Discover the enigmatic wonders of Easter Island on this comprehensive full-day tour. Visitors will be awestruck by the towering moai statues at Ahu Tongariki, before trekking to the ancient quarry of Rano Raraku. Here, they’ll uncover the engineering marvel behind these iconic monoliths. The tour culminates at the picturesque Anakena Beach, where travelers can relax and soak up the island’s serene ambiance. With an expert archeologist guide, this immersive experience promises to shed light on the captivating history and culture of the Rapa Nui people. What secrets await as you delve deeper into this remote South Pacific wonder?
Key Points
- The full-day tour explores iconic moai sculptures, including visits to significant ceremonial sites such as Ahu Akahanga, Ahu Tongariki, and Ahu Te Pito Kura.
- Trekking to the Rano Raraku quarry offers insights into the quarrying techniques and engineering prowess of the ancient Rapa Nui civilization.
- The tour includes a relaxing visit to the serene Anakena Beach, where travelers can swim and enjoy a BBQ lunch.
- An experienced archeologist guide provides historical and cultural insights throughout the tour, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation and covers all entrance fees to the Rapa Nui National Park and moai sites.
Tour Overview
The full-day tour of southeastern and northeastern Easter Island from Hanga Roa allows visitors to explore the iconic moai sculptures with an experienced archeologist guide.
The tour takes participants to significant ceremonial sites, including Ahu Akahanga, Ahu Tongariki, Ahu Te Pito Kura, and Ahu Nau Nau.
Trekkers will also visit the Rano Raraku quarry, where over 300 moai were carved.
The day concludes with relaxation and swimming at the picturesque Anakena Beach.
The tour includes a BBQ lunch and round-trip transportation from hotels in the Rapa Nui urban zone.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience to learn about the rich history and culture of Easter Island.
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Itinerary Highlights
Visitors can explore the burial ground of King Hoto Matu’a at Ahu Akahanga, featuring a dozen moai.
The highlight of the tour is Ahu Tongariki, the largest ceremonial site with 15 moai sculptures. Here, guests will learn about the devastating 1960 tsunami that damaged the site.
Next, the tour heads to the volcanic slopes of Rano Raraku, the quarry where over 300 moai were carved. Visitors can observe the partially buried moai statues still in the quarry.
The final stop is Ahu Te Pito Kura, where the largest moai statue – standing 33 feet tall and weighing 82 tons – can be viewed.
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Explore Ahu Akahanga, the burial ground of King Hoto Matu’a
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Visit the impressive Ahu Tongariki with 15 moai sculptures
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Hike the volcanic slopes of Rano Raraku, the moai quarry
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View the massive 33-foot, 82-ton moai statue at Ahu Te Pito Kura
Ahu Akahanga
At Ahu Akahanga, one can explore the burial ground of King Hoto Matu’a, which features a dozen moai statues. This important ceremonial site offers a glimpse into the island’s history and the cultural significance of the iconic stone figures.
Site Features | Description |
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Moai Statues | 12 moai sculptures at the site |
Burial Ground | Final resting place of King Hoto Matu’a |
Ceremonial Importance | Significant religious and cultural significance |
The tour allows visitors to wander among the impressive moai, learning about their construction, symbolism, and the rituals that once took place at this ancient site. Ahu Akahanga provides a compelling introduction to the mysteries of Easter Island.
Ahu Tongariki
Ahu Tongariki stands as the largest ceremonial site on Easter Island, showcasing an impressive row of 15 majestic moai statues against the backdrop of the island’s rugged volcanic landscape.
The site is renowned for its dramatic history, having been destroyed by a 1960 tsunami that toppled the statues and scattered them across the ground. Today, the moai have been painstakingly restored to their original positions, offering visitors a powerful glimpse into the island’s past.
Key features of Ahu Tongariki include:
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The sheer scale and grandeur of the 15 towering moai statues
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The site’s profound spiritual and ceremonial significance for the Rapa Nui people
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The dramatic contrast between the imposing moai and the surrounding volcanic scenery
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The site’s role in the island’s recovery from the devastating 1960 tsunami
Rano Raraku
The volcanic slopes of Rano Raraku, the famed moai quarry, beckon visitors to explore the partially buried statues that were once carved from its mineral-rich rock.
As you hike up the slopes, you’ll be struck by the sheer scale and number of these colossal figures, many of which remain in various stages of completion.
Your guide will provide insights into the quarrying techniques and challenges the Rapa Nui people faced in extracting and transporting these massive sculptures.
Witnessing the unfinished moai frozen in time is a humbling experience, offering a glimpse into the immense effort and engineering prowess of this ancient civilization.
- Private Tour: Full-Day Easter Island Archeological Sites
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- Full Day Tour in Rapa Nui
- Easter Island Moai Archaeology Tour: Ahu Akivi, Ahu Tahai and Puna Pauâ Quarry.
- Full Day Private Tour: Factory of the Moai the Stone Giants
- Half Day Private Tour: Rano Kau and Orongo the City of Kings
Ahu Te Pito Kura
Among the most impressive monuments on Easter Island, Ahu Te Pito Kura stands out for its colossal moai statue, measuring an astounding 33 feet (9.8 meters) tall and weighing 82 tons (74 metric tons).
This towering figure, one of the largest on the island, offers a powerful glimpse into the engineering prowess and cultural significance of the Rapa Nui people.
Visitors to Ahu Te Pito Kura can:
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Marvel at the sheer size and scale of the moai statue
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Explore the surrounding ceremonial site and its archaeological features
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Learn about the complex rituals and beliefs that shaped the island’s ancient civilization
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Appreciate the dramatic volcanic landscape that frames this awe-inspiring monument
Anakena Beach
Nestled along the northern coast of Easter Island, Anakena Beach offers visitors a serene respite from the island’s more renowned archaeological sites.
Boasting soft, golden sands and crystal-clear waters, this picturesque beach provides an idyllic setting for relaxation, swimming, and appreciating the dramatic volcanic landscape that surrounds it.
After a day of exploring the island’s iconic moai statues, travelers can unwind and soak up the sun at Anakena.
The tour concludes with ample time to enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean and reflect on the remarkable cultural heritage that defines Easter Island.
With its stunning natural beauty, Anakena Beach is a perfect complement to the awe-inspiring archaeological wonders found elsewhere on the island.
Inclusions and Logistics
After exploring the stunning natural beauty of Anakena Beach, the tour provides a comprehensive set of inclusions and logistical details to ensure a seamless experience for visitors.
The tour includes an experienced archeologist guide who provides historical insights throughout the day. Guests enjoy air-conditioned van transport and a delectable BBQ lunch featuring grilled chicken, fresh fish, salad, and rice.
The tour also covers all entrance fees to Rapa Nui National Park and the iconic moai sites. To ensure a personalized experience, the group size is capped at 10 travelers.
The tour’s inclusions and logistics cover the essentials:
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Professional guide for historical insights
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Air-conditioned van transport
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BBQ lunch with grilled meats, fish, and sides
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Entrance fees to national park and moai sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Currency Used on Easter Island?
The currency used on Easter Island is the Chilean peso. Rapa Nui, the indigenous name for Easter Island, is a special territory of Chile, so the Chilean peso is the legal tender for all transactions on the island.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at Any of the Sites?
Travelers can purchase souvenirs at various locations on Easter Island, including the moai sites and Anakena Beach. Many local vendors offer a range of handicrafts, artwork, and traditional items for visitors to take home as mementos.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
The tour does not offer a private option. It’s a small group tour with a maximum of 10 travelers. Private tours may be available upon request, but they’re not part of the standard tour package described in the provided information.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a BBQ lunch, and the policy is designed to provide a consistent experience for all participants. Bringing outside items isn’t permitted.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Easter Island?
Travelers visiting Easter Island from most countries generally don’t need a visa if their stay is less than 90 days. However, it’s essential to check the latest visa requirements with the Chilean embassy or consulate prior to travel.
Recap
This full-day Easter Island tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the island’s remarkable history and natural beauty.
From the awe-inspiring Ahu Tongariki to the tranquil Anakena Beach, travelers will be captivated by the island’s unique archaeology and landscapes.
With an experienced guide, visitors can explore the engineering feats of the Rapa Nui civilization and gain a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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