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Big Island Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing

5.0(73)Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 73 reviews9 hFree cancellationBy Taikobo Hawaii
Big Island Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing

About this activity

Experience the magic of Mauna Kea at nearly 14,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean.

Watch a breathtaking sunset from the summit, then enjoy expert-led stargazing with a professional telescope in one of the world’s best night-sky locations.

This small-group tour has been operated continuously since 1989 by a trusted, fully permitted local company. Travel in luxury 4WD vans with professionally trained guides who prioritize safety, comfort, and personalized service.

Learn about the cultural significance of Mauna Kea and the wonders of the universe—where ancient Hawaiians believed the Earth meets the heavens.

Heavy-duty parkas, local snacks, and hot chocolate are included. Convenient pickups in Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa Beach Resort.

What's included

  • ✓A required $20/person passenger fee for the Center for Maunakea Stewardship (University of Hawaiʻi) to support the care and preservation of the mountain's natural and cultural resources.
  • ✓Private stargazing with a professional telescope
  • ✓Heavy-duty hooded parka (If you need an XL parka, please request the quantity at booking.)
  • ✓All local snacks. Hot chocolate is served during the stargazing.

Not included

  • ✕Please bring your own warm layers—sweater/hoodie, warm socks, beanie, and gloves.
  • ✕Must wear toe closed shoes and long pants.
  • ✕Bring your own water. Drinking water will reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
  • ✕Tips for your guide are greatly appreciated.

Meeting and pickup

  • Meet us at the shuttle bus stop by the curb in the back side of the Queen's Marketplace in Waikoloa Beach Resort. Look for the large yellow sunshade umbrellas as a landmark. ⭐⭐⭐IMPORTANT: Please contact us for your pickup time
  • Meet us at our office in Kailua-Kona. Located between Kona International Airport and downtown Kona, just off Route 19 near Costco.

Good to know

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • The tour may be canceled before departure due to weather or road closures. If that happens, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.
  • If unfavorable weather conditions, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances prevent us from reaching the summit after the tour has begun, a 50% refund of the tour price will be issued, excluding the non-refundable $20 Mauna Kea Passenger Fee. If we reach the summit but weather conditions prevent us from conducting the stargazing portion of the tour, we’ll issue a $50 refund per guest. and prevent us from reaching the summit, you’ll receive a 50% refund of the tour price, excluding the non-refundable $20 Mauna Kea Passenger Fee. If we reach the summit but weather conditions prevent us from conducting the stargazing portion of the tour, we’ll issue a $50 refund per guest.
  • Alcohol beverages are not allowed.
  • Drunk or intoxicated guests are not allowed.
  • A minimum of 3 guests is required to hold a tour. If we have fewer than 3 bookings 24 hours before departure, the tour will be canceled unless existing guests choose to pay the difference.
  • Pets, including service animals, are not allowed to ensure the comfort and safety of guests with allergies or animal phobias.
  • No meals are included. Please eat a full meal before the tour. We do provide some nice local snacks.
  • If a guest becomes ill or injured and cannot continue, the group may need to adjust the itinerary. Anyone leaving the tour must be accompanied by a companion (if applicable) and arrange their own return transportation at their own expense.
  • If you need an XL parka, please request the quantity at booking.
  • Age restriction: 13-80 yrs old (Guests ages 13–17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
  • Guests with heart conditions, lung disease, or serious medical issues are not allowed.
  • Pregnant guests are not allowed.
  • Guests who have been scuba diving within 24 hours are not allowed.
  • Severely obese guests (BMI over 40.0) are not allowed.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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