Sunset and Telescopes at 10,000 Feet: Seven People, Warm Coats and Hot Drinks

Five to six hours that end after dark, with seven people at most and one guide. The drive climbs into Haleakalā National Park to the summit at 10,000 feet, with the geology of Maui and the plants and animals that manage to live up there explained on the way. Sunset comes first, from one of the highest vantage points on the island, over the crater. Then the telescope. The sky above Haleakalā is the clearest on Maui, and what comes out in it is stars and planets rather than a general impression of stars. If you want photographs, the guide helps you set up your phone or camera for night shooting, which is the difference between a black frame and something worth keeping. The summit is cold after sunset. Warm outer clothing, proper chairs and hot drinks are provided, so the evening is spent sitting and looking rather than shivering and leaving. The meeting point is at 81 Ahuwale Place in Makawao, and the tour returns there. Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund.