Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure Tickets in Kona, HI

The drive to the summit of Mauna Kea is one you'll never forget. It's hard to believe you're in Hawaii as you climb to 13,796 feet elevation above sea level. Once at the summit, you are afforded spectacular views of the horizon, Haleakala on Maui, Mauna Loa, Hualalai, and Mauna Kea's world-class array of telescopes. Mauna Kea is the world's tallest mountain, rising over 32,000 feet from the ocean floor to its summit, which is considered by many Hawaiians to be the most sacred place in all the islands.

Starting from their headquarters in Kona, you travel up the coast over desolate lava flows for about a half-hour before proceeding up the rolling pasturelands on the flanks of Mauna Kea. you arrive at the dinner location approximately 2 hours before sunset for a hot, picnic dinner served family-style. After dinner and with a winter-style parka in hand, you'll make the 45-minute drive to the summit. As you make your way up, you'll be fascinated by your Interpretive Guide's knowledge of Hawaii's remarkable natural, cultural, and geologic history.

After sunset, you descend to the Visitor's Information Station at 9000' elevation. Here you set up the telescope and have a stargazing party. Wrapped warmly in Arctic parkas, enjoying hot beverages and chocolate macadamia nut cookies, you will marvel at the brilliance of the Hawaiian night sky. Your Interpretive Guide will share with you stories of the world of the observable universe and offer you a personal and educational look at the heavens.

Please note: The tour time can change/fluctuate according to the time of the sunset.

Schedule:
Afternoon trips depart daily from Kona King Kamehameha Courtyard Marriott, Queen’s Marketplace in Waikoloa Beach Resort, and Paniolo Greens in Waikoloa Village. 7 to 8 hours round trip.

Included in the Tour:
Picnic-style dinner, assorted teas, hot chocolate, and dessert. Warm dinner selections of Beef Stew or Vegan Chili. Hot Chocolate and cookies are served for dessert.

Restrictions:
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. We sometimes encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions. Because of altitude, this tour is not advised for those with respiratory, circulatory, or heart conditions, pregnancy, or poor health. Scuba divers should be aware of altitude dangers. No children under 13. Other tour restrictions may apply.

What to bring and wear:
Reusable water bottles, closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a sweatshirt or sweater Winter parkas and gloves are provided.