Discover the wonders of the universe and marvel at Earth’s immense geological forces and the undersea world during this unique tour of the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Hawai’i.

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Starting at: $8,635 * Price includes special offer Make a Reservation Ask Us A Question or Call 855-330-1542

Viewing center and observatory at Haleakala

Volcanoes National Park, island of Hawai'i

One of many scenic waterfalls in Hawai'i

Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawai’i

8 days from $8,635

Discover the wonders of the universe and marvel at Earth’s immense geological forces and the undersea world during this unique tour of the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Hawai’i.

departure passengers

or Call 855-330-1542

Tour Details

JOURNEYS DISPATCHES

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Overview

This unique natural history tour of Hawai’i focuses on the wonders of the universe, the Earth’s immense geological forces, and the amazing world under the sea. Discover the islands of Maui and Hawai’i through the lens of astronomers, geologists, and marine scientists, and through native Hawaiian culture and history.

Highlights Include

Maui: Ascend to the summit of Haleakala for a behind-the-scenes tour of one of the telescopes at the Haleakala Observatory site. Pan-STARRS utilizes very large digital cameras, telescopes, and computing facilities in its search for new asteroids, comets, and other celestial objects. Then enjoy spectacular vistas of Maui from Haleakala National Park. During a nature walk, marvel at the volcano’s moon-like crater and learn about endemic plants and native birds. Later, take a private tour of the Maui Ocean Center, where a marine biologist provides insight into this three-acre tropical reef aquarium and marine science center. And learn more about the night sky from an astronomer during a stargazing cruise aboard a catamaran in Ma’alaea Harbor.
Hawai’i: Trace the history of traditional Hawaiian celestial navigation during a curator-led tour of the Imiloa Astronomy Center and watch a planetarium show about the night skies. Stop in Hilo, a traditional Hawaiian town located on a picturesque bay on the windward side of the Big Island. Explore the farmers market, parks, shops, and visit one to the telescope headquarters located in Hilo to learn about the innovative research being done at the summit. (Should the Mauna Kea Observatory Complex be accessible, travelers will instead ascend to the summit and meet scientists at Smithsonian’s Submillimeter Array.) Gain insight from a resident geologist at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa and the volcano goddess Pele. Observe the volcanic activity from Steaming Bluff and view exhibits at Kilauea Visitor Center. Descend along the Chain of Craters Road to view huge mounds of black lava flows. Take a walk in the North Kohala backcountry, known for its waterfalls and breathtaking views.
Accommodations: Enjoy stays at delightful hotels that feature spectacular views, luxurious pools, gardens, and beach, plus another stay near Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
Please note: Our October 2022 itinerary is one day longer, see itinerary for full details.

To see itinerary, please click on an option below.

2023 Itinerary

Day 1 — Home / Kahului, Maui

Fly to Maui and transfer to your hotel on the west coast of Maui at the base of Haleakala. Enjoy an evening welcome orientation and reception featuring a generous selection of snacks and hors d’oeuvres. Dinner will be independently. (R)

Fairmont Kea Lani

Day 2 — Wailea

After a morning lecture and free time, join a marine biologist for a private tour of the Maui Ocean Center, a three-acre tropical reef aquarium and marine science center with thousands of marine species that can be viewed in living coral reefs. This evening, board a catamaran in Ma’alaea Harbor for a stargazing cruise with appetizers and drinks. (B,R)

Fairmont Kea Lani

Day 3 —Haleakala National Park

This morning, drive to the summit of Haleakala for a behind-the-scenes tour of one of the telescopes at the Haleakala Observatory site. Pan-STARRS uses very large digital cameras to observe the entire available sky several times a month, looking for objects such as asteroids and comets that might pose a danger to Earth.

Following a telescope tour, enjoy the spectacular vistas at scenic outlooks and marvel at the volcano’s moon-like crater. At the Haleakala National Park Visitor Center, learn about the unique geology of the islands and go on nature walks to search for native birds and endemic plants such as Silversword and Sandalwood.

Return to the hotel mid-afternoon to relax and enjoy the resort facilities before dining at one of the many fine restaurants in the area. (B,L)

Fairmont Kea Lani

Day 4 — Kahului / Hilo, Hawa'ii / Volcano Village

Fly from Maui to Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai'i. During a curator-guided tour of the Imiloa Astronomy Center, explore exhibits relating to astronomy and watch a planetarium show about the night skies.

Drive from sea level to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park at 4,000 feet, observing the dramatic change in botanic and volcanic scenery. (B,L,D)

Kilauea Lodge

Day 5 — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

Accompanied by a local geologist, explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including Steaming Bluff, Kilauea Visitor Center, Volcano Art Gallery, and vistas of Halemaumau Crater. Descend along the Chain of Craters Road, noting the pioneer plants colonizing the huge lava-draped mountainsides, and the Mauna Ulu flows. (B,L)

Kilauea Lodge

Day 6 — Hilo / Stargazing

This morning depart for Hilo, located in a picturesque bay on the windward side of the Big Island . Enjoy time on your own to explore the farmers market, parks, shops, and restaurants in this traditional Hawaiian town. Hilo is the headquarters of Smithsonian’s Submillimeter Array Telescope (SMA) that is located atop Mauna Kea. If the Mauna Kea access road is open, enjoy a behind the scene tour of the telescope on the summit. If it is closed, learn about the SMA at the headquarters in Hilo.

In the afternoon make your way across the island on the Saddle road with majestic mountains flanking both sides of the road, Mauna Kea (13,796 feet) on your right and Mauna Loa (13,679 feet) on your left. On the slopes of Mauna Kea marvel at a spectacular sunset followed by a picnic dinner and a stargazing safari through powerful 11-inch Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes.

This evening, arrive at the beautiful Fairmont Orchid, set amid tropical gardens, lava formations, and beaches on the South Kohala Coast. (B,D)

Please note: The road leading to the Mauna Kea Observatory Complex and the Smithsonian’s Submillimeter Array, on the summit of Mauna Kea at an elevation of 13,796 feet, can close to public access on very short notice due to weather or other issues. Should the summit road be open prior to our visit, we will assess if we can access the site, and if feasible, revise the itinerary to include this stop instead of the headquarters in Hilo.

Fairmont Orchid

Day 7 — North Kohala Coast

Enjoy a backcountry excursion in the heart of the North Kohala countryside, once home to large sugar cane plantations, on the northern point of the island. Explore the extraordinary natural history on an easy hike (up to 2 miles) that includes a series of waterfalls and magnificent views.

This evening, celebrate your adventure with a festive farewell reception and dinner. (B,L,R,D)

Fairmont Orchid

Day 8 — South Kohala Coast / Kona / Home

Transfer to the airport in Kona for your flights home. (B)

Included meals are denoted as follows: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Reception (R), Dinner (D)