seeking an exceptional stargazing adventure in the heart of the Hawaiian Islands.