Experience a place like no other on this daytime trip to Mauna Kea from Hilo, Hawaii.
This tour starts at sea level from our lodge in Hilo, and ventures up to 14,000 feet in elevation (over 4200m.) Mauna Kea is a sacred site for native Hawaiians, and is also the home of a number of world class telescopes. It is widely considered one of the best places for astronomy in the world.
The Daytime tour showcases some of the fascinating scientific history of this mountain, including geology, volcanology, and anthropology, during a less-crowded time of day.
Please note that this tour does not guarantee access inside any of the observatories. At this time, the only observatory that had public access (the Keck Observatory) is still closed to the public due to COVID concerns.
We will be offering this tour on Mondays and Tuesdays by request only. We currently require a minimum of 4 guests in order to run this tour. Departure time is 9:30 a.m. from our lodge in Hilo. We offer pickups from most of the main hotels in Hilo itself, and we can also meet guests at the Onizuka Visitors Center on Mauna Kea. For guests coming on cruise ships to the Port of Hilo, we can pick up from the Keaukaha General Store across the street from the Port. Interested in a private tour? Inquire by calling/text/whatsapp at 808-339-0921 or email at reservations@arnottslodge.com
Restrictions:
**This tour is not recommended for anyone with heart or respiratory conditions, motion sickness, back pain, pregnant women, children under the age of 13, anyone in poor health, or anyone who has scuba-dived within the last 48 hours. We strongly recommend that you not take this tour if you have indulged in alcohol to excess the night before, or if you have had any alcohol to drink the day of your tour. You must be 13+ to take this tour. As a general health indicator all guests must be able to walk at least 100 yards briskly and to climb into the van unaided. If you have a health condition that you believe may be affected by altitude changes or reduced oxygen intake, or if you are unsure, please consult your doctor before booking this tour. Step stools are rated for 250 lbs/115 kg and guest must be able to occupy a single seat space. Please read our FAQ on Mauna Kea.
Cancellation Policy:
We have a 48-hour cancellation policy. Cancel your accommodation and/or tour prior to 48 hours of check in and you will be refunded amount minus $49 for a cancellation fee for each accommodation and tour you booked. No refunds for cancellations or no shows within our 48 hour cancellation policy. No refunds for early checkouts once you've checked in.
***Please review our terms and conditions before booking.
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