4 (90)

Kailua-Kona, US

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For an out-of-this-world experience, book the Maunakea Stellar Explorer from KapohoKine Adventures. This thrilling tour is the only Big Island star tour to feature nighttime astronomical observing AND safe daytime solar viewing. With all ages welcome, it's the perfect adventure for the whole family. The in-house stellar explorers are the best and most experienced in Hawaii, with one having created the Mauna Kea Visitor's Center. Others on staff have written noted articles for well-known astronomy magazines and have worked at world-class observatories. On this tour, you'll witness breathtaking views of the night sky through a large aperture Dobsonian telescope, allowing you to see galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, planets, and more like never before. Afterward, warm up with Kona coffee and hot chocolate before returning to your resort. Don't miss out on this unique and unforgettable experience on Maunakea.

About this experience

Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
Admission Included
6 hours 30 minutes
Suitable for 1-15 Participants
Private Tour, Small Group Tour
Guided Experience

Highlights

Safe daytime solar viewing
Experienced in-house stellar explorers
Deep sky and planetary observations with large aperture telescope
Sprawling wide field views of galaxies, nebula, and star clusters
Warm up with Kona coffee and hot chocolate

Included

Bottled water
Dinner
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Driver/guide
Jackets

Not included

Gratuities

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

For an out-of-this-world experience, check out Maunakea Stellar Explorer from KapohoKine Adventures. This thrilling adventure is the only Big Island star tour to feature nighttime astronomical observing AND safe daytime solar viewing with all ages welcome! Our in-house stellar explorers are the best and most experienced in Hawaii with one having created the Mauna Kea Visitor’s Center and operated it for a decade. Others on staff have written noted articles and reviews for well-known astronomy magazines and have worked at world-class observatories.

What to expect?

Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey that combines the marvels of day and night sky exploration. The Maunakea Stellar Explorer tour promises to provide unparalleled experiences and encounters with celestial wonders. Throughout the 390-minute adventure, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, planets, double star systems, and the moon through state-of-the-art telescopes. With our fast focal ratio Dobsonian telescopes, you can indulge in wide field views of objects that you've never seen before. Plus, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about volcanoes, geology, and the history of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

Who is this for?

This tour is ideal for stargazers of all ages who yearn for an extraordinary experience. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or someone looking to delve into the world of astronomy for the first time, our Maunakea Stellar Explorer tour caters to all levels of interest. Families, couples, solo travelers, and groups will find this tour to be an immersive and educational adventure that unveils the secrets of the universe in a captivating way.

Why book this?

With its unique blend of daytime solar viewing and nighttime astronomical observing, the Maunakea Stellar Explorer tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness celestial wonders from one of the darkest and most pristine skies on planet Earth. You can explore the magnificence of the universe with our top-of-the-line Dobsonian telescopes, providing wide field views that other tours simply can't match. Additionally, our guides' expertise and passion for astronomy, gained from years of experience and contributions to the field, ensure a truly enchanting and informative journey.

Good to know

It's important to note that this tour does not visit Maunakea's summit out of deference to Native Hawaiian concerns. However, rest assured that the deliberate choice of stargazing locations still guarantees exceptional celestial viewing opportunities. Throughout the tour, you will be provided with warm jackets and have the chance to indulge in Kona coffee and hot chocolate. So, dress comfortably and prepare for an unforgettable experience under the sparkling night sky.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the Maunakea Stellar Explorer tour have been blown away by the immersive and educational experience it provides. They praise the knowledgeable and passionate guides who shared captivating stories and insights about the universe. The technology and telescopes used during the tour received rave reviews, with visitors amazed by the stunning views of stars, galaxies, and celestial objects. Travelers also appreciated the attention to detail, warm jackets, and the chance to warm up with Kona coffee and hot chocolate. Overall, the reviews underscore the unforgettable moments and exceptional stargazing opportunities offered by the Maunakea Stellar Explorer tour.

About this product

How long before the event do I need to book?

You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Kailua-Kona

The adventure starts with dinner.

Saddle Road

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. Lastly, your guide will take you to one of our preferred locations on Mauna Kea for nighttime stargazing.

Admission Included

Mauna Kea

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! Our 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 that simply aren’t possible with the types of telescopes used by other tours. 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; all the highlights and showpiece objects like you’ve never seen before! Afterwards, warm up with Kona coffee and hot chocolate before returning to your resort. Warm jackets provided. This tour does not visit Maunakea’s summit out of deference to Native Hawaiian concerns.

Additional information

Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews

(90)

4 (90)

Relax693916

Our guide Marcus was amazing. He was very knowledgeable about the stars and Hawaiian history. Super friendly and nice.

Steve_G

Awesome star viewing and Marcus our trip guide was amazing!! He was very knowledgeable about astronomy and the formation of the universe

Lauren_P

Fantastic tour!! We saw the rings on Saturn, the bands on Jupiter and much more!!! Guides are so knowledgeable and really fun to be around!! This telescope is amazing!!!!

Sorbrique_G

Marcus was an excellent guide! He was friendly and knowledgeable about stars and Hawaii. The meal was decent, typical tour food, maybe a touch better. My only complaint was having 20 people (we had another tour w/us) to one guide made things a little long, but we made do and were able to see some very cool things. If you have never had the opportunity to see the night sky through a telescope, would recommend this trip. If you have, you can skip it.

Ron_M

I especially liked that the guide used his laser pointer to highlight the stars and constellations he was talking about.

Kathryn C

We were very fortunate to have great weather for viewing some constellations and planets (Saturn and Jupiter were viewable) with the solar telescope. Our guide was Sam who brought his environmental science background to the tour and was also incredibly knowledgeable about the local culture and, of course, astronomy. Also very thankful for the coats they provided, it was below 50 degrees at our stargazing point! A must do excursion!

Mary_M

Marcus is a very knowledgeable and friendly tour guide. ,.............forcing a minimal of words in this rating isnt a good idea.

Christopher_S

No star-gazzng...rained whole time...driver drove around very slow to extend time...was obvious by 6:30 trip was a bust...yet until 8:30 to get back to hotel...I understand one can't c9ntrol weather but weather forecast prediczed clouds throughout night ...and vedor persisted with trip...I WANT A REFUND...my wife is a heavy weight publicist and this experience is going to end up all over the internet and beyond if you cannot return f7nds...have been coming to Hawaii for decades and this was THE WORST

Cheryl_K

Seeing Saturn and getting a video of the moon through the Dobsonian telescope. Seeing the Milky Way against the really dark sky. Our tour guide was friendly, knowledgeable and funny. Make sure you wear warm clothes: sweat pants, warm socks. Warm jackets are e provided and were much appreciated. Worth the money.

rebeccas

Please read thoroughly because the description is very clear this does not go to the top of Mauna Kea. I saw a few not great reviews because it did not go to the summit. We had Rich as a guide he was amazing. So much knowledge about constellations and the Hawaiian islands. We have children who are teenagers and we would totally recommend this tour with Rich!

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2024-06-09 03:23