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Image by Peter Luo

🌄 Mauna Kea Private Sunset Tour 

✨ Watch the sun dip below the clouds from Hawaii’s tallest mountain and capture the magic forever with professional adventure photos.

Join us from Hilo town 🚐 and ride up the slopes of Mauna Kea (13,803 ft) for one of the most breathtaking sunsets on Earth. Our expert guides will share stories of the island and ensure you’re comfortable as you climb above the clouds. At the summit, your adventure photographer will capture stunning shots of you and your group 📸 so you can leave with more than just memories.

🌺 What’s Included

  • 🚐 Round-trip transportation from Hilo town

  • 🧥 Warm jackets for high-altitude comfort

  • 🍲 Snacks

  • 🌄 Summit sunset viewing (with included professional photos!)

  • 🌍 Expert local guide with geology & cultural knowledge

🌅 Your Adventure Itinerary

  • 🚐 Pickup in Hilo town: Start your journey with an easy ride.

  • 🌿 Scenic drive: Pass through lush forests and lunar-like volcanic landscapes.

  • Stop at the Visitor Center for 30 minutes to get used to the higher elevation

  • 🌄 Sunset at the summit: Watch the skies explode in colors above the clouds at 13,803 ft. Your adventure photographer will capture both candid and posed photos for you to keep forever.

  • 🚐 Return to Hilo town: Relax after an unforgettable adventure.

We are flexible with the itinerary, so feel free to ask us if you need a change!

🎒 What to Bring 

To make the most out of your adventure, here’s what we recommend packing:

✅ Warm clothing – Layers are key! Although we provide jackets, consider bringing a hoodie, sweater, and long pants for added comfort.
✅ Closed-toe shoes – Sneakers or hiking boots are best (no sandals or flip-flops).
✅ Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated, especially at high altitude.
✅ Sunglasses & sunscreen 🕶☀️ – The sun is strong at high elevations.
✅ Snacks 
✅ Camera or smartphone 📸 – Don’t worry, you’ll also get professional photos, but it’s fun to capture your own moments too!
✅ Personal medication – Especially if you have altitude sensitivity or need inhalers.

“The Mauna Kea Summit is at high altitude (13,796 ft / 4,205 m), which can affect anyone regardless of fitness level. Some people may experience mild altitude symptoms (like shortness of breath or headache). Please consult your doctor if you have any medical concerns or conditions, and do not take any medications unless recommended by your healthcare provider.”

Tips that are safe for everyone:

  • Drink plenty of water before and during the tour 💧

  • Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before the tour 🍷🍔

  • Walk slowly and pace yourself at the summit 🚶‍♂️

  • Let your guide know right away if you feel unwell 🙋

Mauna Kea Sunset Tour — Pricing & Packages

📍 Departure: Hilo Town
🕒 Tour Duration: ~6hours (2:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

What’s Included Price

🚐 Round-trip transportation from Hilo
🧥 Jackets
🌄 Sunset at Mauna Kea summit
📸 Professional adventure photos

🍲  Snacks

Private Adventure(Couples / Families)

Everything in the Classic Tour, fully private guide & photographer, flexible pace, customized photo session for $599 (2 people)+ $150 per additional guest

​If you are a solo traveler, don't worry - we can still take you to the top of Mauna Kea!

Solo Price: $399

Koolau Summit Tour: Welcome

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Mauna Kea Sunset Tour

1. Do I need to be in good shape for this tour?
💪 Not at all! While Mauna Kea is tall (over 13,000 ft / 4,200 m), we’ll be driving most of the way. You’ll only need to walk short distances near the summit to enjoy the views and take photos.

2. Is transportation included?
🚐 Yes! Pickup and drop-off from Hilo town are included in all packages. If you’re staying outside Hilo, we can help arrange meeting points or recommend shuttles.

3. What should I wear?
🧥 It gets very cold at the summit (around 0–5°C / 32–40°F), even if it’s sunny and warm at the beach. We provide jackets, but please wear long pants, closed shoes, and layer up!

4. Can someone with a heart condition join the tour?
We highly recommend asking your doctor about a high elevation trip if you have certain heart conditions, breathing problems, or other medical conditions.

5. Can kids join the tour?
👨‍👩‍👧 Children over 12 years old are welcome. Because of the high altitude, we don’t recommend this tour for younger kids.

6. What’s included in the photo package?
📸 An experienced adventure photographer will take candid and posed shots of you during the tour. You’ll receive edited digital photos after the trip, perfect for sharing or printing.

7. What if the weather is bad?
🌦 Mauna Kea weather can be unpredictable. If conditions make it unsafe to reach the summit, we’ll adjust the itinerary and still make sure you experience incredible views. If the tour is canceled due to weather, you’ll get a full refund or reschedule option.

Koolau Summit Tour: Pro Gallery
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