W. M. Keck Observatory headquarters is located at the foothills of Kohala Mountain in the heart of Waimea Town. Our town is known as Waimea but the post office calls it Kamuela so it is not confused with other Waimea towns on other islands. To book your air and ground transportation, be aware of the travel distance and available services to Keck Observatory. Generally most observers will choose to fly into the Kona airport (KOA).

* Approximate travel times to/from Keck Observatory headquarters

Rental car companies occasionally sell out of rental vehicles due to island events and holiday travel. Book well in advance to ensure a reserved vehicle. Below is a listing of rental car companies and other services the island has to offer.

Big Island Jeep Rental is currently the only company allowing their rental vehicles to be driven on the Maunakea access road. Rental automobiles can make the trip to Hale Pohaku, the mid-level support facility at 9,200 feet on Maunakea, but a four-wheel-drive vehicle (4WD) is required from Hale Pohaku to the observatories.

Observers are responsible for their own transportation including reservation, insurance and cost. Reservations are required for reliable service planned well in advance.