Easter Island: Private Full Day History Of The Moai

Discover the captivating history behind Easter Island’s enigmatic Moai statues on a private full-day tour. Explore the island’s significant sites, including the "Moai factory" and the impressive Ahu Tongariki, while gaining insights into the Rapa Nui culture. This immersive adventure promises an unforgettable experience, with hotel pickup, guided visits, and the option to customize the tour in your preferred language. What secrets do these ancient monoliths hold, and how did they come to be?

This experience made our article of Easter Island’s 2 Top Full-Day Tours (With Prices).

Key Points

• This private full-day tour provides an in-depth exploration of the history and significance of the iconic Moai statues on Easter Island.
• The tour includes guided visits to key sites such as Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki, and Anakena Beach, where visitors can witness the craftsmanship and scale of the Moai.
• Guests gain insights into Rapa Nui culture and the effort required to carve and transport the Moai, as well as their connection to the island’s past.
• The tour is delivered in English, Spanish, and French, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, and free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior.
• Reviews mention organization and language barriers, but the tour provides a rundown of the history and significance of the Moai statues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour of Easter Island explores the history and significance of the iconic Moai statues. Priced from $219 per person, the 7-hour experience offers guided visits to key sites like Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki, and Anakena Beach.

Delivered in English, Spanish, and French, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, water, and admission fees. Though free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior, customer reviews suggest organization and language barriers could be improved.

Pickup and Initial Stops

The tour begins with hotel pickup from the RJQR+F6 location in Hanga Roa on Easter Island. Guests wait 10 minutes in the lobby before the scheduled departure time.

The guide provides a 20-minute introduction to the tour itinerary and highlights. The first stops are Ahu Akahanga and Ahu One Makihi, where visitors spend 30 minutes at each site.

At these locations, the guide shares insights into the Rapa Nui culture and the significance of the Moai statues. With the initial sights explored, the tour continues to the main attractions on Easter Island.

Rano Raraku

After visiting the initial stops, the tour proceeds to Rano Raraku, known as the "Moai factory."

Visitors spend 2 hours exploring this fascinating site, where they can walk among the unfinished Moai statues that dot the landscape. The significance of Rano Raraku lies in its role as the primary quarry for the Moai, providing insight into the island’s artistic and engineering feats.

Visitors can:

• Witness the sheer scale and craftsmanship of the Moai in various stages of completion.

• Gain an understanding of the immense effort required to carve and transport these iconic statues.

• Ponder the mysteries surrounding the Rapa Nui people’s motivations and beliefs that drove the creation of the Moai.

Ahu Tongariki

From the quarry of Rano Raraku, the tour continues to Ahu Tongariki, the largest group of Moai on the island. Fifteen awe-inspiring Moai stand in solemn formation, their backs to the rising sun. Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale and grandeur of these statues, which range from 13 to 23 feet tall. The site offers a powerful connection to the island’s past, as visitors can imagine the immense effort required to erect these monuments.

| Moai | Height (ft) | Weight (tons) | Material | Carving Technique |

| — | — | — | — | — |

| 1 | 23 | 86 | Volcanic Tuff | Hammer and Chisel |

| 2 | 19 | 65 | Volcanic Tuff | Hammer and Chisel |

| 3 | 16 | 48 | Volcanic Tuff | Hammer and Chisel |

| 4 | 13 | 33 | Volcanic Tuff | Hammer and Chisel |

| 5 | 18 | 57 | Volcanic Tuff | Hammer and Chisel |

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Ovahe Beach

Next, the tour takes visitors to Ovahe Beach, a tranquil rose-tinted sand beach that offers scenic coastal views.

The beach provides a peaceful respite from the monumental Moai statues, allowing guests to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Ovahe Beach is significant for several reasons:

• It showcases the island’s unique geological features, with the pink sand contrasting against the blue ocean.

• The beach offers a chance to relax and enjoy the island’s tranquil atmosphere.

• Visitors can take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding cliffs and coastline.

Ahu Te Pito Kura

The tour now heads to Ahu Te Pito Kura, home to one of the largest Moai on the island. This impressive site features a 10-meter-tall statue, dwarfing the other figures nearby. Visitors can marvel at the sheer size and craftsmanship of this monumental work. Archaeologists believe this Moai was likely one of the last to be erected on the island before the civilization’s decline.

| Interesting Fact | Detail |

| — | — |

| Ahu Te Pito Kura | One of the largest Moai on Easter Island |

| Moai Height | 10 meters tall |

| Moai Significance | Likely one of the last Moai erected before civilization decline |

| Visit Duration | 20 minutes |

Anakena Beach

After visiting the impressive Ahu Te Pito Kura, the tour heads to the stunning Anakena Beach.

This picturesque stretch of white sand and clear blue waters offers a perfect respite from the exploration of the island’s archaeological wonders.

Visitors can:

• Relax and soak up the sun on the beach

• Take a refreshing dip in the calm, inviting waters

• Explore the nearby caves and natural formations

Anakena Beach provides a serene and beautiful setting, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the unique charm of Easter Island’s diverse landscape.

Tour Experience and Inclusions

This full-day tour allows visitors to discover the mythical and enigmatic places on Easter Island. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, sharing insights about Rapa Nui culture and the significance of the iconic Moai statues.

At each location, guests can take photos and receive guided explanations, seeing the island’s history and natural beauty. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, individual water bottles, food, and entrance fees to the parks visited.

With flexibility in booking and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is an excellent choice for those interested in the history and culture of Easter Island.

Ask Away

Is There an Option for a Smaller Group Tour?

This tour is available as a private group experience. There’s no option for a smaller group tour. However, the private tour allows visitors to customize the itinerary and enjoy a more personalized experience.

Can We Modify the Itinerary to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour itinerary can likely be modified to include additional sites. The private tour format allows for customization based on the traveler’s interests. Reach out to the tour operator to discuss potential changes to the standard itinerary.

How Accessible Are the Sites for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour sites offer varying levels of accessibility for travelers with disabilities. Most major attractions like Rano Raraku and Ahu Tongariki have paved paths, but Anakena Beach and Ovahe Beach may present mobility challenges. Advance coordination with the tour company is recommended.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows for photography, but visitors should be mindful not to disrupt the sites or other travelers. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions regarding appropriate photography during the tour.

Is There an Option to Add a Local Guide to Provide More Insights?

Yes, you can add a local guide to the tour for more insights and cultural perspective. The tour description doesn’t mention this option, but it’s likely available if you request it when booking.

Final Words

This private tour of Easter Island’s legendary Moai statues offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture. With guided visits to iconic sites, insightful commentary, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s an immersive experience not to be missed. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to explore this remarkable destination, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through the enigmatic world of the Moai.

You can check availability for your dates here: