Discover Rapa Nui: Unravel the Secrets of Easter Island

Today marks the start of your adventure on Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui – a small triangle in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Mataveri Airport is located just a short distance from the island’s only town: Hanga Roa. You have now arrived on one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world – there is no other landmass within a 2,000 km radius.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a small welcome gift before being transferred to your hotel. During the drive, you’ll get a first impression of the island’s unique character. The rest of the day is at your leisure – perhaps take a relaxed walk to begin exploring the island.

If you plan to explore the island by rental car, we recommend bringing an international driver’s license. Please also note that there is only one ATM on the island, so it’s advisable to bring enough cash in Chilean Pesos from the mainland.

Please note: The times and order of excursions on Easter Island may vary and will be communicated to guests on site.

Today you’ll discover the fascinating highlights of Easter Island on a full-day excursion.

Our first stop is Ahu Vaihu, an unrestored ceremonial site with toppled Moai statues, picturesquely located at the bay of Hanga Te’e. We then continue to Akahanga – another unrestored Ahu. According to legend, the tomb of the island’s first king, the legendary Hotu Matua, is located here.

A special highlight follows with a visit to Rano Raraku, an extinct volcano with a crater lake. This impressive quarry is where nearly all of the island’s Moais were once carved. Here, you’ll see 397 statues in various stages of completion – a unique site that offers deep insight into the culture of Rapa Nui.

Just a few kilometers away lies Ahu Tongariki, the largest restored Ahu on the island. With its 15 strikingly re-erected Moai facing the Pacific Ocean, it offers one of the most iconic photo opportunities on Easter Island. On the east coast, you’ll then visit "Te Pito o te Henua," the legendary "navel of the world," along with Ahu Te Pito Kura, where the largest Moai ever transported once stood.

The final stop of this eventful day is the white sandy beach of Anakena. Weather permitting, you’ll have the chance to take a swim. We’ll also visit the restored ceremonial platforms of Ahu Nau Nau and Ature Huke. After a day full of unforgettable impressions, we’ll return you to your hotel.

In the morning, our excursion takes you to the impressive volcano Rano Kau with its spectacular crater lake. From two viewpoints, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the island and into the crater – a truly impressive natural spectacle. Next, you will visit the ceremonial village of Orongo. This was once the site of the Birdman cult rituals, including a thrilling competition where daring men tried to retrieve the first egg of the sooty tern. You will explore the unique petroglyphs and the typical stone houses of Orongo – all while enjoying views of the nearby islets Motu Nui, Motu Iti, and Motu Kao Kao.

The tour continues to the unrestored Ahu Vinapu, whose precise stonework is reminiscent of Pre-Inca architecture. Afterwards, we stop at the Ana Kai Tangata cave. Due to recent safety regulations, entry is no longer permitted, but you can view the cave entrance and its well-preserved wall paintings from the coast.

In the afternoon, the tour heads inland to Ahu Akivi, a restored ceremonial site featuring seven upright Moai statues that – according to legend – represent the seven envoys of King Hotu Matua.

Next, we visit the unrestored Ahu of Hanga Poukura. The penultimate stop is the Puna Pau crater, where the red volcanic stone for the Moai’s distinctive topknots, called Pukaos, was quarried.

To conclude, we visit the ceremonial site of Tahai near Hanga Roa. Here, you will see three restored Ahus as well as the island’s only Moai whose eyes have been reconstructed. Additionally, Tahai features restored remains of boat houses (Hare Paenga), chicken houses (Hare Moa), and an impressive boat ramp.

Today is yours to spend entirely as you wish – take the time to soak in the unique atmosphere of Easter Island at your own pace.

On site, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from a variety of optional excursions, such as:

– Scuba diving or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters

– Boat tour along the island’s impressive coastline

– Horseback riding through volcanic landscapes

– Visit to mystical caves with ancient rock carvings

– Sunrise at Ahu Tongariki – a truly unforgettable experience

– Romantic sunset at Tahai with views of the Moai

– Traditional dance show in the evening

Feel free to speak with your local guide or the hotel staff – they will be happy to assist you in arranging the activity of your choice.

Today, your flight departs from the most remote island in the world back to the bustling metropolis of Santiago de Chile. You will be transferred to the airport, where it’s time to say goodbye to this remarkable island.