Deep into Easter Island's Culture
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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
$419.95
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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 included
Easter Island is best known for its mysterious statues that have puzzled archaeologists and historians from all over the world. The "other half" of Easter Island's fascination is its friendly inhabitants of Polynesian origin, who are eager to show visitors some of their culture. The Rapa Nui people are most willing to tell you about their ancient traditions and, at the same time, allow you to participate in their ceremony of body painting.
From the port of Hanga Piko, you'll head to the Tahai area, located on the west coast of the island. The altars and monolithic Moai statues found here are the embodiment of Rapa Nui culture. Your guide will explain the site and allow time for photos.
Afterward, take a short walk to meet your Rapa Nui hosts. During your time with these gentle people, they will teach you about their tribal dances. You'll also learn about kaikai -- the traditional game that expounds Rapa Nui history with the help of a piece of thread that is used to form different shapes in the hands -- and the use of kie'a. The latter is a form of natural paint that was used in ancient times for body painting (takona). You're invited to participate and have your body painted if you wish, or you can simply observe how it is done.
Notes:
Minimum age is 12 years. Easter Island has a hot and humid climate. 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.