Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona

Free cancellation

Place: Big Island of Hawaii

Duration: 6 hours

Language: English

Mobile voucher accepted

Instant confirmation

Guided Tour

Hotel pick up

Transport included

Lunch

Do this because

Observe one of the darkest and most pristine skies on planet Earth through a Dobsonian telescope
Watch the sun come alive in true color with vibrant solar flares and sunspots
Admire galaxies, nebula, star clusters, planets, the moon and much more

What to expect

The adventure starts with setting up a state-of-the-art solar telescope for your viewing pleasure, your specially trained guide will let you safely watch the sun come alive in true color with vibrant solar flares, sunspots, prominences and any other current activity weather permitting.

Next, you’ll travel across Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and most massive volcanoes on Earth. Your National Park Service-trained guide will discuss the volcanology, geology, and history of these monstrous wonders, as well as providing in-depth narration on the various lava flows and flora and fauna that you’ll be passing by.

After this, your guide will take you to one of the best spots on Mauna Kea for nighttime stargazing. You’ll observe deep-sky and planetary objects through a large aperture Dobsonian telescope under one of the darkest and most pristine skies on planet Earth! The Dobsonian telescopes are a true purist’s experience to view the night sky, their fast focal ratio enables you to see sprawling wide-field views of objects. Depending on what is visible in the current sky and weather permitting, you’ll observe galaxies, nebula, star clusters, planets, double star systems, the moon, and much more!

Lastly, warm up with 100% Kona coffee, hot chocolate, and a delicious dessert from a local artisan baker before returning to your resort.

Pickup schedule will depend on the location of your accommodation in Kona. The local tour operator will contact you prior to the tour to arrange your pickup time. Please indicate your pickup location and phone number at checkout
People of all ages can participate in this tour
This tour is not fully wheelchair accessible. Participants have to do a few stairs to get in and out of the vehicle on their own. But it's possible to store a wheelchair in the back of the van if needed
This tour does not visit Maunakea’s summit or Visitor Center out of deference to Native Hawaiian concerns
Please wear closed-toed shoes and bring a light jacket. Some sights are weather dependent