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Mauna Kea Summit
 
Mauna Kea Summit Adventures
 
This original Sunset and Stargazing tours started 25 years ago. Back then, Pat Wright conducted his tours from an old Land Cruiser. The Land Cruiser has since been replaced with Van Terra's, and the basket of sweaters have been replaced with Deluxe Arctic Survival Parkas and Gloves. What has not changed is the passion with which this tour continues today.
 
Summit Adventures
 
The Original Sunset and Stargazing Tour
The trip begins mid-afternoon. Depending on your pick up location (Starbucks in the Waikoloa King's Shops; Buns in the Sun at Lanihau Center in Kailua Kona; or the Junction of Highway 190 and 200), an exclusive Van Terra vehicle will transport you. Your tour time will last 7 to 8.25 hours. Informative guides will teach you about geology, natural history, and the geography of the island, as they take you on your journey to Mauna Kea.

These spacious four wheel drive vans can easily hold 13 passengers. Oversized windows, heating and air conditioning systems, upgraded suspension, overhead storage, and an aisle height of 6'2" are some of the luxurious features. The initial stop at the Mauna Kea Visitor's Center will allow you to acclimate to the 9,000' elevation and enjoy a hearty supper.
 
Mauna Kea Summit
Select in advance one of the following delicious meals to be served at the Onizuka Visitors Center Lanai:
Kho Chu Jang Glazed Beef Ribs (spicy sweet), Jasmine Rice, Namasu (cucumber) Salad (Served Hot)
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken, Jasmine Rice and a Pineapple Relish (Served Hot)
Tofu Spinach Wrap with a Cream Sauce and a Cranberry Tabouleh Salad * (Served Cold)
All choices are served with a scrumptuous, homemade chocolate brownie. Beverages with dinner are not provided, but may be purchased at the Visitors Center, or you may bring along non-alcoholic drinks.
* can be made completely vegan

Marvel at the telescope viewings, learn about the astronomers who work there, then snuggle into your parka and gloves for the steep 1/2 hour drive to the summit area. Here your guide will point out the observatories as they begin to open and rotate into position.

Grab the photo opportunity of a life time as the sun begins to set. When the sunset colors have passed, you will descend to mid mountain where the sky is equally clear, but the climate and air is more comfortable for stargazing. Hot drinks and cookies are served halfway through the evening.

Peer through large portable telescopes, and allow the guides to take you on a tour of the stars with their laser lights.
Tour Rate Pick Up Locations Pick Up Times Duration Restrictions
 $  197.00 Waikoloa, Kailua, Saddle Junction varies by date & location 7-8 hours High Altitude Warning
 
Mauna Kea Summit
 
Reservations:   (808) 333-1910
  Please be sure that your group meets the age, health, scuba and high altitude restrictions below.
  Please provide an approximate Men's Parka Size for each guest : small, medium large, xlarge and xxlarge.
Meal Choices:   Teriyaki Chicken / Korean Beef Spareribs / Veggie Tofu Spinach Wrap
Tour Features:   Superb Scenery, Convenient Pick Up Points, Highly Trained Guides, Delicious Dinners, Parkas, Gloves
Restrictions:   This tour is not for those with heart or respiratory conditions, nor obese or pregnant persons.
  No ill or weak persons
  No scuba diving within 24 hours of tour
  No children under 9 years of age. No children under 13 years of age allowed above 9000 ft.
Tips:   Bring a sweater or hoodie, a bottle of water, and a beverage to have with your dinner and snacks.
  Bring fresh camera batteries. The cold can stop a weak set of batteries.
  Please provide a cell phone contact so the driver can call you if the need arises.
Pick Up Time:   Please be at your pick up location 15 minutes early.
WVRM Cancellation Policy:   72 Hours
  Stargazing depends on natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Notes:   Tour duration times are approximate; price includes tax.