Rapa Nui: Private Tour The Legend of the BirdMan

Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is a captivating destination that has long captivated the world’s imagination. A private tour of this remote Pacific island offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the enigmatic Birdman competition at Orongo village. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, visitors can explore iconic sites like the breathtaking Rano Kau crater and the first restored ceremonial platform adorned with moai statues at Ahu Akivi. By uncovering the rich history and cultural significance of Rapa Nui, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you eager to unveil more of the island’s secrets.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Tours In Easter Island.

Key Points

• Explore the iconic landmarks and cultural heritage of Rapa Nui on a private tour, including the legendary Tangata Manu (Birdman) competition site at Orongo village.
• Discover the breathtaking Rano Kau crater and its serene freshwater lake, offering panoramic views of the island’s natural beauty.
• Visit the first restored Ahu Akivi, showcasing the seven moai statues that represent the island’s explorers.
• Explore the geological history of Rapa Nui through guided tours of its unique cave systems.
• Enjoy a stress-free experience with professional, multilingual guides, comfortable transportation, and flexibility in pickup and drop-off locations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of Rapa Nui‘s iconic landmarks and cultural heritage. Priced from £113.98 per person, the 6-hour tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserves your spot without upfront payment.

Highlights include the breathtaking Rano Kau crater, the legendary Orongo village, and the first restored Ahu at Ahi Akivi. Guided tours at multiple visitor centers are included, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

Transportation is provided, with pickup and drop-off at the airport, Hanga Piko, and your hotel. The tour employs professional guides who speak Spanish, English, and French, ensuring a customized experience for private groups.

Itinerary Highlights

The private tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Rapa Nui’s most iconic landmarks and cultural heritage.

Guests will marvel at the breathtaking views of the Rano Kau crater and wetland, a true natural wonder.

Next, they’ll discover the Orongo village, the site of the legendary Tangata Manu (Birdman) competition.

The tour also includes a visit to the first restored Ahu at Ahu Akivi, a fascinating historical site.

Finally, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the island’s stunning cave systems, offering a unique glimpse into Rapa Nui’s geological history.

1. Rano Kau: Breathtaking crater and wetland views
2. Orongo village: Discover the Tangata Manu (Birdman) competition
3. Ahu Akivi: First restored Ahu
4. Explore Rapa Nui’s stunning cave systems

Transportation and Pickup

For the convenience of travelers, the private tour includes pickup and drop-off services from three designated locations: Airport Mataveri, Hanga Piko, and the traveler’s hotel.

Guests will be transported in a comfortable Jeep or SUV for the short drives between the various stops on the itinerary.

At the end of the tour, travelers can choose to be dropped off at any of the three pickup locations, providing flexibility and ease of access.

This seamless transportation service ensures a stress-free experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the wonders of Rapa Nui without worrying about logistics.

Guide and Language Services

A professional guide is provided for this private tour of Rapa Nui. They’ll share their expertise and insights into the island’s fascinating history and cultural significance.

The guides are fluent in Spanish, English, and French, ensuring a customized experience for your group. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Multilingual expertise: The guides are knowledgeable in multiple languages, allowing them to cater to the needs of diverse travelers.

2. Personalized service: The tour is tailored to your group’s interests and preferences, providing a truly unique experience.

3. Cultural immersion: The guides will bring the island’s rich heritage to life, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of Rapa Nui.

4. Seamless navigation: With their local knowledge, the guides will ensure a smooth and efficient tour, maximizing your time on the island.

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Important Information

Passport, trekking clothing, and equipment are necessary items to bring on this Rapa Nui private tour.

The itinerary is subject to change, so travelers should remain flexible. Guests should ensure they’re waiting in the hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to avoid delays.

This private tour offers customized service, with professional guides providing commentary in Spanish, English, or French.

While the tour covers iconic sites like Rano Kau, Orongo village, and Ahu Akivi, the exact duration at each location may vary.

Ultimately, this immersive experience allows visitors to discover the legends and mysteries of Rapa Nui at their own pace.

Rano Kau: Breathtaking Crater View

The tour takes visitors to the captivating Rano Kau, an ancient volcanic crater that offers breathtaking vistas.

This natural wonder features:

1. A serene freshwater lake nestled within the crater, surrounded by lush vegetation.
2. Panoramic views of the island’s dramatic coastline and the vast Pacific Ocean.
3. Unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Tangata Manu (Birdman) plant.
4. The opportunity to learn about the cultural significance of Rano Kau to the Rapa Nui people and their creation myths.

Exploring this remarkable geological site provides a profound connection to the island’s rich history and natural beauty.

Orongo Village: Tangata Manu Competition

Nestled atop the island’s dramatic cliffs, Orongo Village was the site of the legendary Tangata Manu (Birdman) competition, a unique cultural tradition that captivates visitors to Rapa Nui.

Each year, representatives from the island’s different clans would compete to be the first to retrieve an egg from the nesting site of the sooty tern on the nearby islet of Motu Nui. The winner was crowned the Tangata Manu, or Birdman, and granted special privileges for the following year.

Exploring the stone dwellings and ceremonial sites of Orongo provides a glimpse into this captivating tradition that was central to the social and religious life of the Rapanui people.

Ahu Akivi: First Restored Ahu

Amid the enigmatic moai statues that dot Rapa Nui’s landscape, Ahu Akivi stands apart as the first restored ahu, or ceremonial platform, on the island.

This unique site features seven moai facing the ocean, a departure from the typical inward-facing orientation. Visitors can marvel at the impressive statues and learn about the site’s history, including:

1. Ahu Akivi’s moai were restored in the 1960s, providing a glimpse into the island’s past.
2. The seven moai are believed to represent the seven explorers who first arrived on Rapa Nui.
3. The site offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
4. Guided tours provide insight into the cultural significance and mysteries surrounding Ahu Akivi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Personal Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your personal interests. The private tour offers a personalized service, allowing you to tailor the itinerary and focus on the sights that interest you most.

Are Meals and Snacks Included During the Tour?

Meals and snacks aren’t included in the tour price. Travelers are responsible for their own food and refreshments during the 6-hour experience. The tour focuses on visiting key cultural and historical sites across Rapa Nui.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The maximum group size for this private tour is not specified. It’s a customized service for private groups, so the group size can be tailored to the client’s needs.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Visit Any of the Sites?

No special permits are required to visit the sites on this tour. The tour is a privately guided experience that takes visitors to iconic points of interest on Rapa Nui without any special access requirements.

Can I Take Photos at the Archaeological Sites?

Yes, visitors can take photos at the archaeological sites on this tour. However, they should be respectful and avoid disturbing the sites or disrupting any ongoing ceremonies or activities.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating history and mysticism of Rapa Nui on this private tour. Marvel at the breathtaking Rano Kau crater, explore the legendary Orongo village, and discover the enigmatic moai statues at Ahu Akivi. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll uncover the island’s rich cultural heritage, making for an unforgettable journey into the heart of this remarkable Polynesian destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: