Overview
About this experience
Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona
<ul><li>Observe one of the darkest and most pristine skies on planet Earth through a Dobsonian telescope
</li><li>Watch the sun come alive in true color with vibrant solar flares and sunspots
</li><li>Admire galaxies, nebula, star clusters, planets, the moon and much more</li></ul><strong>WHAT TO EXPECT</strong>
<br />The adventure starts with setting up a state-of-the-art solar telescope for your viewing pleasure, your specially trained guide will let you safely watch the sun come alive in true color with vibrant solar flares, sunspots, prominences and any other current activity weather permitting.
<br /><br />Next, you’ll travel across Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and most massive volcanoes on Earth. Your National Park Service-trained guide will discuss the volcanology, geology, and history of these monstrous wonders, as well as providing in-depth narration on the various lava flows and flora and fauna that you’ll be passing by.
<br /><br />After this, your guide will take you to one of the best spots on Mauna Kea for nighttime stargazing. You’ll observe deep-sky and planetary objects through a large aperture Dobsonian telescope under one of the darkest and most pristine skies on planet Earth! The Dobsonian telescopes are a true purist’s experience to view the night sky, their fast focal ratio enables you to see sprawling wide-field views of objects. Depending on what is visible in the current sky and weather permitting, you’ll observe galaxies, nebula, star clusters, planets, double star systems, the moon, and much more!
<br /><br />Lastly, warm up with 100% Kona coffee, hot chocolate, and a delicious dessert from a local artisan baker before returning to your resort.
The best bits
Experience highlights
<ul><li>Guided tour
</li><li>Hotel pickup/drop-off
</li><li>Entrance fees
</li><li>Warm jackets
</li><li>Picnic-style dinner</li></ul>
Plan ahead
Good to know
Receive a 100 % refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Pickup schedule will depend on the location of your accommodation in Kona. The local tour operator will contact you prior to the tour to arrange your pickup time. Please indicate your pickup location and phone number at checkout
People of all ages can participate in this tour
This tour is not fully wheelchair accessible. Participants have to do a few stairs to get in and out of the vehicle on their own. But it's possible to store a wheelchair in the back of the van if needed
This tour does not visit Maunakea’s summit or Visitor Center out of deference to Native Hawaiian concerns
Please wear closed-toed shoes and bring a light jacket. Some sights are weather dependent
Traveller reviews
4.3 out of 5
Based on 20 reviews
Incredible service and guide
I can't say enough good things about the Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona in New York City. Every aspect was handled professionally and the tour itself was fascinating. Highly, highly recommended!
Amazing experience!
Outstanding experience! The organization of the Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona was seamless. We saw the best parts of New York City and learned so much. The guide was exceptionally friendly and caring.
Absolutely outstanding!
This Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona was the highlight of our trip! Our guide was passionate and knowledgeable. The itinerary in New York City was perfect and we got to see everything we wanted. Excellent!
A must-do activity
I can't say enough good things about the Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona in New York City. Every aspect was handled professionally and the tour itself was fascinating. Highly, highly recommended!
Amazing experience!
Absolutely fantastic! The tour guide was amazing and really brought the history of New York City to life. Great value for money and we saw so much during the Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona. Thank you for a memorable day!
Great value for money
Outstanding experience! The organization of the Mauna Kea astronomical tour from Kona was seamless. We saw the best parts of New York City and learned so much. The guide was exceptionally friendly and caring.