Mauna Kea: Stellar Explorer Tour from Hilo
Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Have an out-of-this-world experience. This thrilling adventure is the only Big Island star tour to feature nighttime astronomical observing for all ages.
Overview
This guided tour in Hawaii visits Rainbow Falls, Kaumana Caves, and includes nighttime stargazing on Mauna Kea, suitable for nature and astronomy enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Visit Rainbow Falls
- Explore the Kaumana Caves
- Learn about Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and largest volcanoes on Earth
- Visit Boiling Pots
- Experience stargazing through large-aperture telescopes under dark skies
Description
Start your tour with visits to Rainbow Falls and the Kaumana Caves. Then travel along Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and largest volcanoes on Earth.
Your guide will take you to a preferred nighttime stargazing location on Mauna Kea. Here, you will observe deep sky and planetary objects using large-aperture telescopes under some of the darkest skies on the planet.
Expert astronomers will provide narration based on decades of work at world-class observatories and published articles. The telescopes used offer wide-field views of objects not visible with other types of telescopes.
Weather and sky conditions determine what you will see, which may include galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, planets, double star systems, and the moon.
This tour respects Native Hawaiian concerns by not visiting Mauna Kea’s summit or Visitor Center.
Includes
- Entrance fees
- All telescope equipment
- Jackets
Important Information
- The tour does not visit Mauna Kea’s summit out of respect for Native Hawaiian concerns
- Wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and bring a jacket
- Telescope equipment is provided
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book in advance and prepare for cooler temperatures on Mauna Kea by bringing warm clothing.
