Orongo: the Mythical City of Kings

Perched atop the dramatic Rano Kau volcano, Orongo stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Easter Island. This ancient ceremonial village was once the seat of the island’s revered Birdman cult, where yearly competitions determined the sacred leader. Visitors can now explore the site’s intricate petroglyphs and enjoy the fascinating traditions of the Rapa Nui people. With breathtaking ocean vistas and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the mysteries of this mythical city – a journey that promises to captivate the senses and ignite the imagination.

Key Points

• Orongo was an ancient ceremonial village and the seat of the Birdman cult on Easter Island, showcasing intricate petroglyphs and stone dwellings.
• The tour explores the cultural and religious significance of Orongo, delving into the mythology and rituals of the Birdman competition.
• Visitors can marvel at the dramatic cliffs and breathtaking ocean vistas surrounding the Orongo site, seeing the captivating world of Rapa Nui.
• The tour also includes a visit to the Rano Kau volcanic crater, providing insights into the island’s natural wonders and geological history.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the understanding of Rapa Nui’s ancient traditions and the significance of the landmarks visited during the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Orongo: The mythical city of kings," is priced from $169.00 per person and lasts 3 to 4 hours.

Offered in French, English, and Spanish, it features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Guests are picked up on Easter Island, then travel by car to the Rano Kau volcano for a guided tour and sightseeing.

Next, they’ll explore the historical site of Orongo, known for its cultural and religious significance.

The tour also includes a visit to Ahu Vinapu, where participants can view petroglyphs and enjoy scenic ocean views.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel on Easter Island. You’ll then travel by car for 15 minutes to the Rano Kau volcano, a sacred site for the ancient Rapa Nui people. After a guided tour and sightseeing, the journey continues to the iconic Orongo site for another 50 minutes of exploration. The tour culminates with a 20-minute car ride to Ahu Vinapu, where you’ll have a photo stop and guided walk.

Stop	Duration	Activities
Rano Kau	30 minutes	Guided tour, sightseeing, walk
Orongo	50 minutes	Guided tour, walk, scenic views
Ahu Vinapu	40 minutes	Photo stop, visit, guided tour, walk

Exploring Rano Kau

Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Easter Island, the Rano Kau volcano stands as a testament to the island’s remarkable geological history.

Visitors embark on a guided tour of this sacred site, marveling at its unique features:

• The volcanic crater, filled with a serene lake and lush vegetation, offers a peaceful respite from the island’s dramatic terrain.

• Guided walks around the crater’s rim provide stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape.

• Explorers learn about the cultural and religious significance of Rano Kau to the ancient Rapa Nui people, who revered it as a sacred place.

• The opportunity to take in the island’s natural wonders and uncover its rich history makes a visit to Rano Kau an unforgettable experience.

Discovering Orongo

After exploring the serene Rano Kau volcano, visitors venture to the captivating site of Orongo.

This ancient ceremonial village was once the seat of the Birdman cult, a sacred tradition that determined the island’s leader. Guides lead tours through the stone dwellings, pointing out the intricate petroglyphs that adorn the structures.

Visitors learn about the complex mythology and rituals associated with the Birdman competition, where contestants raced to collect the first egg of the season from a treacherous cliff.

Standing atop the dramatic cliffs, travelers marvel at the breathtaking ocean vistas that framed this enigmatic site.

Orongo offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Rapa Nui, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the island’s captivating history.

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Visiting Ahu Vinapu

Departing Orongo, the tour makes its way to the fascinating site of Ahu Vinapu. This architectural marvel offers a glimpse into the intricate stone masonry of the Rapa Nui people.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the precisely fitted stone blocks, a testament to the engineering prowess of the ancient inhabitants
• Explore the site’s iconic petroglyphs, which depict symbolic designs and motifs
• Enjoy a guided tour that brings the history and significance of Ahu Vinapu to life
• Capture breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape

With its captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders, Ahu Vinapu provides a truly enriching experience for those delving into the mysteries of Easter Island.

Highlights of the Tour

A highlight of the tour is exploring Rano Kau, a sacred volcano that holds deep cultural and religious significance for the ancient Rapa Nui inhabitants.

Visitors will learn about the fascinating history and mythology of Rapa Nui at the Orongo site. They’ll also be able to view famous petroglyphs and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.

Another highlight is the opportunity to discover the cultural richness of this unique island through the knowledgeable guidance of the tour’s experts.

The tour offers a chance to take in the captivating world of Rapa Nui and gain a deeper understanding of its ancient traditions and beliefs.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets to the sites, and complimentary food and beverages.

Pricing starts at $169 per person, offering excellent value for the experience.

This tour provides:

• Guided exploration of the sacred Rano Kau volcano and the historic Orongo site
• Opportunities to learn about the cultural and religious significance of these iconic Rapa Nui landmarks
• Stunning ocean views and photo stops, including the famous petroglyphs
• Flexible cancellation policy, allowing guests to receive a full refund up to 24 hours in advance

With its comprehensive inclusions and reasonable pricing, the "Orongo: the Mythical City of Kings" tour is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Easter Island.

Customer Reviews

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s clear that the "Orongo: the Mythical City of Kings" tour has captivated visitors to Easter Island.

With an impressive 5/5 overall rating based on 2 reviews, the tour seems to have consistently delivered exceptional experiences.

Reviewers have highlighted the knowledgeable guides, customizable tour options, and thoughtful details like special gifts.

The tour’s focus on exploring the cultural and religious significance of Rano Kau and uncovering the history and mythology of Rapa Nui at Orongo have resonated with travelers, leaving them with lasting impressions of this mythical destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Orongo?

The best time to visit Orongo is during the dry season from April to October when the weather is mild and sunny. This ensures optimal conditions for exploring the site and taking in the breathtaking views.

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities on Easter Island?

Yes, the Orongo tour can be combined with other activities on Easter Island. The tour operator offers customizable options, allowing visitors to tailor their experience and explore more of the island’s highlights during their visit.

Are There Any Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

This tour has no restrictive requirements. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they don’t need to pay until they reserve their spot. The tour is offered in multiple languages.

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour allows for customization to fit your interests. The tour provider offers flexible options, so you can tailor the experience to your preferences and make the most of your time on Easter Island.

How Much Walking Is Involved in This Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with approximately 30 minutes at Rano Kau, 50 minutes at Orongo, and 40 minutes at Ahu Vinapu. The tour provides transportation between sites, allowing for a comfortable and guided exploration of the key highlights.

The Sum Up

The "Orongo: The Mythical City of Kings" tour offers an immersive exploration of Easter Island’s extraordinary cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can discover the ancient ceremonial site of Orongo, marvel at the stunning Rano Kau volcano, and explore the captivating history of the Birdman cult. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking vistas, this flexible tour provides an unforgettable experience that highlights the unique traditions and geological marvels of the Rapa Nui people.

You can check if your dates are available here: