Mauna Kea Stellar Explorer Tour from Kona in Hilo, HI

KapohoKine AdventuresGrand Naniloa DoubleTree by Hilton LobbyHilo, HI 96720
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Starting at
$251.90 $250.00
Total Price: $266.25 (USD)
You Save: $1.90
INSTANT CONFIRMATION
NO SERVICE FEES

Overview

Reach for the stars with the Mauna Kea Stellar Explorer tour! This unique Big Island adventure blends daytime solar viewing and stargazing. Explore Hilo's natural wonders, learn about volcanology, and experience awe-inspiring views of the sun and night sky through expert-led excursions.

up to 6 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

  • A day of natural beauty and awe-inspiring astronomy, blending Hilo’s scenic sites with an evening of stargazing under one of the clearest skies on Earth.
  • Plan your trip so close to a new moon for better experience and you get to see the milky way band as well!
  • Learn about everything from Hawaii including culture, folk lore, geography, volcanoes, history, and astronomy!
  • Plan for an unforgettable 6 hour experience.
  • Round-trip transportation is included, so you can relax and focus on the experience.
  • Enjoy a warm Kona coffee or hot chocolate, and provided jackets to stay comfortable throughout the tour.
  • Wear long pants as it gets chilly after the sun sets.
  • Your guide is a seasoned astronomy professional with experience at Mauna Kea's Visitor Center and contributions to major astronomy publications.
  • This tour does not visit Maunakea’s summit out of deference to Native Hawaiian concerns.

Description

Experience the wonders of Maunakea with the Stellar Explorer tour from KapohoKine Adventures, the only Big Island tour offering both nighttime stargazing and safe daytime solar viewing for all ages. Led by Hawaii’s most experienced guides, including those who have run the Mauna Kea Visitor’s Center and contributed to top astronomy publications, this adventure begins in Hilo, where you'll explore iconic sites like Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, and Kaumana Caves.

As you traverse Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, your National Park Service-trained guide will share fascinating insights on volcanology, geology, and local flora and fauna. You'll safely view the sun through a state-of-the-art solar telescope, witnessing solar flares, sunspots, and more. As night falls, you'll head to a prime location on Mauna Kea for stargazing through a large aperture Dobsonian telescope, offering unparalleled views of galaxies, nebulae, planets, and more. Enjoy the evening with warm Kona coffee or hot chocolate before returning to your resort.

Please Note: This tour does not visit Maunakea’s summit or Visitor Center out of respect for Native Hawaiian concerns.
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Mauna Kea Stellar Explorer (Kona) is located at KapohoKine AdventuresGrand Naniloa DoubleTree by Hilton LobbyHilo, HI 96720
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Frequently Asked Questions about Mauna Kea Stellar Explorer (Kona)

Where do we meet for the Mauna Kea Stellar Explorer trip?

You can be picked up at your hotel for this stargazing Big Island Hawaii tour! Please confirm you pick up date and time via the number located on your e-ticket.

How long is the tour?

The tour is approximately 6 hours long from beginning to end.

Should I eat before the tour?

Beverages and dinner is included in your tour price and experience.

Will the tour operate in the case of rain?

This stellar explorer experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What health restrictions are in place?

No heart problems or other serious medical conditions. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Are there other tour restrictions I should know about?

Yes. The following tour restrictions and regulations apply: (1) State law requires child safety seats for all guests under 4 years of age. (2) Booster seats required for all guests between ages 4 and 7 and under 4 feet 9 inches tall and 80 pounds weight. (3) Guests under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult. They are able to provide booster and safety seats for children who require them if given advance notice. Please note your request for a booster and/or safety seat when making your reservation, or by contacting the number located on your e-ticket.

What should I bring on the tour?

You must bring and present a government-issued ID. If desired, guests may bring a video camera/camera.

What is included in my tour?

You will get bottled water, driver and personal guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, dinner, and entry/admission to Saddle Road.

I have a food allergy or dietary restriction. Can this be accommodated?

Yes. Given advance notice, all food allergies and dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Please note this request when making your reservation and/or contact the number on your E-ticket.