Mauna Kea Summit Adventure
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Port
Hilo, Hawaii, US
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$279
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Welcome to Mauna Kea — the world's tallest oceanic mountain. Mauna Kea is 13,804 feet tall and is Hawaii's tallest volcano. It is also home to the most productive ground-based telescopes in the world. Galactic discoveries and Nobel prize-winning astronomy happen here.
Viewing the beautiful Big Island from the summit of Mauna Kea is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Be amazed by the breathtaking view above the clouds overlooking Hawaii’s west coast. Visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Center and its gift shop. This is also a rare opportunity to see one of the most endangered plants in the world — the Mauna Kea Silver Sword (ahinahina). The amazing Silver Sword plant only grows at high elevation on top of volcano tops.
Next, guests will visit Liliuokalani Gardens, a Japanese Edo Style Garden along the coast of Hilo Bay. See the black lava rock beach, marine life such as turtles and rays (occasionally) and our very own state bird the Nene Goose (occasionally). The gardens are truly a site to see in Hilo.
Notes:
The access road to the summit can close without prior warning. Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day. Wear long pants. The temperature can dip below freezing at the summit. Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat. Parkas and gloves are provided. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Terrain includes uneven and rocky ground. Guests who are pregnant or have a heart, respiratory, circulatory condition or general poor health are not allowed to participate. Scuba divers should be aware of elevation changes before or after a dive. Minimum age is 13 years. Tour does not operate on holidays.