Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Mauna Kea is one of the tallest volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean measuring at 4205 meters elevation above sea level making it the tallest mountain on the Big Island and one of the best places to stargaze. At such a high altitude, there is no light pollution and has 300 clear nights throughout the year making it one of the best places on the Earth for an astronomical observatory. Because of this, Mauna Kea is home to one of the largest telescopes in the world: the U.S. Keck Gemini.
In this tour, guests will venture up to the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station at 2800 meters elevation. Learn about not only the beauty, but the history of the land. Mauna Kea has been considered a very sacred place for native Hawaiians, which attests to how nature, spirituality, and science have come to coexist in this beautiful setting. With plenty of opportunities to take breathtaking and unforgettable pictures, guests will see the area transform into a heavenly atmosphere as they ascend above the clouds.
Itinerary (subject to change): Minimum 4 pax
3:00pm - 4:00pm: Hotel pickup in Kona District, Big Island.
-Arrival at Visitor Information Station
-Light Snack
-Stargazing and hot cocoa
9:00pm: Return to Kona

Activity Times (subject to information on the booking confirmation):
3:00pm - 9:00pm (time depends on sunset time, varies throughout the year)
Pick-up Information (subject to change):
Not all hotels are available for pick up, some hotels may need guests to meet at a designated location. Please indicate what hotel you will be staying at the evening before the event. The specific pickup time and location are subject to the information on the booking confirmation.
Age policy:
1. For age 16 years or older.
2. It is not recommended due to altitude effects on young children because they have a much higher incidence of high altitude problems.
Attention:
1. Please wear long-sleeved clothes on the day of participation. Participants will be provided with parkas, but are advised to wear thicker pants and footwear.
2. In order to protect the natural environment, the number of people going up the mountain will be limited. Please be aware that if you want to visit the mountain, you need to book as early as possible.
3. Due to the high altitude, low oxygen content, and low night temperature, participate at your own risk and be prepared in advance.
4. A light meal will be provided at dinner time, but you may wish to bring your own snacks.
5. Rate only applied for Kona area pickup.
Booking Notice:
1. What are the Health Risk of Mauna Kea?
- Mauna Kea has 40% less oxygen than sea level and 40% less air pressure than sea level.
- This lack of vital oxygen can be a very serious problem for persons with HEART or LUNG disease.
- Persons that have been SCUBA diving in the last 24 hours run the risk of getting “The Bends” because of the decreased air pressure and the build up of nitrogen in their bodies.
- Pregnant women should not travel to Mauna Kea because of the decreased oxygen available for mother and child.
- We do not take children under 16 years of age to the summit because they have a much higher incidence of high altitude problems.
- In addition persons whom are obese (Body mass index of 40.0 or over BMI calculator) are not allowed to take this trip.
- Because of the long, bumpy road this trip might not be suitable for persons with back injure.
2. TIP of $15 per person for good service is customary in Hawaii and is very much appreciated by your guide.
3. Stargazing conditions depend on local weather. While most tours have fine stargazing conditions, suitable weather is not guaranteed. No refunds will be made.
4. This tour will not bring visitors to the summit of Mauna Kea, nor does it stop for a sunset viewing.
Disclaimer:
1. Reservation confirmation: Our customer service will confirm the booking after you place the order. If your selected date is sold out, you are allowed to change the travel date for free or choose a full refund.
2. No refunds will be made for personal reasons for being late, not showing up, or leaving early.
3. The itinerary may be subject to change or suspension due to weather, strikes, festivals, safety, etc. Please follow the instructions of the local operator in the case of such an event.
4. We are not responsible for any personal injuries or property damage that may result if you choose to leave the tour early.
5. The company has the right to make strategic adjustments to the prices of products and services within a reasonable range without notice.
6. Changes in product prices may occur. The difference will not be refunded.
7. This product is based on a real-name system and is not transferable to another person.
Cancellation Policy:
1. To be fully refunded, a notice of cancellation must be received  at least 5 days prior to the activity date. We will notify you of any exceptions to this policy.
2. All cancellations received within 4 days of the activity date will not be refunded.
3. A 8% service fee is withheld for any canceled reservations paid by credit card.
4. If you do not show up at the agreed time and place, your order will be automatically deemed abandoned and the full payment will still be charged.
Note: To cancel or modify the order, please contact our customer service, available Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm HST (except on Hawaii state holidays).

The cost includes:
-Stargazing Experience Tour to Visitor Center ONLY
-Professional guide
-Pickup (Kona/Waikoloa area only)
-Parkas
-Snack will be provided
The cost does not include:
-Gratuity (recommended $5-10 per person)
-Personal consumption and expenses

Pick up at Kona and Waikoloa hotels.
Not all hotels are available for pick up, some hotels may need guests to meet at a designated location. Please indicate what hotel you will be staying at the evening before the event. The specific pickup time and location are subject to the information on the booking confirmation.