Hawaiian folklore claims that the God Maui lassoed the sun from its relentless speed across the sky to lengthen the day while he stood at the peak of Haleakala.
This legendary deed established the mountain’s significance as a link between the sky and the earth, endowing Haleakala with the impression of the “House of the Sun.”
Perhaps there is some truth to this legend, for when the sun breaks the darkness over Haleakala’s summit, the sky ignites with such flaming, muted colors that only a historical act of romance between our world and the heavens can possibly explain the spirit-charming sight that lies ahead.
One of the world’s largest dormant volcanoes, the Haleakala Summit, at 10,000 feet (3 km), is considered one of the leading destinations in the world for observing astronomical wonders.
This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets to the Haleakala Sunrise Tour.
Table of contents
What to expect at Haleakala Sunrise
Hop into an air-conditioned vehicle that will ferry you to the top of Haleakala before dawn, followed by a light continental breakfast.
Let your guide tell you folklore and stories of the ancient Hawaiian land and traditions as you wait eagerly for the breathtaking sunrise.
Witness the breaking of dawn as the flaming hues of an orange sun gradually begin to turn the deep blue sky into a tinted shade of wine and tangerine.
Experience a breathtaking sunrise at an elevation of 10,000 feet (3 km), where the ascending sun ignites your inner passions and paints the sky with vibrant splinters of orange brilliance, as you become one with the universe.
Otherworldly beauty will unfurl in all directions as lush greenery, ancient lava flows, and rock formations are illuminated. The light will cast remarkable hues and create dramatic shadows on the crater floor, transforming the landscape into a mesmerizing spectacle.
Watch the sun’s rays gradually illuminate the vastness of the crater as volcanic cinder cones and distinctive silversword plants (endemic to Maui) begin to appear.
After you have basked in the sunrise, ride a 29-inch mountain cycle to cruise down the stunning roads of Haleakala and enjoy the world-class switchback turns on the descending terrain.
Stop at Kona Lodge restaurant for an amazing valley view and sit-down breakfast, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Where to book tickets
Tickets to Maui Sunrise at Haleakala Tours are available online and at the visitor center of the Haleakala National Park.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out. Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments.
How do online tickets work
Visit the booking page for Sunrise at Haleakala.
Specify your planned travel date and the number of tickets.
Once you complete the booking process, the tickets will be mailed to you.
You do not need to carry printouts.
Show the e-ticket on your smartphone to the staff at the pick-up point. Carry a valid ID.
Haleakala Sunrise ticket price
For the Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui, the ticket cost for all ages above 15 is US$264.
The tour is not suitable for people under 15 years of age.
For the Majestic Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Pick-up, the ticket cost for all ages above 13 is US$250.
Seniors above the age of 60 can gain access at US$240.
Children aged between three and 12 can get access at US$230.
Infants under three are not charged anything.
For the Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Breakfast WEST SIDE Pickup, the ticket price for all ages is US$240.
For the Maui Haleakala Sunrise Downhill Bike Tour with Mountain Riders Rated #1, the ticket cost for all ages above 12 is US $249.
The tour is not suitable for people under 12 years of age.
Haleakala Sunrise tickets
There is a range of Haleakala sunrise tours for you to pick from.
You can pick one that best fits your style and comfort.
Please note that while some tours provide snacks and water, carrying your own water bottle and a few light snacks is best for your comfort.
A few tours do not cover the entrance fee to the Haleakala National Park.
Please look at the tour’s itinerary and details thoroughly before booking.
A professional guide will be present on all tours.
Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui
You will be picked up from a predetermined meeting point and be shuttled to the summit in an air-conditioned vehicle.
After seeing the sunrise, you will be provided with Kona 29-inch (2 feet) mountain bikes to cruise back down from 6500 ft (1.9 km).
Stunning switchback turns await you as the road descends.
You will be provided with windbreaker jackets, fleece vests, gloves, and all cycling equipment.
Please carry your own bottled water and snacks.
You will stop for breakfast and then indulge in a relaxing visit to the town of Makawao and Kula and learn about their history.
Meeting Point:810 Haiku Rd, Haiku, HI 96708, USA. Get Directions.
Ticket Price: US$264
Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Breakfast WEST SIDE Pickup
Tickets for this tour will get you hotel pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.
You will be transported to the summit, see the sunrise with a professional guide, and come back to have breakfast in a Kula Lodge restaurant, the costs of which will be covered.
Ticket Price: US$240
Majestic Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Pick-up
Tickets for this tour will get you hotel pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.
If you are staying at a location where pick-up is not possible, details of a meeting location will be sent to you.
This tour provides an excursion with a few stops on Crater Road for additional sightseeing, apart from the sunrise experience.
The tour also encapsulates two meals: a light breakfast right before sunrise and one after you return from your excursion.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$260
Senior Ticket (60+ years): US$250
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$240
Maui Haleakala Sunrise Downhill Bike Tour with Mountain Riders Rated #1
After being picked up from a predetermined meeting point, you will be taken to the top of the summit, see the sunrise, and then come down the Haleakala Summit on Mountain Bikes.
Bottled Water and Granola Bars will be provided to you.
You will also get to explore the towns of Makawao and Kula.
Meeting Point:497 Baldwin Ave, Paia, HI 96779, USA. Get Directions.
Ticket Price: US$249
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How to reach Haleakala National Park
Haleakalā National Park is on the Hawaiian island of Maui.
No public transportation on Maui will bring you into or near the Haleakalā National Park.
You can drive by booking a rental car, ride a bicycle, or book a commercial tour of the Haleakala National Park.
You can get the driving directions to the Haleakala National Park here.
Haleakala Sunrise timings
To visit the Haleakala sunrise, most tours, depending on their itinerary, will pick you up from your hotel between 2 am and 3 am.
Some tours provide a small breakfast at the viewing hut before sunrise.
How long does the tour take
The tour takes 6-8 hours to finish, depending on the nature and itinerary of your selected tour.
You will be dropped off at your hotel once the tour is over.
Best time to see Haleakala Sunrise
Sunrise in Maui will always be between 5 am and 7 am.
Please book a tour when clear skies are expected, and reach the top of Haleakala one hour before sunrise is predicted for the day.
FAQs about Haleakala Sunrise
Here are a few frequently asked questions about the Haleakala Sunrise:
The Haleakala Sunrise Tour requires trekking on rough terrain and is unfortunately unsuitable for people with mobility issues.
Participants must be at a moderate fitness level to take part in this tour.
A switchback trail, also known as a switchback path or switchback route, is a type of hiking or mountain trail designed to navigate steep or rugged terrain while minimizing the grade of ascent or descent.
Switchbacks are a series of sharp, zigzagging turns or hairpin curves that allow hikers, cyclists, or other travelers to traverse steep slopes or gradients more gradually.
Dress in layers, as temperatures at the summit can be quite cold before sunrise. Wear a warm jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
Yes, reservations are required to enter the park for sunrise due to limited parking availability
Yes, there are rules in place to protect the environment and ensure a peaceful experience.
No loud noises, such as radios, are allowed.
Additionally, visitors are asked to stay on designated trails and not disturb wildlife.
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