Arriving on the Big Island, there are a few things that immediately stand out. The first is the desolation that you feel when you arrive to the airport and the quiet that you hear all around. And this is not a bad thing at all. The island is a place to go for a true escape and a visit to the island emits a feeling of calm that makes you want to take full advantage of the chance to rest and relax. The next things that immediately stand out are two of the most notable destinations on the island: Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

Mauna Kea is easily seen from all around the island, and its presence is imposing, rising high into the sky as it overlooks the island. The mountain is a dormant shield volcano that last erupted about 4,000 years ago, and has long been an important site in Hawaii history and culture. The summit of the volcano is the highest point in Hawaii and receives annual snowfall that often surprises visitors. After all, you wouldn't expect to see snow in an island paradise like Hawaii, but due to the height of the mountain, the temperatures plummet which creates the perfect conditions for snow.

When measured from its base on the sea floor, Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world, even taller than Mount Everest. However, since nearly 20,000 feet of the mountain that is beneath the ocean, it is only the 15th tallest mountain in the world. That doesn't stop it from being an incredible Hawaii destination to visit. Though activity is somewhat limited, you can visit the summit and witness the most amazing view of the sky that you can imagine. There are both sunrise and sunset experiences that show off the incredible beauty of the Hawaiian Islands, and from way up at the summit, you will have views of the island that will take your breath away. And not because the air is so thin up there!

Tours available on Mauna Kea include:
Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Adventure
Mauna Kea Sunrise Experience

Mauna Kea is so much more than a dormant volcano or a place to witness the beauty of the Earth. It is also a place where great research is conducted. Scientists utilize the many powerful telescopes that are stationed here to study the universe. The chance to visit one of the tallest mountains in the world during a visit to the Big Island should not be missed. The incredible beauty from the summit cannot be matched, and you will have views of the sky and the island that many do not get.  

Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Kona tours and Kona activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.