Ancient Cultures of Easter Island
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Port
Easter Island, Chile
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$299.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Your excursion begins with a visit to the ceremonial site of Tahai, located on the west coast of the island. This is where you will find the altars and monolithic Moai statues that have become the icons of Rapa Nui culture.
Next, head to Rano Kau, the volcano closest to the village of Hanga Roa. From the mirador (viewpoint), you'll have a great view of a crater and its lake, whose microclimate promotes the growth of dense, varied vegetation.
A short drive brings you to one of the most outstanding and enigmatic places on the island -- the ceremonial village of Orongo. This was once a small huddle of 52 houses built from flagstone, where the celebration of the birdman culture (tangata manu) and a related competition took place.
Notes:
Easter Island has a hot and humid climate. Bring bottled water from the ship; there is nowhere to purchase water on tour. Minimum age is 12 years. Walking is over uneven terrain at the volcano. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Tourism infrastructure is very limited on Easter Island. Transportation will be by way of several different types of vehicle, including minibuses and vans. A guide waits for you at each point of interest and provides narration and explanation with a loudspeaker rather than riding with you in the vehicle. The ship is at anchor on Easter Island, and the Immigration clearance process can take more than an hour. Having your immigration card filled in prior to arrival will expedite the process. Very few vendors on Easter Island accept credit cards; bring US dollars or Chilean pesos.