Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world–if you start measuring from the bottom of the ocean, anyway! Because of the clear air and distance from mainland lights and haze, it’s home to some of the world’s most sophisticated observatories. Although you cannot visit inside the observatories, there are available tours
- Hualalai from Mauna Kea
who will take you there for a very reasonable fee. Mauna Kea Tours leaves from the Kona area about 2 PM and provides a lunch and a comfortable ride. Most of the tours also provide telescopes at an area of about 10,000 feet (with warm coats, of course!). The view of the stars is probably the best in the world!
Mauna Kea Summit & Stars
- Mauna Kea Observatories
Join Hawaii Forest & Trail for an unbelievable evening that begins with dinner at Parker Ranch followed by an excursion to the summit of Mauna Kea. You’ll enjoy hot drinks & cookies as you marvel at the brilliance of the Hawaiian sky through telescope. Starting at $185.00 per person.
Mauna Kea Summit Adventure
See the sunset from the summit of Mauna Kea, then enjoy a full evening of the most amazing stargazing imaginable as you enjoy hot drinks & cookies at a ‘Star party’ with Mauna Kea Summit Adventures, Hawaii’s original Mauna Kea tour company! Starting at $189.11 per person.
Jack’s Tours
Jack’s Tours has been specializing in providing tours and transportation (including English and Japanese narration) on the Big Island for over 40 years. Whether you’re interested in one of our popular tours or creating your own customized tour, we have the expertise and finest equipment to meet all of your tour and transportation needs. Click on the links to the left to find out more about our company and the services we offer.
Finding Your Way There
Mauna Kea summit can be reached by it’s access via the Saddle Road. The road is smooth on the Hilo (East) side but very rough on the Kona (West) side.
Operating Hours and Seasons:
If you choose to drive yourself, the trip back is treacherous at night and not recommended. Mauna Kea is often snow covered in the winter months so be sure to check the weather conditions before starting your trip.
