【Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour on the Big Island 】Stargazing at 2,800 Meters at Hawaii's Mauna Kea Observatory | 4,300-meter Summit for Sunset and Stargazing | Hilo Pick-up + Dinner (Light Meal)

(5 Reviews)
Product Code: 48372

OVERVIEW

Highlights

    • Chinese or English tours are available, with the option to reach the summit at 4,300 meters to watch the sunset and stargaze.
    • Astronomy Observation: Recognized worldwide as a premier astronomical observation point, home to 13 international observatories.
    • World Summit: Upgrade your experience to ascend to the world's highest peak at 4,300 meters, where you can enjoy the sunset, stargazing, and scenic snow views.
    • Suitable for independent travelers or semi-independent travelers who want to chase the stars.
Tour Code
48372
Duration
5 hour
Departure City
Big Island
End City
Big Island
Tour Type
Sightseeing Tours
Language
Chinese, English
Available options

IS THIS TOUR FOR ME?

Tour Themes: Natural Landscapes

Natural beauty, scenic views.

Itinerary

Mauna Kea Volcano
Snow in Hawaii?! Yes, it does snow in Hawaii. In winter, you can see the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea, standing at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters), which is the tallest mountain in the Pacific. Gazing at the twinkling stars or visiting the summit of Mauna Kea is just one of the many surprising adventures you can experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The tour picks up guests from the Hilo hotel area for the Mauna Kea & Stargazing tour. After more than an hour's drive, we first stop at a 7,000-foot rest area for dinner. Due to the high altitude, adjustments will be made locally before heading to the breathtaking sunset view at 14,000 feet (4,300 meters).
Mauna Kea is home to 13 of the world's astronomical observatories and is recognized as one of the best stargazing locations globally. Since its establishment in 1968, it has made groundbreaking advancements in the study of star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, supernovae, and black holes.
You will visit the astronomical complex and learn about the ongoing research of our cosmic wonders. Due to the high altitude and low temperatures, the U.S. federal government requires all visitors to descend after sunset. The tour company will drive you to a location near the visitor center (at an elevation of 7,000-9,000 feet) to continue enjoying the starry sky while providing 11-inch telescopes and hot beverages.
You will return to the hotel around 9 PM.
     

Itinerary Options
English Tour: Sunset Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Summit (4,300 meters) (Participants must be 16 years or older)
Pick-up from designated hotels in the Hilo area (limited to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Grand Naniloa Hotel)
Chinese Tour: Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Visitor Center (2,800 meters) (Children ages 4-11, Adults 12 years and older)
This tour only goes to the visitor center, not to the summit.
Pick-up from designated hotels in the Hilo area (limited to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Grand Naniloa Hotel)
Schedule
Mauna Kea & Stargazing Tour Pick-Up Timetable (The pick-up time varies with sunset time; please refer to the final confirmed time)

English Tour Sunset Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Summit (approximately 6 hours)
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Pick-up and departure. (Summer pick-up at 3-4 PM, Winter pick-up at 2-3 PM)
6:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Visit the Onizuka International Observatory Center at Mauna Kea.
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Enjoy a light dinner (at the visitor center).
7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Drive to the summit at 4,300 meters to enjoy the sunset.
8:00 PM - 8:45 PM: Begin stargazing and learn about astronomy; stargazing photography. (Adjustments may be made based on weather conditions).
9:00 PM: Return.
Chinese Tour Stargazing Tour at Mauna Kea Visitor Center (approximately 5 hours)
5:15 PM - 5:30 PM: Gather for departure (Summer pick-up at 4-5 PM, Winter pick-up at 3-4 PM)
7:00 PM: Arrive at the Mauna Kea Visitor Center at 2,800 meters.
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Enjoy a light dinner (boxed meal).
7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Start stargazing and learn about astronomy; English commentary for about 45 minutes.
8:00 PM - 8:45 PM: Free time for stargazing and photography. (Adjustments may be made based on weather conditions).
9:00 PM: Return to the hotel.
Special Notes
1) Since the stargazing occurs at elevations above 3,000 meters, the weather on the mountain can change rapidly, and forecasts may not be accurate. Therefore, we cannot provide refunds if stars are not visible due to weather conditions.
2) Guests need to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. Conditions may include cold waves, dampness, or mud in high-altitude areas. Due to the high altitude, participation is not recommended for those with breathing, circulation, or heart conditions, pregnant individuals, or those in poor health. Divers should be aware of altitude-related dangers.
3) Children under 16 years old cannot participate. Other travel restrictions may apply to the remaining guests. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a sweatshirt or sweater are required. Each guest must honestly inform us of their health condition and understand their own physical situation; we cannot make judgments regarding altitude adaptation for you.
4) All adults are responsible for their final decisions, and for children under 18, adults must make the judgment and take responsibility for them.

Tips:
Note: Sunset Schedule for the Entire Year
January: 5:54 PM - 6:10 PM
February: 6:14 PM - 6:26 PM
March: 6:27 PM - 6:35 PM
April: 6:36 PM - 6:44 PM
May: 6:45 PM - 6:57 PM
June: 6:57 PM - 7:04 PM
July: 6:59 PM - 7:05 PM
August: 6:38 PM - 6:58 PM
September: 6:10 PM - 6:38 PM
October: 5:48 PM - 6:09 PM
November: 5:41 PM - 5:47 PM
December: 5:53 PM - 5:41 PM

Meeting Point

Search for your nearest pickup point
Time Region Location Full Address
02:55PM Hilo Area Hilo Hawaiian Hotel - 71 Banyan Dr

Due to the varying sunset times, the pick-up time will also change. Please refer to the final confirmed time.

Hilo, HI 96720, USA
03:00PM Hilo Area Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a DoubleTree by Hilton

Due to the varying sunset times, the pick-up time will also change. Please refer to the final confirmed time.

93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720, USA

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Package Includes

    • Free pick-up and drop-off service for hotels in the Hilo area (limited to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Grand Naniloa Hotel)
    • Professional Chinese or English-speaking guide
    • Warm clothing
    • Chinese tours include a bento box; English tours include a light meal and water

Package Excludes

    • Airfare not included
    • All personal expenses
    • Service fee for the guide and driver not included: $12.00 per person per day

Special Notes

    • Minimum booking of 2 people.
    • 4300-meter Maunakea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour: Open to participants aged 16 and above (inclusive), conducted in English; 2800-meter Maunakea Visitor Center Stargazing Tour: Open to participants aged 4 and above (inclusive), conducted in Chinese.
    • Due to the high altitude of this tour, please follow the guide's instructions and avoid playing or roughhousing during the trip to prevent altitude sickness and ensure your personal safety!
    • For this itinerary, we will provide you with a professional driver-guide (if a 38-seat bus is arranged for the day, we will ensure a professional driver and guide service).
    • Chinese tour/English tour - The language used by the driver-guide will be Chinese/English, suitable for independent and semi-independent travelers.
    • Please do not participate in snorkeling activities the day before the trip, and avoid diving within 24 hours after the tour. Pregnant women and individuals with heart conditions are prohibited from participating in this activity.
    • On the day of the tour, please bring sunscreen and wear long-sleeve clothing. Thicker clothing will be provided free of charge at the site. To protect the natural environment, there will be a daily limit on the number of people allowed to ascend, please be aware.
    • If the English tour company adjusts the pick-up time at the last minute and the guests do not confirm in advance, Tufeng will not be held responsible for any delays in the itinerary.
    • Due to the shared vehicle service, the pick-up vehicle will only wait for a maximum of 10 minutes at each hotel, so please arrive at the lobby early based on the confirmed pick-up time.
    • This itinerary should be booked at least 7 days in advance.
    • Please bring a printed voucher for the tour.
    • If Tufeng has not sent you a voucher, it will be directly sent to the activity provider, and you may participate with just your passport.
    • We provide free pick-up and drop-off service for the Hilo area, limited to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Grand Naniloa Hotel. When you place an order online, please select your hotel, and we will provide you with the specific pick-up time when we send you the electronic ticket.
    • Hawaii has a tropical oceanic climate with generally high temperatures and long sunshine hours, so please be mindful of sun protection.
    • To ensure the safety of your personal belongings, we recommend that you carry your valuables with you during your trip and not leave them on the bus, at the hotel, at attractions, or in restaurants. In the event of theft under any circumstances and at any location, resulting in personal property loss, Tufeng, local travel agencies, and drivers, as well as tour guides, will not be responsible. Thank you for your understanding.

Cancellation Policy

Please see the Available Options section above for any details about cancellation policies.

Pricing Info

Your reservation is always subject to confirmation by email, normally within one to two business days.

*Adult price applies to ages 12 and above; child price applies to ages 4 to 12 (exclusive).

Reservation Info

    1.Immediately after submitting your reservation you will receive a Receipt of Reservation via email.
    2. Within one to two business days of submitting your reservation you will receive a status update email from us. If you need to book an airline ticket, we recommend that you do so after you receive a confirmation of your tour reservation from us.
    3. An E-Ticket will be sent to you via email as soon as details of your reservation are confirmed or your supporting information is received by us. We will provide you with all detailed information about your tour on the E-Ticket. Contact information for local tour provider will be included on E-Ticket for your convenience or re-confirmation purpose if re-confirmation is required.
    4. Simply print your E-Ticket and present it with your valid photo ID on the day of your activity to your tour guide. Please remember E-Ticket is your proof of purchase.

Terms and Conditions

    - Your purchase does not guarantee confirmation. Your purchase will initiate a reservation process. We will confirm with you via email within one to two business days.
    - Prices may vary due to availability. We reserve the right to make price adjustment without prior notice.
    - Please refer to our Standard Amendment, Cancellation and Refund Policy before you make reservation.
    - Please refer to Customer Agreement before you make reservation.
    - Local tour provider reserves the right to make modifications to tour arrangements including order of tour activities, hotel and its location if deemed necessary.

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