Mauna Kea High Altitude Sunset Tour

Take a ride with a small group (4-6 people) to the highest mountain in the world and watch the sunset. Our tour leaves Kona at seasonally adjusted times (2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.). We start our tour from your resort and go directly to the Onizuka Visitor Center (VIS) at 9200ft (3000m) where you may do some vigorous short climbs or watch videos on Astronomy and the Telescopes. The VIS also has hot drinks, snacks and a large range of mountain and astronomy related souvenirs and educational materials available. Following a 30 to 45-minute acclimatization stop at the VIS, we ascend to 13,800ft where our guide will explain the various telescopes in view. Next, we continue up the last few hundred feet to the road high point where those in good physical condition may walk around the nearby telescopes. This opportunity and sunset are often at the same time revealing spectacular views of sunset and the famous Shadow of Mauna Kea to the East. Upon twilight, we descend to the VIS location where the VIS guide, leads you on a detailed journey across the magnificent night sky describing major celestial objects and Polynesian navigational stars. You will have an opportunity to use the VISs provided telescopes as well as have time for hot drinks and bathrooms before continuing back. We return to Kona usually by 9 pm to 10 pm (depending on season).