Welcome to MKVIS
MAUNAKEA VISITOR INFORMATION STATION
The Maunakea Visitor Information Station
is currently closed
in response to the COVID-19 situation.
The VIS parking lot and portable toilets remain available to visitors at all times.
The move is being made as a health and safety measure as many other operations around the state and the world are conducting similar closures. We understand that the Visitor Information Center is helpful to those who visit Maunakea; however, we want to be prudent for the welfare of our visitors and our staff during this extraordinary time. We appreciate the understanding of the public. VIS administrators will continue to meet and discuss the latest developments to determine when operations should resume.
The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station is located on the Maunakea Access Road at 19°45'33"N Latitude and 155°27′22″W Longitude.
Due to the hazards of altitude sickness, pregnant women, persons in poor health, and children under 13 should NOT venture above the Visitor Information Station. Drivers are cautioned to use 4-wheel drive vehicles above the VIS because the road to the summit is unpaved, rough, and quite steep. Those traveling to the summit should always use 4WD Low Range to reduce brake failure and overheating.