Hawaii’s GOAT Mauna Kea Summit: Sunset & Stargazing
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition to handle high altitude and moderate walking during the tour.
Overview
Experience Mauna Kea’s stunning summit sunset and private guided stargazing with Hawaii Island Holidays. Discover cosmic wonders and capture unforgettable moments at Hawaii’s highest peak.
Hawaii’s GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars
6-7 Hours • Ages 13+ to book • All ages for tour • Choose The Date And Pick Up Location Below
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About This Adventure
Experience a stunning sunset from Mauna Kea's peak, the highest point in the Pacific, while learning about the historic telescopes that captured the first black hole photo. Conclude your adventure with a private stargazing session using a professional telescope, complete with a memorable photo taken by your guide.
View an amazing sunset from the peak of Mauna Kea and learn about the stars and planets. Amazing sunset and stars at where the first black hole photo was taken
•Delight in the awe-inspiring sunset at the top of Maunakea, the highest point in the Pacific
•Your guide will share historic accounts of the Big Island
•Stand amidst the world’s largest collection of research telescopes
•See two of the eight telescopes which took the first photo of a black hole
•Sip hot beverage during your private star show with a professional telescope ( Weather Permitting)
•Your guide will take a photo for you with a camera and email it to you
Adventure Tips
Altitude Awareness
Mauna Kea’s summit sits over 13,000 feet; take time to acclimate and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures drop quickly after sunset, so wear warm clothing even if the day feels mild.
Bring a Camera
A camera with low-light capabilities or manual settings lets you capture the stunning night skies.
Use Sunscreen
The UV exposure is strong at high elevation; apply sunscreen during the daylight portion of your tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Nene Goose (Hawaii's state bird)
- Hawaiian Hawk (Io)
History
Mauna Kea is a sacred mountain in Hawaiian culture and hosts world-class observatories used in groundbreaking astronomical research.
Conservation
Efforts protect the fragile summit environment and respect cultural sites while promoting sustainable tourism practices to preserve Mauna Kea’s natural beauty.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hilo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Warm Clothing
Multiple layers help keep you warm as temperatures drop at the summit after sunset.
winter specific
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Comfortable, supportive footwear is needed for uneven terrain on the summit and approach trails.
Headlamp or Flashlight
Essential for safe navigation during the dark return trip after stargazing.
Camera with Manual Mode
Helpful for capturing the night sky and sunset with better control over exposure settings.