About This Tour
Head to the Mauna Kea Observatory, nestled high in the mountains of the Big Island, and experience an intriguing and provocative journey through space and time. Discover Hawaii from the top of the island's tallest peak, Mauna Kea, also known as 'White Mountain,' located 13,796 feet (4,200 meters) above sea level. This small-group star-watching tour ensures a personalized and unique experience at the enchanting Mauna Kea summit.
Photo Gallery

The night sky at Mauna Kea's summit on the Big Island of Hawaii is full of stars.

Mauna Kea Summit and Stargazing Adventure Tour.

A traveler prepares to watch the night sky after sunset at Mauna Kea Summit, on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Capturing a captivating sunset at over 13,000' on Maunakea.

Views from the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Snow filled craters at the summit of Maunakea
TopTours Insights
Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
Let TopTours AI read the full tour details and generate a short insight about who this experience is best for and what stands out.
Calculating tour characteristics...
What's Included
What's Not Included
Additional Information
Meeting Point
Please park in the lower gravel lot & walk to the Visitors Ctr (aka Onizuka Ctr) to meet our guide by the picnic area. Arrive at least 15 mins prior to your pick-up time. PLEASE NOTE: Your pick-up time will be different than the displayed online tour start time. Contact us to verify the meeting time
Please park by the vacant lot adjacent to Domino's Pizza. Our guide will meet you on the curbside. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. PLEASE NOTE: Your pick-up time will be different than the displayed tour start time online. Please contact us to verify the meeting time.
Please park & meet us on the backside (south side) of this popular shopping center. We will pick you up by the long yellow curb with the two yellow umbrellas. PLEASE NOTE: Your pick-up time will be different than the tour start time displayed online. Please contact us to verify the meeting time.
Please meet us at the front entrance and allow a 15-minute window for your driver to arrive. PLEASE NOTE: Your pick-up time will be different than the tour start time displayed online. You may contact us to verify the meeting time.
**IMPORTANT - Please note that guests meeting at the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the tour's start time. ** ** Mahalo!**
Special Instructions
• Please note guests must be 13 years of age or older to attend this tour • Guests are required to wear closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots, and long pants. We recommend guests bring a light sweatshirt or jacket. • Important: Please advise the following either through the Viator messaging portal, directly to Hawaii Forest and Trail (+1-808-331-8505) or info@hawaii-forest.com at the time of booking: 1. HOTEL NAME - needed to confirm the closest meeting location 2. PARKA SIZE, (small, medium, large, x-large or xx-large) 3. MEAL
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Hawaii Forest &Trail
Official supplier for this experience. Bookings are handled directly through Viator with verified partners.
Viator Certified
Trusted local operator
Are you the tour operator?
Get up to 15× more visibility by linking your tours together. Show travelers all your offerings on each tour page. Just one extra booking per month covers the cost. Starting at just $4.99/month.
Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 1,524 verified reviews
Average rating
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by Hawaii Forest &Trail.
What's included?
This tour includes Private star show with telescope, Hooded parkas and gloves, and Central Meeting Locations for Pick-up & Drop off. Additional amenities and services are included. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long does this experience take?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
Is this tour worth it?
Yes, this experience has a 4.8-star rating based on 1.5K+ reviews, making it a highly rated option.
What to expect on this tour?
This tour experience lasts approximately 8 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to Private star show with telescope and more.
Ready to Go?
Book Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
Secure your spot instantly through Viator and receive flexible cancellation options plus verified customer support.
Trusted partner • Instant confirmation
