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It is one of the most isolated islands in the world but 1200 years ago a double-hulled
canoe filled with seafarers from a distant culture landed upon its shores,
Hotu Matua was their King. Over the centuries that followed a remarkable society developed in isolation on the island. For reasons still unknown they began carving giant statues out of volcanic rock. These monuments, known, as "moai" are some of the most incredible ancient relics ever discovered. The people of Easter Island called themselves the Rapa Nui. Where did they come from and why did they disappear? Science has learned much about the enigma of Easter Island and has put to rest some of the more bizarre theories, but questions and controversies remain. Easter Island ruins are still very accessible. So far there are no fences or signs telling us to stay out or watch where you walk. Perhaps this is because it seems everywhere you walk is an archaeological site! One big open air museum! |
Easter Island |
Day 1 Easter Island The islanders welcome you at Mataveri airport with a flower necklace; and then we will transfer you to your hotel to freshen up. By night we invite you to enjoy a folklore dinner show, with songs and popular dances dedicated to their gods, such as the War Spirits, rain and love among others. The pascuences are very good dancers, passionate for music and dances. Day 2 Easter Island / Anakena You will start your full day excursion with a visit to Vaihu, an ancient site in ruins. Then, continue towards Ahu Akahanga, a large ahu (platforms) with four big fallen statues and where, according to legends, rests the tomb of the first king of the island. From there we will visit the Rano Raraku quarry, classic symbol of the island and original factory of the moais. The gigantic statues cover the inner and outer slopes of the volcano; they can be admired in the different stages of production, from carving in the rock to upright position, and lying face down on their intended road to their platforms. We shall then drive to Ahu Tongariki, formerly the biggest platform on the island destroyed by a tidal wave in 1960, now reconstructed. Afterwards, we will drive along the north coast, passing by La Perouse Bay to visit Ahu Te Pito Kura (the world's navel). From there continue to the beautiful archaeological zone of Anakena. Return to the hotel through the Vaitea Farm. Picnic lunch included. Day 3 Easter Island / Akivi & Orongo village After breakfast, you will drive to the famous Ahu Akivi, where seven statues overlook the sea from inland, close together in their original standing position. Then, you will visit Puna Pau, the volcanic rock quarry and continue to the interesting local museum, founded by Father Sebastian Englert. Continue to the archaeological area of Ahu Tahai. Return to your hotel. Our half-day afternoon excursion includes a visit to Ahu Vinapu with its incredible stone walls similar to those built by the ancient Incas; the architecture of these walls is sometimes used as an argument to support the theory that the early islanders came from South America. Afterwards, drive to the southernmost volcano of the island, Rano Kau. From there you will have an opportunity to see most of the island, with its reed-covered lake. On the west side of the slopes you have an impressive view of the islets Motu Nui, Motu Iti and Motu Kao-Kao. The main feature on Rano Kau is its rebuilt ancient ceremonial village of Orongo. In primitive times it was used for the traditional egg-ceremony, taking place year after year to choose the religious head of the island. The site is full of petroglyphs representing Tangata Manu (birdman) and the god Make-Make. At the end of the tour, return to your hotel. Day 4 Easter Island / Ovahe beach and caves The island is a great opportunity for diving or just snorkelling on any of its beaches. Ovahe beach is a beach of pink sands, highly recommended by the lovers of diving. Due to its location in the island, before noon is the ideal time to swim at this beautiful beach. An exiting excursion is the 'Cave of the two windows'. Its a small hole in the ground - a magic maze though a touch claustrophobic, where the sunshine appears after a few metres through the two natural 'windows' facing the ocean Day 5 Easter Island / Santiago Appropriately timed transfer to Mataveri Airport for your return flight to Santiago and onward international flight. |
Guide price £ per person , based on two people sharing a double or twin room. This tour can be done as an extension to any of our other tours to Chile, or you can add a day at the beginning and end and make it a 7 day holiday to Easter Island & Santiago. Please contact us for further information. |




