Experience sunset views that literally take your breath away at the towering summit of Mauna Kea, then stargaze like a true astronomer with the powerful telescopes at the mountain's Visitor Information Station.
Details
In the course of a day, travel from sea level to Mauna Kea's nearly 14,000-foot (4,267 m) summit, and learn what makes this astronomical location—home to the W. M. Keck Observatory and the Subaru and Gemini telescopes—so unique. At the Visitor Information Station, your base camp for the day, acclimate to the higher altitude with a meal, and steel yourself against the summit's thin-air chill with provided parkas and gloves. A scenic and thrilling-yet-comfortable drive brings you to the Mauna Kea peak observatories, their "eyes" opening and rotating into position as the setting sun casts its unearthly glow across the still terrain. Toast the darkening sky with cookies and hot beverages once back down at "base camp," and peer into the heavens while your guide unveils the secrets of the universe.
Inclusions
- Informative narration from highly trained guides
- Transportation in Van Terra 4x4 micro-coaches—comfort, spaciousness, and panoramic views
- Convenient, central pick-up point
- Superb scenery and photo opportunities with Sunset on the Summit
- Arctic-style parkas with hoods and gloves
- Meal choices: Kho Chu Jang Beef Ribs, Teriyaki Chicken, or Veggie Tofu Wrap
- 11-inch computerized telescopes (twice the power of the standard 8-inch)
- Stargazing program with powerful telescope (weather permitting)
Duration
Approximately 8 hours
Departure time
Departure times vary with season. Exact departure time will be given when the trip is confirmed.
Departure location
Meet at Buns in the Sun, located at the Lani Hau shopping center, across the street from Starbucks.
Participant restrictions
A trip to the Mauna Kea summit is suitable for participants ages 13 and older. Do not attempt a trip to the Mauna Kea summit if you have heart or respiratory conditions, are pregnant, severely obese, sick, or in a weakened state. Scuba divers should wait at least 24 hours from their last dive before attempting a summit trip. Please consult a physician if you have any doubt.
Note
Mauna Kea averages 325 clear nights a year. Most of the unfavorable nights are predictable and about 8% of trips are cancelled for that reason. Occasionally, unexpected clouds or inclement weather may affect a trip in progress. About 5% of trips are affected by undesirable weather. In any case, Mauna Kea is a cold and sometimes windy place. You will need long pants, closed-toe shoes, and an intermediate layer of clothing.
Terms & Conditions
This Activity can be changed or cancelled without penalty at any time prior to 48 hours before the scheduled start of this Activity. Otherwise the product is 100% non-refundable and non-transferable.