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Home/USA/Hawaii/Big Island of Hawaii/Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory

Mauna Kea Summit & Observatory: Ultimate Stargazing Guide

Embark on an unforgettable astronomical journey to the Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory, the world's premier destination for stargazing on the Big Island of Hawaii. Witness breathtaking sunset tours above the clouds before diving into a cosmic adventure under the clearest night skies on Earth. Whether you are seeking expert-guided astronomy tours, stunning volcanic landscapes, or a once-in-a-lifetime celestial experience, our curated excursions offer everything from professional equipment to cozy jacket rentals. Book your Mauna Kea adventure today to experience the magic of Hawaii's highest peak and witness the universe like never before.

4.4/5 avg ratingFrom $289 per person5,000+ verified reviewsGuided astronomy tours

At a glance

Tour Price

Tour Price

$289–$432 typical

Median price is $310

Rating

Rating

4.43★ average

Based on 5,001 pooled reviews

Tour Length

Tour Length

6.6–8 hours typical

Median duration is 8 hours

Best For

Best For

Nature & Stargazing

Nature is a 100% theme, Stargazing is 75% of options

Booking Tip

Booking Tip

Likely to sell out

50% of tours are flagged as high demand

Languages

Languages

8 languages offered

Includes EN, DE, ES, FR, IT, JA, KO, and ZH

9 Products

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

8 hrsFree cancellation
4.85 (1,674 reviews)
90.44%
9.56%
more starsamazing experiencevery knowledgeable
Viator
$330
Book now
View Details
Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
Summary

Head to the Mauna Kea Observatory, nestled high in the mountains of the Big Island, and experience an intriguing and provocative journey through space and time. Discover Hawaii from the top of the island's tallest peak, Mauna Kea, also known as 'White Mountain,' located 13,796 feet (4,200 meters) ab...

Inclusions
  • Private star show with telescope
  • Hooded parkas and gloves
  • Central Meeting Locations for Pick-up & Drop off
  • Hot cocoa and cookies
  • Local taxes
  • Guide
  • Pick-up & Dropoff from Central Meeting Locations
Exclusions
  • Private Tour
Itinerary
  • Maunakea Visitor Information Station
  • Mauna Kea Summit
  • Maunakea Visitor Information Station
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for pregnant travelers, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Minimum age is 13 years - No children under 13., Due to the high altitude, this tour is not suitable for those with respiratory, circulatory or heart conditions, pregnancy, or poor health., Scuba divers should be aware of altitude dangers. If you plan to scuba dive, do not plan to go to the summit within 24 hours after you dive due to the altitude., Guests are required to wear closed-toed shoe and long pants. We recommend bringing a sweatshirt or sweater for layering., Please provide your parka size (small, medium, large, x-large or xx-large) and meal choice at the time of booking. If you do not indicate this at the time of booking, you will need to contact the tour operator directly., There is minimal walking on this tour, the maximum being about 150 yards. Please note we are unable to accommodate any guests with a collapsible wheelchair. All guests must be able to enter and exit our vehicles on their own, and walk comfortably on uneven terrain with limited lighting on their own., The access road to Mauna Kea is four-wheel drive only, so it can be bumpy. The custom off-road transit vans will get you to the top and back in safety and comfort. The transit vans can carry a maximum of 12 passengers, Snow is seasonal at Maunakea, with the heaviest snowfall occurring during the winter months, Please note your scheduled pick-up time may differ from the tour start time displayed online. Contact us to confirm your meeting time & location., Weather changes can occur quickly, and the access road to the summit can close without warning; therefore we cannot guarantee access to the summit or favorable conditions., No scuba diving within 24 hours
Cancellation Policy

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

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo

8 hrsFree cancellation
4.8 (1,789 reviews)
91.24%
8.76%
Great experiencegreat guideamazing
Viator
$290
Book now
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Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo
Summary

We will take you to the summit of Mauna Kea to see the sunset and we will do stargazing afterward (not at the summit). Our most unique part is that our guides will take the photo of the sunset and stars for you using their DSLR camera. All photos are free of charge and you will get it to your smart...

Inclusions
  • Snow parker
  • An astronomical telescope
  • Mauna Kea Summit Tour
  • Admission Fee for Mauna Kea
  • Free DSLR camera photo of stars with you in it! (weather and moon phase permitting))
  • 4x4 Passenger Van to the summit
Exclusions
  • Hotel pick-up and drop off
  • Private Tour
Itinerary
  • Kailua-Kona
  • Onizuka Astronomy Complex
  • Mauna Kea Summit
  • Onizuka Astronomy Complex
  • Kailua-Kona
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for pregnant travelers, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Please check the message on Viator. We will send a message about pick up time and location after the confirmation of your booking., Please note that pick up location has a free parking lot but we do not take any responsibility or liability for any damage or loss caused through the parking, Please note that in times of bad weather sunset or stargazing are not 100% guaranteed and moonphase will affect the visibility of the stars., Please note that, depending on any guests get altitude sickness or other conditions, the time spent at the summit and the stargazing location may be adjusted., Guest under 16 years old or older than 75 cannot participate, Not recommended for person weight more than 300lb, Not recommended for person having respiratory problem such as asthma, Guest under 16 years old or older than 75 cannot participate
Cancellation Policy

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

Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars

Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars

8 hrsFree cancellation
4.8 (1,881 reviews)
88.65%
11.35%
amazingamazing experiencestar gazing
Viator
$289
Book now
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Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars
Summary

Delight in the awe-inspiring sunset at the top of Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Pacific. Your guide will share historic accounts of the Big Island. Stand amidst the world’s largest collection of research telescopes. Two of the eight telescopes which took the first photos of the black hole a...

Inclusions
  • Experienced tour guide
  • FREE night photo with our professional camera
  • Snacks and a hot beverage
  • Jackets and gloves to keep you warm
  • Transportation in a comfortable 4X4 van
  • Professional telescope (Weather Permitting)
Exclusions
  • Dinner (Travelers may bring their own)
  • Private Tour
Itinerary
  • Mauna Kea Summit
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Weather can change rapidly (snow, fog, 120+ mph winds are possible year-round), Road closures may occur due to ice, snow, poor visibility, strong winds, or safety conditions, No smoking, alcohol, or illegal drugs at any time., Please respect the mountain — leave no trash behind., Not allowed for travelers under 13 years old, Not allowed for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions, Not allowed for pregnant travelers
Cancellation Policy

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

The Original Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour-Since 1983

The Original Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour-Since 1983

8 hrsFree cancellation
4.71 (685 reviews)
Viator
$335
Book now
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The Original Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour-Since 1983
Summary

The original Mauna Kea sunset and stargazing tour. We pioneered this experience in 1983 and have been on this mountain longer than just about anyone. Ride from the coast to nearly 14,000 feet in custom 4x4 Mercedes Sprinters with panoramic windows and coach seating in rows of two and three (nobody ...

Inclusions
  • About 2 hours of guided stargazing with 11-inch Celestron telescopes and green-laser sky tour
  • Arctic-style hooded parkas and gloves
  • Hot dinner at 9,200 ft: 3-cheese vegetable lasagna and a homemade brownie
  • Pickup & drop-off: Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa Beach, Waikoloa Village, or Maunakea Visitor Station
  • Custom 4×4 Mercedes Sprinter with coach seating in rows of two and three (no four-across benches)
  • Professional guide, fully narrated
Exclusions
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (meet at a designated pickup point)
  • Gratuities (optional)
Itinerary
  • Saddle Road
  • Maunakea Visitor Information Station
  • Mauna Kea Summit
  • Mauna Kea Observatories
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed, All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Minimum age is 13 years, Travelers with a BMI of 40 or higher are not permitted, No scuba diving within 24 hours before the tour, Pants and closed-toe shoes required; parkas and gloves provided, Pickup times vary throughout the year with sunset, The summit is nearly 14,000 feet, with 40% less oxygen than sea level, Emergency response on the mountain can take about 2 hours, and a medical incident may end the tour for everyone on board, The mountain road is long and bumpy and may not be suitable for travelers with back injuries, Summit temperatures average around 30°F with frequent wind; parkas and gloves are provided, Dinner is vegetarian lasagna; guests with dietary restrictions may bring their own food, Pickup times vary by location and season and are confirmed after booking, This tour returns late at night, Tours may be canceled due to weather or road closures; stargazing depends on natural conditions and is not guaranteed, Not permitted for pregnant travelers, Not permitted for travelers with any history of heart problems, including surgery, stents, pacemakers, or arrhythmias, Not permitted for travelers with COPD, emphysema, lung conditions or surgeries, or pneumonia or RSV within the past 6 months, Asthma must be fully controlled, and travelers must bring their inhaler
Cancellation Policy

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

Big Island Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing

Big Island Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing

9 hrsFree cancellation
4.99 (70 reviews)
93.48%
6.52%
Excellent tourJust Amazing!!!Great experience
Viator
$320
Book now
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Big Island Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing
Summary

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 ...

Inclusions
  • Private stargazing with a professional telescope
  • Heavy-duty hooded parka (If you need an XL parka, please request the quantity at booking.)
Exclusions
  • Please bring your own warm layers—sweater/hoodie, warm socks, beanie, and gloves.
  • Must wear toe closed shoes and long pants.
Itinerary
  • Maunakea Visitor Information Station
  • Mauna Kea Summit
  • Mauna Kea
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 the weather turns unfavorable during the tour, we’ll still do our best to provide a great experience. If we cannot reach the summit due to road closures or other unforeseen issues, you’ll receive a full refund or credit., 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., A cup of hot chocolate will be served during the stargazing., 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.

From Big Island Hilo - Enchanting Mauna Kea & Waterfalls Tour

From Big Island Hilo - Enchanting Mauna Kea & Waterfalls Tour

6 hrsFree cancellation
3.29 (7 reviews)
64.91%
35.09%
Great viewsenjoyedexcellent journey
Viator
$450
Book now
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From Big Island Hilo - Enchanting Mauna Kea & Waterfalls Tour
Summary

The travelers will be safe on the whole tour and will be provided with bottled water. They don't need to pay any taxes or fees because everything will be paid by us. You can stop anywhere for photos and pictures of the scenic drive.

Inclusions
  • All Fees and Taxes
Itinerary
  • Rainbow Falls
  • Onizuka Astronomy Complex
  • Mauna Kea Summit
  • Hilo
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

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

Big Island Waterfall Wonders Slingshot Private Tour

Big Island Waterfall Wonders Slingshot Private Tour

8 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
3.5 (2 reviews)
55.56%
44.44%
GPS issuesfun car
Viator
$329
Book now
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Big Island Waterfall Wonders Slingshot Private Tour
Summary

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Big Island Waterfall Wonders Tour! This tour takes you on a breathtaking journey, starting with a trek to the east side of the island on New Saddle Road. For the performance-minded, you can take Old Saddle Road, the rollercoaster of Big Island, where yo...

Inclusions
  • Use of a Polaris Slingshot vehicle for the rental period
  • Helmets provided for all riders
  • Pre-loaded, self-guided navigation tour
Exclusions
  • A fully refundable security deposit of $750 or $1,500 is required at the time of rental pickup.
Itinerary
  • Saddle Road
  • Mauna Kea Observatories
  • Rainbow Falls
  • Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
  • Akaka Falls State Park
  • Umauma Falls
  • Waipio Valley Lookout
  • Waimea
Good to know
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels, On this tour you will be driving a Polaris Slingshot to each of the points of interest. The time listed at each stopping point is an average of time spent. You have the Slingshot for a full 8 hours so you can complete the tour at your own pace., Driver must have a valid driver's license from any country and be 21+ years old for insurance. Passengers of any age must be able to securely sit in the seat.
Cancellation Policy

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

Big Island Volcano Run Slingshot Tour

Big Island Volcano Run Slingshot Tour

1 dayPrivate tourFree cancellation
0
Viator
$420
Book now
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Big Island Volcano Run Slingshot Tour
Summary

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park with our Big Island Volcano Run Slingshot Tour! This full-day adventure offers you the opportunity to drive through the 323,000 acres of this unique park, home to the only active volcanoes in the Hawaiian Islands. I...

Inclusions
  • Use of a Polaris Slingshot vehicle for the rental period
  • Helmets provided for all riders
  • Pre-loaded, self-guided navigation tour
Itinerary
  • South Point Complex
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
  • Rainbow Falls
  • Mauna Kea Observatories
Good to know
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels, On this tour you will be driving a Polaris Slingshot to each of the points of interest. The time listed at each stopping point is an average of time spent. You have the Slingshot for a full 24 hours so you can complete the tour at your own pace., Driver must have a valid driver's license from any country and be 21+ years old for insurance. Passengers of any age must be able to securely sit in the seat., A fully refundable security deposit of $750 or $1,500 is required at the time of rental pickup.
Cancellation Policy

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

Kilauea Volcano Eruption 105 Min Helicopter Tour Doors Off or On

Kilauea Volcano Eruption 105 Min Helicopter Tour Doors Off or On

1.8 hrsFree cancellation
0
Viator
$1,180
Book now
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Kilauea Volcano Eruption 105 Min Helicopter Tour Doors Off or On
Summary

Experience the ultimate Big Island adventure as you journey to the fiery heart of Hawaiʻi’s volcanic landscape. This unforgettable aerial tour takes you across the island’s most breathtaking scenery — from crystal-clear coastlines and cascading waterfalls to the commanding presence of active volcano...

Inclusions
  • Phone Strap
Itinerary
  • Kailua-Kona
  • Kona Coast State Park
  • Hualalai
  • Mauna Loa
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
  • Kilauea Volcano
  • Mauna Kea Summit
  • Hamakua Coast
  • Waipi'o Valley
  • Pololu Valley
  • Kohala Coast
  • Pu'u Wa'awa'a Forest Reserve
  • Kiholo Bay
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Wheelchair accessible, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, For each guest weighing 250 pounds or more, a weight and balance fee is required to safely balance the aircraft. For guests weighing between 250-274 lbs, a fee in the amount of 50% of the seat price will be assessed after booking. For guests weighing 275 lbs or higher, an additional seat purchase will be assessed after booking., All passengers 24 months (2 years) and older must purchase a full fare seat., Safety of flight is our primary concern. The operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or appear to be intoxicated. Intoxicated passengers will not fly and they will be charged in full., When booking the doors off experience, your seat may or may not be directly adjacent to an open door., For doors off tours, jackets and/or sweatshirts, closed toe shoes, and hair ties are required. Long pants are recommended.
Cancellation Policy

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

Pairs well with

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Saddle Road (Hawaii Route 200)19.2kmHamakua Coast28.5kmWaimea28.6kmParker Ranch28.9kmWaipio Valley31.8kmAkaka Falls32.8kmKohala36.6kmKohala Coast37.4kmKulaniapia Falls37.8kmPe'epe'e Falls38.5kmBoiling Pots38.7kmHawaii Tropical Botanical Garden39.5km
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