Mystery of the Poike:Walk through the most unknown Rapa Nui

Exploring Rapa Nui’s Hidden Treasures: The Mystery of Poike Tour

Our review of the “Mystery of the Poike” tour offers a glimpse into one of Easter Island’s lesser-known adventures. While many visitors focus on the iconic moai statues and main archaeological sites, this experience shines a light on the island’s most remote and untouched spots. It’s a chance to walk through rugged terrain, uncover archaeological secrets, and enjoy spectacular, unspoiled views.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it takes you off the beaten path, away from crowds. Second, the guided visits to untouched archaeological sites provide a genuine sense of discovery. Third, the walk through geological formations and caves offers a raw, natural perspective of Rapa Nui’s wild side. However, a potential consideration is that the tour’s terrain might be challenging for those with mobility issues, as it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people over 95.

This adventure suits travelers who love authentic, less commercialized experiences, are comfortable with walking, and want to see a side of Rapa Nui few do. If you’re eager for a blend of cultural storytelling and natural beauty, this tour could become a highlight of your trip.

Contents show

Key Points

Hidden & Remote: Discover the most secluded parts of Rapa Nui away from typical tourist spots.
Expert Guides: Learn about the island’s history and legends from certified, knowledgeable guides.
Authentic Archaeology: Visit untouched sites with no current restoration, offering a raw glimpse into the past.
Spectacular Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the island’s rugged landscape.
Wild Nature: Experience the untamed natural environment of Poike’s geological formations and caves.
Private Group: Enjoy a personalized experience with a private guide, ensuring deeper engagement.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Mystery of the Poike Tour

This 5-hour tour, organized by Kapua Tours & Experience, promises an intimate, engaging exploration into Rapa Nui’s lesser-known areas. From the moment of pickup, you’ll be whisked away to the island’s most mysterious sectors, led by a knowledgeable guide fluent in Spanish, English, and French. The small, private group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, allowing for questions, storytelling, and a customized experience.

Looking for more options in Easter Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary in Focus

Stop 1: Pickup at Easter Island
The adventure begins with pickup at your hotel or designated location. This convenience means you start your exploration without the hassle of arranging transport — a real plus for travelers who value comfort and efficiency.

Stop 2: Poike (around 1 hour)
Poike is the star of this tour — an area often overlooked by mainstream visitors. Here, you’ll stop for photos, guided visits, and sightseeing. The terrain is rugged, and the views are sweeping, offering a sense of the island’s untouched beauty. Your guide will share insights into the geological formations and the history embedded within this remote landscape.

Stop 3: Vai a Heva Face (30 minutes)
Next, a stop at Vai a Heva Face provides another opportunity for photos and exploration. This site, with its distinctive features, deepens your understanding of Rapa Nui’s natural and cultural history.

Stop 4: Location 554GWP3W+V23 (30 minutes)
While less descriptively named, this stop offers yet another chance to explore geological or archaeological features. It’s a reminder of how much of Rapa Nui remains unexplored and wild, waiting to tell its stories.

Stop 5: Ana O Keke (30 minutes)
This stop features a break time at Ana O Keke, allowing for rest, photos, and perhaps a snack. It’s a perfect moment to absorb the scenery and listen to your guide’s stories about local legends tied to the landscape.

Return to Easter Island
After a full morning of exploration, you’ll be taken back to your starting point, feeling enriched by the natural and cultural discoveries.

Why This Tour Offers Value

At $219 per person, the price reflects a private, guided experience that goes beyond mainstream tours. You’re not just ticking off a few sites; you’re actively exploring the island’s most mysterious and untouched areas. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off enhances convenience, especially considering Rapa Nui’s limited infrastructure.

By visiting sites with no current intervention, you gain access to places that many travelers might never see — unaltered, authentic, and full of secrets. The guided commentary ensures you understand the significance of each site, from ancient cave paintings to geological formations, adding educational depth to your adventure.

The Landscape and Walking Experience

The tour’s emphasis on walking through rugged terrains means you’ll experience Rapa Nui in its raw form. The landscape varies from volcanic craters to caves, all of which are visually stunning. Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic vistas will find this especially rewarding.

The views of the island from high points and cliffs are spectacular — a great opportunity for photography. However, be prepared for uneven terrain, and wear sturdy shoes. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility restrictions, but for most able-bodied travelers, the physical aspect adds to the sense of adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cultural Insights and Stories

Your guide, fluent in multiple languages, will share legends and stories that animate each site. From the significance of the caves to the natural formations, these narratives deepen your appreciation of Rapa Nui’s culture. Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of the guides, noting their knowledge and storytelling skills, which elevate this tour from simple sightseeing to a meaningful cultural encounter.

There's plenty more to explore in Easter Island

Flexibility and Booking

The tour includes an option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours before departure, making it a low-risk choice if your plans change. The tour duration of five hours strikes a good balance, allowing enough time for exploration without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic and less commercialized look at Rapa Nui. It’s perfect if you love natural landscapes, archaeology, and storytelling that goes beyond the usual tourist spots. The private group setting means you’ll enjoy a personalized, engaging experience, making it suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting an intimate adventure.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer flat, paved paths, this might not be the best fit. It’s also not suitable for children over 95 years or wheelchair users, given the rugged terrain and natural environment.

For those eager to explore the island’s secrets and unspoiled landscapes, this tour offers a rare chance to connect authentically with Rapa Nui’s wild side. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery into one compelling package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with starting times available based on availability.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak Spanish, English, and French, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

Is this a private group?
Yes, it’s a private tour, enhancing personalization and flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s not suitable for people over 95 years or wheelchair users due to the terrain. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with walking.

What should I wear?
Sturdy hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as terrain can be rugged.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any food included?
No, but there are breaks where you might bring snacks or purchase local options.

What makes this tour unique?
It explores the most hidden and untouched parts of Rapa Nui, with expert guides sharing stories and secrets that you won’t find in typical tours.

Would I enjoy this if I’ve already seen the moai?
Absolutely. It offers a different perspective, focusing on the island’s wild, natural, and archaeological mysteries beyond the famous statues.

To sum it up, the “Mystery of the Poike” tour offers a rare, authentic look at Rapa Nui’s more secluded, natural, and mysterious side. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate cultural storytelling combined with outdoor exploration. While not suited for everyone, especially those with mobility restrictions, its value lies in the opportunity to connect with the island’s lesser-seen landscapes and secrets, making it a memorable addition to any Easter Island itinerary.