Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour

On this adventure to the highest point in Hawaii (13,796 ft) and a world renowned stargazing spot, you will witness the universe like never before atop Mauna Kea. After a stunning sunset above the clouds amongst some of the leading observatories in the world, the night sky will reveal its wonder to you with your expert guide serving as your astronomer while pointing out planets, galaxies, stars, and more with a laser pointer and a private high-powered telescope. You should come away with a greater appreciation and understanding of space, Hawaiian culture, and the fascinating geology of the Big Island.

Due to chilly temperatures at the high altitudes, hooded parkas and gloves are provided for your comfort, as well as hot chocolate and teas (with brownies / cookies for dessert).

Due to the impacts of high altitude and regulations, only those age 16 and over can go on this tour. See FAQ for details about doing a private tour with kids.

For those staying in Hilo, there is no pick-up service from Hilo, but you can drive about 45 min inland to a pick-up spot near the base of the mountain without missing any portion of the tour. See map below.

NO AVAILABILITY? This popular tour usually sells out weeks in advance. Please consider the similar sunrise & stargazing tour. You may also monitor our calendar for any unexpected openings on this tour (i.e. due to others possibly cancelling).

Weather, including cloudy conditions, sometimes cancels the tour, especially during the winter months. Therefore, it is recommended you book the earliest possible date during your trip so you have a better chance of being able to reschedule if needed.

• Pick-up locations include multiple Kohala Coast/Waikoloa resorts
• Hot picnic dinner at private country ranch at 7,000 feet acclimatizes your body to the elevation gain
• Parkas and gloves to keep you warm
• Advanced 11” Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope for a closer look at the stars, planets, and moon
• Stargazing session is up to 1 hour
• Large comfortable tour van with big windows, not cramped cargo van
• The most reputable and longest running small group tour operator on the Big Island (almost 25 years)

Hawaii Big Island Revealed Guidebook:

Possibly the best place in the world to observe stars. Sunsets when clouds cooperate are an unrivaled splendor of unequaled expansiveness.

If you want to go stargazing on Mauna Kea, Hawaii Forest & Trail does the best job.

Lonely Planet Guidebook:

Top 20 Activities in State of Hawaii. Sunsets are phenomenal. The stargazing is a unique and profoundly memorable experience.

Top-notch ecotour outfitter with knowledgeable guides

Fodor's Guidebook:

Fodor’s Choice

This comfortable, highly educational tour packs a lot of fun. Guides are knowledgeable, and the small group size encourages camaraderie.

Moon Guidebook:

Hawaii Forest & Trail is a wonderful company with an excellent environmental ethic—the tours are highly recommended.

• Recognized at the local, state, and international levels as a leader in sustainable tourism
• Certified by the Hawai’i Ecotourism Association
• Donates to and partners with local environmental and community organizations
• Reusable silverware, containers, and water bottles to reduce waste

• No refunds after 48 hours prior to tour (2 weeks for private tours)

• 4.4386% Hawaii sales tax (GET)

• No children under 16
• Not for those with respiratory, circulatory or heart conditions, pregnancy, or poor health
• Should not participate within 24 hours after going scuba diving