Excursion Hanga roa village & moais tour at Easter Island

Explore the ancient legacy and culture of Easter Island during this scenic and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Easter Island, Ahu Akivi, Moais

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive north to Ahu Akivi, one of the main sites of this island. 'Ahu' is the native word for a ceremonial platform, or altar, on which the famous moai stand. In contrast to the monumental statuary at other sites on the island, the moais at Ahu Akivi face the ocean. Built in 1460 B.C., probably at a time when the statue cult was beginning to unravel, it is one of the 'youngest' ahu of the island, and was completely restored in 1960 by archaeologist William Mulloy. Following your visit, re-board your coach and head to Ahu Tahai.

Ahu Tahai, Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure

Located just outside Hanga Roa Town and adjacent to the cemetery, Ahu Tahai is a complex consisting of three different ahu sites; Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure and Ahu Tahai. Ahu Ko Te Riku features a beautiful, single statue placed on a platform dating from 690 B.C. The statue is in good condition, and has white eyeballs with dark pupils. Ahu Vai Ure is home to five different statues, whereas Ahu Tahai, named after the entire complex, has a single large moai. Restored in the late-1960s and dating from the 6th century, it is believed that this complex is one of the oldest ancient statue sites on Rapa Nui.

Hanga Roa Village, Artisan Market, Handicrafts, Jewellery, Local Church, Statues

Leaving Ahu Tahai, re-board the coach for a brief sightseeing drive en route to Hanga Roa Village. Upon arrival, a shopping stop is made at the famous Artisan Market. Some free time is made available to browse the market for locally-made handicrafts, including stone moai replicas and traditional, hand-made jewellery, whilst interacting with local merchants. From here, take a guided stroll to the nearby local church, which is decorated with spectacular, carved-wood statues; a syncretic vision of Christianity and indigenous spirituality. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Easter Island, Ahu Akivi, Moais, Ahu Tahai, Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure, Hanga Roa Village, Artisan Market, Handicrafts, Jewellery, Local Church, Statues

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 273 yards (about 250 metres), at times over uneven and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and nine steps to access the church. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a light sweater or jacket, and local currency for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary.