Outings and excursions · Isla de Pascua
Rapa Nui: how to visit the national park and its moai
Photos: TravelingOtter / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki, Orongo and Anakena: what to know before exploring the island, from the entrance ticket to the mandatory guide.
Much of Easter Island is Rapa Nui National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Its moai and ceremonial sites are unique in the world, and visiting them comes with its own rules.
Before you go
- Entrance: you need a ticket to visit the park, valid for several days from your first entry. Price and conditions: check the park's official website.
- Mandatory guide: most archaeological sites can only be visited with an accredited local guide. Tahai and Anakena beach (without its ahu) are the exception.
Must-sees
- Rano Raraku: the volcanic quarry where the moai were carved; many are still there, half emerged from the rock.
- Ahu Tongariki: the island's largest ceremonial platform, with 15 moai in a row; sunrise there is a classic.
- Orongo: the ceremonial village on the rim of the Rano Kau crater, linked to the Birdman cult.
- Anakena: a white-sand beach with palm trees, perfect to end the day.
- Tahai: in Hanga Roa, the favourite spot for sunset.
Tapati
Between late January and February, the Tapati Rapa Nui festival celebrates the island's culture with traditional competitions, music and dance. It is the busiest time of year: book ahead.
Tips
- Do not touch the moai or climb onto the ahu: they are sacred and protected.
- Check the island's entry requirements before you travel.
