Mauna Kea Stargazing Experience + Photos

Overview

Led by both an astronomer and an astro-photographer, we’re the only stargazing tour that combines expert guidance with astrophotography, offers two-hour experiences, avoids bright crowds, and has a stargazing guarantee.

Part 1 –

All ages welcome. We meet at our dark-sky location on the safe, comfortable slopes of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa—away from city lights. Relax in a reclining folding chair, sip hot chocolate, enjoy the cool mountain air, and watch the stars appear.

Part 2 –

Using our Celestron Origin smart telescope, we bring the universe to you—no eyepiece required. Controlled by an i Pad or smartphone, it produces stunning live images on-screen. See galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in real time while your astronomer explains each object and answers your questions.

Part 3 –

While you enjoy the view, our astro-photographer captures epic images of you and your group under the Milky Way. Medium-size digital files are included, with high-resolution upgrades available.

Itinerary

  • Led by an astronomer and astro-photographer, our tours avoid the crowded Onizuka Visitor Center and take place at quiet, remote locations on Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa. Time slots are handpicked to avoid bright moonlight and maximize your view of the night sky. Each 2-hour experience includes: • A guided star talk by our astronomer using a Celestron Origin smart telescope • Close-up telescope views of deep sky objects like nebulas, star clusters, and galaxies • Complimentary portraits taken by our astro-photographer with the Milky Way as your backdrop • Medium-resolution photos included at no extra cost • A stargazing guarantee — if the stars don’t show, the tour is free (120 mins)

What’s Included

Inclusions

  • Parka Jackets
  • Professional photographer guide
  • All activities
  • Complimentary Medium Resolution Photos

Exclusions

  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Optional Photo Upgrades Available

Meeting & Logistics

Text us 6 hours prior to your tour for an updated meeting location, we meet at other locations on Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa. If you have an international phone number, please send us a local contact number once you have it. Send us your email address if you want the photos after the tour.

Meeting Point

Hawaii

Additional Info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Dress code: Wear pants and closed-toed shoes
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Weather can reach 30F. We have parka jackets that have pockets and a hood, although that may not be enough for some
  • Not recommended for travelers with any mobility/ambulatory restrictions, back, heart and hearing problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Pregnant Travelers should discuss with their doctor before hand.
  • Not suitable for some senior citizens
  • Not recommended for chronic complainers ;)

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Why Book With Us

  • ✔ Free Cancellation on Most Activities
  • ⚡ Instant Confirmation
  • 🔒 Secure Online Booking
  • 🌴 Trusted Hawaii Site Since 2006
  • 🤝 Official Viator Partner (est. 1995)