Mauna Kea Arnott's Adventures

Hilo, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (154 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    All Fees and Taxes
  • inclusion
    Jacket

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Telescopes
  • exclusion
    Dinner

Meeting Point

Onizuka Visitor's Center at 9,000 feet. Meet our tour guide here.

Meeting point

Mauna Kea Access Rd, Hilo, HI , United States

End point

End Point

Onizuka Visitor's Center at 9,000 feet. Meet our tour guide here.

Meeting point

Mauna Kea Access Rd, Hilo, HI , United States

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Arnott's Lodge
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - A Doubletree By Hilton
Hilo Bay Hotel
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
Hilo Reeds Bay Hotel
SCP Hilo Hotel
Our Mauna Kea Tour begins in HILO and meets guests in Hilo or at the Onizuka Visitor Center on Mauna Kea. We currently can ONLY offer a Kona pickup if we have at least 4 passengers to pick up. If you are located in Kona or Waikoloa and would like to join our tour, please contact us BEFORE booking so that we can determine the best meeting location for you.

What to expect

1

Meeting Point

98 Apapane Road Hilo, HI . 96720

2

Rainbow Falls

Visit Hilo's local Rainbow Falls and monkeypod tree (Hilo departures only). If you're lucky you'll see Anuenue (rainbow).

Duration 15 minutes
3

Onizuka Astronomy Complex

Visit exhibits in this cozy station and acclimate at the elevation of 9,000 feet/2743 meters before ascending to the summit of Mauna Kea.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4

Mauna Kea

Ascend to the summit of Mauna Kea at 13,796 feet/4205 meters to arrive above the clouds and watch the sunset (weather permitting). See international telescopes along the way on this sacred mountain.

Duration 30 minutes
5

Onizuka Astronomy Complex

Stargaze with our local tour guide with a laser pointer. No telescopes are provided.

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
6

End Point

98 Apapane Road Hilo, HI . 96720

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Age minimum 13 years old
  • Additional information
    DO NOT attend within 24 hours of scuba or manta ray diving
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with respiratory conditions
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Not recommended to consume carbonated beverages during or directly before this tour
  • Additional information
    Not recommended to consume intoxicants during or directly before this tour
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Provided by Arnott's Lodge

What our experts say

  • icon
    Bring a warm jacket; it gets cold.
  • icon
    Visit Rainbow Falls before the tour.
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    Stay hydrated but avoid carbonated drinks.
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    Plan to acclimate at Onizuka Center.
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    Capture the sunset; it's stunning!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Mauna Kea Arnott's Adventures invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey to experience the majestic beauty of Mauna Kea, one of the most awe-inspiring mountains in the world. With its rich cultural significance to the Hawaiian people and remarkable contributions to geology and astronomy, Mauna Kea holds a truly special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

What to expect?

During the Mauna Kea Summit Tour, you can anticipate a profound spiritual high as you delve into the sacredness and cultural aspects of this remarkable mountain. Our knowledgeable local guides will enlighten you with captivating stories and insights, providing a deeper understanding of Mauna Kea's significance. As you ascend to the summit at 13,796 feet, prepare to be mesmerized as you transcend the clouds and witness the breathtaking sunset (weather permitting). Along the way, catch glimpses of international telescopes that adorn the sacred mountain, symbolizing its pivotal role in astronomy. After the sunset, get ready for a mesmerizing stargazing experience guided by our expert tour guides. Using a laser pointer, they will point out constellations and stars, immersing you in the wonders of the night sky.

Who is this for?

The Mauna Kea Summit Tour is tailored for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and those who crave a deeper connection with nature and culture. Whether you are a passionate traveler or a curious soul who seeks spiritual rejuvenation, this tour is sure to leave an unforgettable impression.

Why book this?

By embarking on the Mauna Kea Summit Tour, you will unlock an unparalleled opportunity to witness and appreciate the natural beauty and cultural significance of Mauna Kea. This tour holds the prestigious honor of being the top-rated adventure and photography tour, ensuring an extraordinary experience filled with breathtaking moments and unforgettable memories.

Good to know

It is important to note that this tour requires a minimum of two guests to run. We kindly request guests to meet us in Hilo or at the Onizuka Visitor Center on Mauna Kea, as we do not provide pickups from Kona, Waikoloa, or any hotels outside of Hilo. Please review additional information regarding age restrictions, health considerations, pregnancy, scuba diving, respiratory conditions, heart/back issues, and intoxicants prior to booking the tour. Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance to us.

Reviews

The Mauna Kea Summit Tour has garnered glowing reviews from individuals who have witnessed its wonders firsthand. Guests have expressed their admiration for the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the mesmerizing sunset views, and the unforgettable stargazing experience. Numerous reviewers have referred to this tour as a "spiritual journey" and a "once-in-a-lifetime experience." Prepare to be enchanted and leave with a renewed sense of wonder after embarking on the Mauna Kea Arnott's Adventures.

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