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Daytime Tours

Kitt Peak National Observatory is closed to visitors.

We’re aware that many people are eager to come visit Kitt Peak by car, bicycles or even on foot. The public Arizona State Route 386 up to Kitt Peak National Observatory is still closed by ADOT while it makes necessary repairs to the road and guard rails after damage from the Contreras Fire. For this reason, all public programs and tours, including online workshops, at KPNO are suspended due to the effects of the Contreras Fire on the site.

No one may visit the observatory after 4:00 pm unless registered for a Nighttime program.

Be cautious and respectful of wildlife; do not feed, pursue, or approach wildlife
Stay with your guide and group
No rock climbing or bouldering
Stay out of recently burned areas
If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness (dizziness, severe headache, etc) let your guide know immediately
Be aware that high winds can make doors (on both cars and buildings) dangerous

Free Self-Guided Tours

When we reopen self-guided Tour maps will be available in the Visitor Center Gift Shop. Visitors are permitted to walk around observatory grounds during the Visitor Center’s normal hours of operation. Visitors are allowed to enter facilities marked for visitor entrance. Because Kitt Peak is a working research facility, visitors should stay on paved roads and walking areas. Please do not enter any facilities not marked for visitors.

These programs are free to members of the Tohono O’odham Nation (TON Tribal IDs will be checked at the arrival).
No reservation required. Walk-ins welcome.

Daytime Tours

Free Self-Guided Tours

Map of telescopes at Kitt Peak National Observatory