Ahu Akivi is a remarkable site on Easter Island, home to the iconic Seven Moai statues. Unlike the more famous Moai sites, these figures face the ocean, symbolizing a unique connection between the Rapa Nui people and the surrounding sea. Believed to represent powerful ancestral figures, the Moai showcase the incredible artistry of the island’s indigenous culture. Beyond their cultural significance, the Moai offer visitors breathtaking views of the dramatic coastal landscape, making Ahu Akivi a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the mysteries of Easter Island. What secrets might these enigmatic statues hold, and what can they reveal about the island’s past?

Key Points

Ahu Akivi The Seven Moais on Easter Island - Key Points

  • Ahu Akivi tour offers a half-day experience to explore the seven Moai statues on Easter Island, Chile.
  • The tour includes a professional guide who provides insights into the history and significance of the Moai statues.
  • The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and departs and returns to Hanga Roa, with a maximum of 20 travelers.
  • The tour package includes entrance fees and transportation, but excludes extras, gratuities, and is not available for cruise passengers.
  • The tour requires moderate physical ability and preparation, as it involves exploring the Moai platform and scenic caves, which may have slippery conditions.

Tour Overview

The Ahu Akivi tour on Easter Island offers a half-day experience to explore the remarkable Moai statues at this archaeological site.

The tour starts at 2:30 PM and is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers. A professional guide is included to provide insights into the history and significance of the seven Moai statues.

The tour departs from and returns to the meeting point in Hanga Roa, Easter Island. Entrance fees and transfers are included, while extras, gratuities, and cruise passenger exclusions apply.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.

Location and Duration

Ahu Akivi The Seven Moais on Easter Island - Location and Duration

The Ahu Akivi Moais are located on Easter Island, a remote and iconic destination off the coast of Chile.

This half-day tour takes visitors to explore the seven Moai statues situated at Ahu Akivi. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 2:30 PM.

The meeting point is in Hanga Roa, the main town on Easter Island, with the tour returning to the same location. The tour has a maximum of 20 participants and is led by a professional guide.

Key details include:

  1. Location: Easter Island, Chile
  2. Duration: Half-Day Experience
  3. Start Time: 2:30 PM
  4. Maximum Participants: 20 travelers

Meeting and End Point

Ahu Akivi The Seven Moais on Easter Island - Meeting and End Point

Upon booking the tour, travelers receive confirmation of the meeting point, which is located in Hanga Roa, the main town on Easter Island.

From there, the group is transported to the Ahu Akivi site, where the famous seven moai statues are situated.

At the end of the tour, visitors are returned to the original meeting point in Hanga Roa.

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t available for cruise passengers.

Travelers should arrive prepared with comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen to make the most of their half-day experience exploring the enigmatic moai and their stunning coastal setting.

Included and Excluded

Ahu Akivi The Seven Moais on Easter Island - Included and Excluded

The tour package comes with several inclusions, such as the entrance fee, transportation to and from the meeting point, and the services of a professional guide.

However, there are a few exclusions to be aware of:

  • Extras not detailed in the itinerary
  • Gratuities
  • Not valid for cruise passengers

While the inclusions cover the core tour experience, travelers should budget for additional expenses like tips and any optional activities.

It’s important to review the details carefully to ensure the tour meets one’s expectations and budget.

Accessibility and Preparation

According to the information provided, the Ahu Akivi tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable clothes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. This is a half-day experience, so appropriate preparation is key.

The tour includes a visit to the moai platform, caves, and a mount for moai hats extraction. While the views from the mount are scenic, the caves reportedly have slippery and muddy conditions.

Travelers should be prepared for these moderate physical demands. Overall, most travelers can participate, but accessibility and preparation are important considerations for this tour on Easter Island.

Confirmation and Participation

At the time of booking, travelers receive confirmation details for the Ahu Akivi tour. This includes the meeting point location in Hanga Roa, Easter Island, and the scheduled start time of 2:30 PM.

The tour has a maximum of 20 participants, ensuring an intimate experience. Based on the reviews, most travelers can participate in this half-day excursion, which includes:

  1. Exploring the mount for moai hat extraction
  2. Visiting the platform with the seven moais
  3. Navigating the scenic caves
  4. Returning to the original meeting point at the end of the tour.

Review Summary

Ahu Akivi The Seven Moais on Easter Island - Review Summary

Reviewing the summary of the Ahu Akivi tour on Easter Island, travelers have provided a mixed assessment of their experiences. While the tour includes highlights such as the moai platform and scenic views, there have been some issues reported as well.

Rating Number of Reviews
5 stars 0
4 stars 0
3 stars 0
2 stars 0
1 star 0

Some travelers noted difficulties navigating the caves and found the tour price of $160 high without proper guidance. The Ahu Akivi tour seems to have room for improvement to enhance the visitor experience.

Traveler Experiences

Travelers have provided a mix of positive and negative feedback regarding their experiences with the Ahu Akivi tour on Easter Island. Some found the tour engaging, with scenic views from the mount and an interesting experience at the moai platform.

However, others reported issues, including:

  1. Lack of communication about the meeting point, leading to missed tours.
  2. Difficulties navigating the caves due to slippery and muddy conditions.
  3. Perceived high price ($160) without adequate guidance.
  4. The Ahu Akivi tour seems to have room for improvement in terms of logistics, safety, and value for money.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Significance of the Ahu Akivi Moai?

The Ahu Akivi moai are unique as they’re the only ones that face the ocean, rather than inward. They’re believed to represent the seven explorers who, according to legend, were sent by the Chief to await his return.

Can Visitors Interact With or Touch the Moai?

Visitors can’t interact with or touch the moai. While you can view them up close, the moai are protected and off-limits to physical contact to preserve their cultural significance and prevent damage.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should avoid touching the moai. The guides may provide guidance on appropriate photography protocols to preserve the fragile archeological site.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age or fitness restrictions, as most travelers can participate. However, the terrain can be challenging, so a reasonable level of physical ability is recommended. Comfortable clothing and footwear are advised for this half-day experience.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ahu Akivi?

The best time to visit Ahu Akivi is during the summer months of December through March, when the weather’s mild and dry. Crowds are smaller, and travelers can fully enjoy the site’s unique archaeological wonders.

Recap

Ahu Akivi’s Seven Moai statues are a captivating sight that draw visitors to Easter Island. Standing tall and facing the ocean, these iconic figures represent the island’s rich cultural heritage and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. A visit to this remarkable site is a must for travelers seeking to enjoy the Rapa Nui people’s remarkable artistry and spiritual connection to the sea.