![]() ![]() Wait a day after flying to the island before going up to the summit and don't scuba dive before an ascent. Dryness, cold, and increased UV radiation also contribute to discomfort. The stress caused by the high altitude environment can also worsen any existing health problems. ![]() Altitude sickness is a risk for all and everyone will experience a reduction in their physical and mental capabilities. The air pressure at the summit is less than 60% of that at sea level, and the body must work hard to obtain oxygen. Even those that normally have no problem at high altitudes on the mainland can have problems due to the immense difference in the altitude driving up from sea level. It is critical to take the time to adjust to the altitude. This includes a one hour rest at the Onizuka Visitor Information Station at the 9000 ft (2800 m) level of Mauna Kea to acclimatize to the high altitude. The drive from Hilo or Kona to the Mauna Kea summit area takes approximately 3 hours, depending on the weather and traffic. The extremely high altitude combined with starting at sea level makes the drive up to the telescopes potentially hazardous to ones health. Or you can hire a driver to take you to the summit on their vehicle.īack to top Precautions for visiting Mauna Kea Summit They provide food, beverages and warm clothes. This is the SUV we rented.īefore starting out, check the weather on Mauna Kea and look at the telescopes via CAMs realtime.Īnother option is to take a Mauna Kea star tour from a company that drives 4WD vans to the Visitors center and then on up to the summit. We rented a 4WD from Harper Car and Truck in Kona. At the summit, the road is paved, but can be treacherous with ice and snow. The road to the visitor's center is fully paved, but beyond that, the road becomes rough dirt and requires a 4WD. In order to get to the summit of Mauna Kea, you need to rent a four wheel drive (4WD) vehicle from a rental company that grants permission to use the summit road. Precautions for Visiting Mauna Kea Summit.If you want to brave the cold and extreme altitude of Mauna Kea's 13,796 foot (4205 m) summit here are some tips and personal experiences. Hawaii Telescope Tour TOUR A TELESCOPE IN HAWAII Mauna Kea Summit Tour ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |