Two Days of Full Day Tour of Rapa Nui + Sunrise in Tongariki

Exploring the enigmatic Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is a journey that captivates the imagination. This two-day full-day tour promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the island’s iconic moai statues, ancient caves, and significant cultural landmarks. Led by knowledgeable storytellers, the tour culminates in a breathtaking sunrise at the famous Tongariki site, offering a profound connection to the unique heritage of the Rapa Nui people. With moderate physical activity involved, the tour provides an opportunity to uncover the island’s rich history and natural wonders, including lava tunnels and the Rano Raraku quarry. For those seeking a deeper understanding of this remote and enigmatic destination, this tour may hold the key to unlocking its mysteries.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Orongo.

Key Points

• A 2.5-day exploration of Easter Island that includes a memorable sunrise experience at the iconic Tongariki moai site.
• The tour covers approximately 9.6 miles over two days, with a moderate level of physical fitness required.
• Maximum group size of 19 travelers for an intimate and personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides providing engaging storytelling.
• National park entrance fees are included, with tickets required to be purchased separately prior to the tour.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children.

Tour Overview and Details

The Rapa Nui Tour is a comprehensive 2.5-day exploration of Easter Island, Chile, offering travelers a sunrise experience at the famous Tongariki moai site.

This small-group tour, limited to 19 people, delves into the island’s captivating history and culture.

Travelers will meet at Ara Roa Rakei in Hanga Roa at 9:30 AM, with optional hotel pickup available, and the tour returns to the starting point.

Included in the tour are entrance fees to the national park, as well as raincoats in case of inclement weather.

While meals aren’t provided, there are opportunities to purchase food at select locations.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes the entrance ticket to the national park, costing $20,000 CLP for Chilean nationals and $72,000 CLP for foreign nationals, as well as raincoats in case of rain.

However, food isn’t provided and must be purchased at Anakena and Rano Raraku, where only cash is accepted. Travelers should plan to bring their own snacks, as the availability of food options can be unpredictable.

The national park ticket must be purchased separately, either at the Mau Henua offices or online, prior to the start of the tour.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

According to the tour details, the Rapa Nui Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible.

Travelers will need a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves walking distances of up to 6 miles on the first day and 3.6 miles on the second day. Plus, infants must sit on laps during the tour.

While the tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility, it can accommodate families with young children. Participants should be prepared for a moderately active itinerary, which includes exploring the ancient moai sites, caves, and other cultural landmarks of Easter Island.

With the proper preparation and mindset, the Rapa Nui Tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for those seeking to uncover the mysteries of this unique destination.

Tour Experience and Highlights

Guides on the Rapa Nui Tour receive praise for their knowledge and engaging presentation of the island’s cultural history and sites.

The tour features visits to the iconic moai statues, intriguing cave systems, and other notable landmarks that offer a comprehensive exploration of Rapa Nui’s rich heritage. Participants can look forward to a memorable sunrise experience at the Tongariki site, witnessing the dramatic silhouettes of the moai against the first light of day.

The tour highlights include:

• Exploring the lava tunnels and caves, with headlamps recommended for a more immersive experience.

• Visiting the Rano Raraku quarry, the source of the iconic moai statues.

• Discovering the cultural history and significance of the Rapa Nui people through guided storytelling and site exploration.

Feedback and Recommendations

Participants provide overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Rapa Nui Tour, praising the guides’ exceptional knowledge and their ability to lead the group in avoiding crowded areas.

However, some concerns arise around the coordination and timing of pickups from accommodations. Visitors are also recommended to bring snacks, as the availability of food can be unpredictable at certain sites along the tour.

Despite these minor issues, the tour is highly recommended for its comprehensive experience of Easter Island. Travelers are able to witness the iconic moai statues, explore lava tunnels, and witness the breathtaking sunrise at Tongariki – all while learning about the rich cultural history of Rapa Nui from knowledgeable local guides.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour meeting point is at Ara Roa Rakei in Hanga Roa, on Easter Island’s main town, where participants gather at 9:30 AM to commence the 2.5-day adventure.

Pickup from accommodations is available, with passengers advised to wait at their hotel entrance or a designated reference point for the tour vehicle.

The tour vehicle will arrive to collect participants, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s activities.

Coordinating the pickup can be tricky, so it’s recommended to communicate with the tour operator in advance to confirm the exact meeting point and timing.

Arriving at the designated meeting point on time is crucial, as the tour departs promptly at 9:30 AM to make the most of the day’s itinerary.

Duration and Start/End Times

This 2.5-day tour commences at 9:30 AM, with the day’s activities concluding back at the original meeting point.

Travelers will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunrise at Tongariki, one of the iconic sites on Easter Island.

The tour covers a total distance of around 9.6 miles across the two days, with Day 1 featuring a 6-mile hike and Day 2 a 3.6-mile exploration.

While the overall physical fitness level required is moderate, this comprehensive experience allows visitors to enjoy the rich cultural history and natural wonders of Rapa Nui over the course of a long weekend.

The tour’s duration ensures ample time to fully appreciate the island’s renowned moai statues and other fascinating sites.

Group Size and National Park Ticket

Maximum group size for the Rapa Nui Tour is 19 travelers, allowing for an intimate experience amidst the island’s iconic sites. Visitors must purchase national park tickets, which cost 20,000 CLP for Chilean nationals and 72,000 CLP for foreign nationals, before the tour’s start. These tickets can be obtained at the Mau Henua offices or online. The tour’s inclusions cover the park entrance fee, ensuring a hassle-free experience for participants.

Tickets must be purchased prior to the tour to avoid delays.

The national park fee supports the conservation and maintenance of the island’s remarkable heritage.

With a small group size, travelers can enjoy personalized attention from the knowledgeable local guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement for children. Infants are permitted but must sit on a lap. Strollers are allowed, making the tour accessible for families with young children.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Personal Items?

The tour does not have any strict restrictions on luggage or personal items. Travelers are advised to pack light and bring only essential items, as there may be some walking involved. Large suitcases or bulky items are not recommended.

Can I Participate if I Have a Physical Disability?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Travelers with moderate physical fitness can participate. However, infants must sit on laps due to the walking required. Those with physical disabilities should consult the tour provider for accommodation options.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention vegetarian or vegan meal options, but there are food options available for purchase at Anakena and Rano Raraku that may accommodate dietary needs. Travelers should check with the tour operator for more details.

Will I Have Time to Explore Hanga Roa Town on My Own?

According to the tour details, there is limited free time in Hanga Roa town. The 2.5-day itinerary focuses on visiting key sites, with the majority of time spent at the moai and cultural attractions. Travelers may have some flexibility to explore Hanga Roa independently, but options are relatively restricted.

Recap

This comprehensive two-day tour of Rapa Nui offers an immersive exploration of the island’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and iconic moai statues.

Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, you’ll witness the breathtaking sunrise at Tongariki, venture into ancient caves, and discover the island’s natural wonders.

The experience will leave you with a deep connection to the unique Rapa Nui people and their captivating history.