Collect native seeds, then watch sunset and stargaze from Maunakea’s summit
Around 9 to 10 hours
Dinner, hot chocolate, gear
Help restore a rare dry forest on Maunakea’s slopes, then head up for sunset and a guided star show. Your day includes conservation work, a warm picnic dinner, and telescope viewing.
Ages 13+ only. Expect about half a mile of walking on uneven, rocky terrain; you must be able to enter and exit the vehicles on your own. Due to altitude, this tour is not advised for those with respiratory, circulatory, or heart conditions, pregnancy, or poor health; do not go to the summit within 24 hours after scuba diving.
Full refund with 24 hours' notice of cancellation. Private tours: full refund with 72 hours' notice. Cancellations within the cancellation period and no-shows are charged the full amount.
Bring a reusable water bottle and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. Dress in layers for changing conditions from hot and sunny at the Dry Forest to cold and windy at the summit; a sweatshirt or sweater is recommended. Warm wear (hooded parkas and gloves) is provided.
Plan for up to about half a mile of walking on uneven, rocky terrain, mostly at the Dry Forest. You should be able to hike on uneven terrain, sometimes in cool, wet, or muddy conditions.
Due to the high altitude, this experience is not advised if you have respiratory, circulatory, or heart conditions, are pregnant, or are in poor health. If you scuba dive, do not go to the summit within 24 hours after diving.
King Kamehameha Courtyard Marriott, Four Seasons Resort, Queens' Marketplace, and Waikoloa Plaza
Hawaii Forest & Trail has built a strong reputation across a wide range of Big Island experiences, from Mauna Kea summit and stargazing tours to waterfall hikes, birding excursions, and volcano adventures. The variety alone is impressive, but what consistently stands out in traveler feedback is the quality of the guides. Names like Jason, Dave, Jeff, Jon, Willy, and Wilson come up again and again, each praised for deep local knowledge, genuine enthusiasm, and a talent for making guests feel looked after throughout the day. Small group sizes and thoughtful logistics seem to be part of the formula here. Even self-described hardcore birders who prefer going solo have come away pleasantly surprised, noting that the pacing and group dynamics actually enhanced the experience rather than getting in the way. Tours are described as well-organized, with comfortable transportation, meals included on longer outings, and guides who weave in Hawaiian culture, history, and geology naturally throughout. With a near-perfect rating across hundreds of reviews, this is clearly a provider that delivers consistently, not just on the headline experience but on the details that make a trip memorable. If you're visiting the Big Island and want a guided outdoor experience that feels personal rather than generic, this is a strong choice.
Great tour! Our guide Dave was fantastic, we learned so much about the Volcanos, Hawaii in general, and of course how chocolate is made. Highly recommend this tour!
Sara Chaffee
May 14, 2026
Great tour! Our guide Dave was fantastic, we learned so much about the Volcanos, Hawaii in general, and of course how chocolate is made. Highly recommend this tour!
Sara Chaffee
May 14, 2026