About Maunakea and Rainbow Falls Private Tour
From the cool high slopes of Maunakea to the lush greenery surrounding Rainbow Falls, this private Hilo shore excursion brings together two very different sides of the Big Island. Departing from the Hilo Pier, the tour is designed for up to six guests per vehicle and can be customized within your designated time.
Travel more than 9,000 feet above sea level to the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy, where open volcanic landscapes and wide island views surround one of Hawaii's most meaningful cultural places. Learn about the sacred significance of Maunakea, discover rare endemic plants adapted to the high-altitude environment and see the mountain that is home to world-class telescopes.
The tour then returns to Hilo's tropical side for a visit to Rainbow Falls. This 80-foot waterfall spills over a lava cave surrounded by dense greenery and a mango orchard. Also known as Waianuenue, meaning rainbow [seen in] water, the falls are connected to the story of Hina, the Hawaiian moon goddess and mother of the demigod Maui. When sunlight catches the mist, colorful rainbows may appear above the water.
The tour is fully customizable, with options to add stops for a meal, coffee or other attractions within your designated time.
Tour Highlights
- Maunakea: Boasts breathtaking landscapes and is one of the tallest mountains in the world when measured from its base on the ocean floor
- Onizuka Center for International Astronomy: Home to some of the most advanced telescopes in the world
- Rainbow Falls: 80-foot waterfall named for the vibrant rainbows that often form in its mist
Special Instructions
Meeting details, important notes and helpful information for your experience.
Where & When
Departs Hilo Harbor at requested tour time. Tour duration is 4 hours.
Restrictions
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made outside of 48 hours from service day are subject to a 10% cancellation fee. Cancellations made less than 48 hours from service day are non-refundable. If you would like to make a change to your reservation outside of 48 hours, if there is availability, we may be able to accommodate. Please call our reservations office at 1-866-482-9775 or 808-892-2082.
Altitude Warning:
Maunakea Observatory is 9,200 feet (2,800 m) above sea level. Due to the elevation, please carefully review the health conditions before booking.
Health Restrictions:
Due to the health risks associated with high altitude, the following individuals are not eligible for this tour:
Heart conditions
Respiratory conditions
Pregnant women
Participants must not have engaged in scuba diving within 24 hours of the tour
Special Notes
This 4-hour private tour is fully customizable within your designated tour time and includes two pre-determined stops at Maunakea Onizuka Observatory.
Due to limited availability, we require that ADA vehicle reservations be made a minimum of 48 hours prior to the date and time of service. We require wheelchairs to be collapsible and stored in the trunk of the SUV when on the road.
Roberts will make all reasonable attempts to accommodate the needs of the disabled traveler.
Operation Days
Based on ship schedule
Duration
4 hours
Equipment
Private 44 SUV
Vendor
This activity is operated by Roberts Hawaii Shore Excursions.
Questions about this activity?
We’re happy to help with your choices, booking details or an existing reservation.
