Volcanic Refuges: Excursion to Underground Civilization

Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is a remote and enigmatic destination that captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage and awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes. One of the island’s most intriguing experiences is the "Volcanic Refuges: Excursion to Underground Civilization" tour, which promises to unveil the secrets of the island’s ancient inhabitants. This immersive 3-hour journey takes adventurous travelers deep into the island’s largest cave, where they’ll encounter remarkable petroglyphs and gain insights into the daily lives of Rapa Nui‘s early settlers. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, participants can expect to uncover the fascinating interplay between the island’s volcanic formations and the resilience of its people.

Key Points

• Explore the largest cave on Rapa Nui, Ana Te Pahu, and discover the island’s rich cultural heritage through its rock art and petroglyphs.
• Visit Ahu Akivi, an archaeological site showcasing the unique configuration of seven moai facing the ocean, and learn about Rapa Nui’s ancestral traditions.
• Enjoy scenic views of Rapa Nui’s volcanic landscape and natural formations during stops at Puna Pau, a site known for its geological wonders and ancient rock art.
• Benefit from knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth historical context and insights into the cultural significance of the underground wonders.
• Experience an immersive and comprehensive tour that includes hotel pickup/drop-off, park entrance fees, and transportation, with flexible booking options and up to 10% savings available.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Volcanic Refuges: Excursion to Underground Civilization" tour offers an immersive exploration of Rapa Nui’s underground wonders.

Priced between $170 and $153 per person, with up to 10% in savings, this 3-hour tour is available in English, Spanish, and French.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking options, travelers can easily plan their adventure.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, park entrance fees, and all necessary transportation, making it a convenient and inclusive experience.

Itinerary and Transportation

Where does the tour begin? The tour begins with pickup from Hanga Roa.

From there, it’s a series of car rides to the key locations. First, it’s a 20-minute drive to Ahu Akivi, where visitors have an hour for a photo stop, guided tour, and walking.

Next, it’s a 7-minute drive to Ana Te Pahu, the largest cave on Rapa Nui, for an 80-minute guided tour and sightseeing.

Finally, it’s a 7-minute drive to Puna Pau for a 30-minute break, photo stop, guided tour, and sightseeing.

After these three stops, the tour returns to Hanga Roa.

Experience Highlights

Explore the largest cave on Rapa Nui as part of this excursion, learning about the ancestral life and rock art of the island’s ancient inhabitants.

View captivating petroglyphs and engravings that offer a glimpse into the lives of Rapa Nui’s early settlers. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views and natural landscapes that showcase the island’s volcanic origins.

This tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage and resilience of the Rapa Nui people.

With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll uncover the secrets of this underground civilization and leave with a newfound appreciation for the island’s rich history.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour typically includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all food and beverages, as well as entry fees to the parks and sites visited.

However, tips for the guide aren’t included in the price.

It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for individuals with claustrophobia, as it involves exploring the largest cave on Rapa Nui.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable or sports shoes to fully enjoy the walking and sightseeing activities throughout the excursion.

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Preparation and Customer Feedback

Typically, travelers are advised to bring comfortable or sports shoes to fully enjoy the walking and sightseeing activities throughout the excursion.

This tour has received an impressive overall rating of 5/5 based on 1 review, suggesting a positive experience for those who’ve participated.

Travelers can expect to explore the largest cave on Rapa Nui, learn about the ancestral life and rock art of the island’s inhabitants, and enjoy beautiful views and natural landscapes.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with claustrophobia, as it involves exploring underground spaces.

Exploring Ahu Akivi

The first stop on the excursion is Ahu Akivi, a captivating archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Rapa Nui’s past.

Visitors spend an hour exploring this unique location, taking photos and embarking on a guided tour. The site features seven moai, or iconic stone statues, facing the ocean, a rare configuration that sets it apart from other ahu (ceremonial platforms) on the island.

Travelers learn about the cultural significance of these impressive structures and the intricate rock art adorning the surrounding area.

The experience provides travelers with a deeper understanding of Rapa Nui’s ancestral traditions and the ingenuity of its early inhabitants.

Discovering Ana Te Pahu

After the captivating exploration of Ahu Akivi, the excursion takes visitors on a journey to uncover the hidden wonder of Ana Te Pahu.

This vast cave, the largest on Rapa Nui, offers a glimpse into the ancestral life of the island’s inhabitants. Guided tours lead explorers through the cave’s winding passages, where they can marvel at the intricate rock art and petroglyphs that adorn the walls.

The cave’s natural beauty, with its stunning geological formations, provides a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

Visitors can enjoy the history and culture of this underground refuge, gaining a deeper understanding of Rapa Nui’s rich heritage.

Visiting Puna Pau

Following the captivating exploration of Ana Te Pahu, the excursion now leads visitors to the stunning Puna Pau. This 30-minute stop offers a chance to take a break, capture breathtaking photos, and enjoy a guided tour of the site. Puna Pau is known for its unique geological formations and ancient rock art, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Rapa Nui. As visitors stroll through the area, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the natural landscapes and learn more about the island’s ancestral history.

Puna Pau Highlights
Photo Stop	Guided Tour
Break Time	Sightseeing
Walk	Scenic Views

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour information provided does not specify a maximum group size. However, it typically accommodates small groups to ensure a personalized experience and easy transportation to the various sites during the 3-hour excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour includes food and beverages, so you don’t need to bring your own. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator if you have any special dietary requirements or preferences.

Is There Any Medical Assistance Available During the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t mention any medical assistance being provided during the excursion. However, travelers should consult with their tour guide about any medical concerns and ensure they’re prepared for the physical activity involved.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

The tour operator does not allow customization of the standard itinerary. However, travelers can discuss additional site visits with the tour guide upon arrival. This is subject to availability and may incur extra charges.

Are Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator offers a 10% discount for seniors and students. To take advantage of this discount, customers should simply indicate their eligibility when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The "Volcanic Refuges: Excursion to Underground Civilization" tour provides an immersive and educational journey through Rapa Nui’s remarkable underground landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient petroglyphs, learn about ancestral life, and witness stunning volcanic formations and archaeological sites. With knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of this fascinating island.

You can check if your dates are available here: