Hilo/Waikoloa: Mauna Kea Summit Sunset And Stargazing Tour

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour offers a unique opportunity to witness nature’s spectacle unfold. But the magic doesn’t end there. Imagine gazing up at a blanket of stars, feeling a sense of wonder as you explore the wonders of the universe through powerful telescopes. This tour promises an unforgettable experience under the twinkling night sky, leaving visitors with memories to cherish long after the journey is over.

Key Points

Witness mesmerizing sunset and stargazing views atop Mauna Kea Summit.
Enjoy snacks, hot chocolate, parkas, gloves, and a guide.
Visit a black hole photo location for a unique experience.
Engage in stargazing with professional telescopes (Weather Permitting).
Capture night sky moments hassle-free with a private star show.

Tour Overview

Embark on the exciting Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour to witness the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii’s night sky and learn about a unique celestial experience.

This tour offers a 6.5 to 7.5-hour adventure filled with awe-inspiring moments. The journey begins at select locations such as Bank of Hawaii, Starbucks, or Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, leading to the majestic Mauna Kea summit.

Highlights include a mesmerizing sunset viewing, stargazing under the pristine sky, a visit to a black hole photo location, and the chance to use telescopes (Weather Permitting). Gain insights into the area’s history from knowledgeable guides and enjoy a private star show with professional telescopes.

End your experience with memorable night photos captured by the guide.

Pricing and Duration

Discover the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour, offering a captivating 6.5 to 7.5-hour experience from $269.00 per person.

This tour provides a comprehensive adventure for those eager to witness the mesmerizing sunset and explore the wonders of stargazing atop Mauna Kea.

At a competitive price point, participants can enjoy the beauty of the summit while learning from knowledgeable guides.

The duration allows for ample time to soak in the celestial views and engage in unforgettable stargazing moments.

Whether a solo traveler, couple, or a group of friends, this experience promises an enriching journey through the night sky.

With pickup and drop-off at select locations included, guests can focus on the magic of the experience without worrying about logistics.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour includes pickup and drop-off at select locations, snacks, hot chocolate, a guide, parkas, gloves, free night photos, and gratuities, but excludes dinner.

Here are four reasons why the inclusions of this tour will make your experience unforgettable:

Snacks and Hot Chocolate: Enjoy delicious treats while taking in the breathtaking sunset.
Parkas and Gloves: Stay warm and cozy at the summit for optimal stargazing comfort.
Free Night Photos: Capture the magic of the night sky without worrying about taking your own photos.
Gratuities Included: Show your appreciation to the guide hassle-free.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour ensures a memorable and hassle-free experience for all participants.

Itinerary Details

Experience an unforgettable journey through the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour’s detailed itinerary. The tour begins at select locations such as Bank of Hawaii, Starbucks, or Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo.

The main highlight is the visit to the majestic Mauna Kea summit for sunset viewing and stargazing. Guests will be provided with snacks, hot chocolate, parkas, gloves, and a knowledgeable guide.

The tour also includes a visit to a black hole photo location and, weather permitting, the use of telescopes for stargazing. Participants will learn about the area’s history and enjoy a private star show with a professional telescope, with photos taken by the guide and emailed to them.

The tour ends with drop-offs at the starting locations.

Experience Highlights

Embark on an exhilarating journey filled with captivating experiences during the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour. Get set for an unforgettable adventure with these exciting highlights:

Witness the breathtaking sunset from the summit of Mauna Kea, painting the sky in a myriad of colors.
Enjoy the world of stargazing with a private star show using a professional telescope (Weather Permitting).
Explore the rich history and lore of the area as your guide shares fascinating stories and insights.
Capture the magic of the night with photos taken by the guide and later emailed to you, preserving memories of this unique experience forever.

Meeting Points and Recommendations

Join the adventure by meeting at the designated locations for the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour. The meeting points for this extraordinary experience are Kona Bank of Hawaii, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo/Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, and Waikoloa Starbucks. To ensure a smooth start to the tour, participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes and long pants. However, it’s important to note that non-folding wheelchairs, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. As the weather on Mauna Kea can be unpredictable, it’s recommended to be ready for temperature drops below freezing. Below is a table listing the meeting points and essential recommendations:

Meeting Points	Recommendations
Kona Bank of Hawaii	Comfortable shoes
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo/Hilo Hawaiian Hotel	Long pants
Waikoloa Starbucks

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Discover what travelers are saying about the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour through their insightful reviews and ratings. Here are some highlights:

Breathtaking Sunset:
Many reviewers were captivated by the stunning sunset views from the summit.
Knowledgeable Guides:
Travelers praised the guides for their informative and engaging commentary throughout the tour.
Unforgettable Stargazing:
The stargazing experience left a lasting impression on visitors, with clear skies enhancing the beauty of the night sky.
Value for Money:
Several reviewers mentioned that the tour provided excellent value for the price, considering the unique experiences offered.

These reviews showcase the tour’s appeal to a diverse range of travelers, emphasizing the magical moments and educational aspects provided during the excursion.

Important Information and Weather Advisory

The tour’s important information and weather advisory provide essential guidance for participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Mauna Kea Summit. The access road to the summit may close without warning, and temperatures can dip below freezing. It is crucial to come prepared for changing weather conditions. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and long pants and refrain from bringing non-folding wheelchairs, alcohol, or drugs. Being aware of these details will help travelers have a smooth and memorable sunset and stargazing adventure.

Important Information	Weather Advisory	What to Bring
Meeting Points:	Access road may close	Comfortable shoes
What to bring:	Temperature can dip	Long pants
Not allowed:	below freezing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Food or Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, visitors cannot bring their own food or snacks on the tour. However, the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour includes snacks, hot chocolate, and even parkas and gloves. Guests are sure to enjoy the complimentary offerings provided.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available at the meeting points and drop-off locations. Participants can use the facilities before and after the tour. It’s recommended to take advantage of these facilities as there are no restrooms on the summit.

Are There Any Opportunities for Stargazing Photography?

Yes, there are ample opportunities for stargazing photography during the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour. Participants can capture stunning night sky views and even have photos taken by the guide.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Day of the Tour?

If the weather turns sour on tour day, activities like stargazing or summit viewing might be affected. However, the guide will make alternative arrangements to ensure participants still get a memorable experience under the circumstances.

Are There Any Souvenir or Gift Shops at the Meeting Points?

Yes, there are souvenir and gift shops at the meeting points for the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing Tour. Visitors can browse and pick up mementos before embarking on their unforgettable adventure.

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