Beautiful place. We did it without any tourist company. You end up going to the visitor center acclimating then heading up for the sunset. The view and experience was out of this world. That being said to get up there you absolute need a 4x4 car and one that can do 4L gears on the way down or you will burn your breaks to the point of failure. The park rangers will not let you go up without proper car, driving experience, and fully understand the risk which include acclamation sickness. If you are unsure of the drive and getting up there’s. I would suggest booking with a local company. They do the fancy photo shoot and what not. That being said it’s worth the trip, hike, and trek to get there. Bring warm clothing…it’s about 40f up there and sometimes gets colder.

Mauna Kea is a captivating natural wonder of the Hawaiian Islands. I recommend arriving at the summit before sunset to enjoy the incredible scenery. During sunset, a magical atmosphere unfolds, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Don't forget about the hour of acclimatization before the ascent, near the tourist center. This will help your body adapt to the high altitude and make your journey more comfortable. Enjoy the incredible beauty of Mauna Kea!

So so so worth the trip to the top for sunset!!! You need a 4 wheel drive vehicle. We were very glad to have some warmer clothes and jackets. Go early with time to acclimate at the lower parking lot (where the shop and restroom are). Someone suggested waiting 20-30 minutes there before driving up, especially for those more sensitive to higher elevations. Even if you’re used to higher elevations you might feel it at the top. We got mild headaches and dizziness when walking around at the top, but not bad. Worth it!

After 7 Mile drive up dirt roads that you need a 4x4 vehicle and acclimatize at the visitor center for a minimum of 30 minutes, It was well worth the wait. You literally drive through clouds and watch as the sky and the earth and the ocean meet. There is truly nothing like it anywhere else and it is an amazing view worth every minute of your drive and trip. This is probably one of the most breathtaking views and sites I've ever seen in my entire life. You're missing out if you do not go and visit. Probably one of the most recommended things to do on the island. Not to mention it's free and literally nothing else can compare. The whole trip was worth it for the views. Make sure to check the weather beforehand for clouds and whether or not it's going to be super cold and you would need extra layers.

The sunset view is spectacular. You do need to have 4x4 to go up. If you don't have one, you can request the people going up to give a ride. A french family of four are very kind enough to give me a ride. It's very chilly up. If you don't have proper clothing and feel cold easily, think again.

One of the best things I did on the big island. Watching the sunset and star gazing from almost 14'000 ft above. They offer tours but if you are an experienced 4x4 driver then just go yourself and save some bucks. You do have to wait 45 minutes to get adjusted to the altitude half way up.

An interesting place. Unless you have 4x4 or want to hike many many miles up a steep mountain, you can just visit the little information center. Staff was a mix of friendly and a younger gentleman who was sulky and more interested in his phone than anything else. The little gift shop only accepts cards and refused cash, which I find annoying. There is a couple of information displays and a cool model of how the observatories look. Outside you can walk a short hike up a steep hill for a great view. The other gated hike near the visitor center is extremely short and weak, with a single native offering platform and not much else. We enjoyed the drive up through the clouds and the hike up the hill, but if you are expecting a large visitor center you will be disappointed.

Must-have for entry to a four-wheel-drive rental car like a jeep Wrangler. impressed with the wonderful sunset from the clouds and the countless stargazing views. Watch out for altitude sickness. Padding or winter outwear is mandatory!