Easter Island stands out as one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological destinations. Its iconic Moai statues, mysterious Rapa Nui culture, and remote location make it a natural place for full-day tours that go beyond the usual highlights. These trips are perfect for travelers eager to uncover secrets, myths, and stories that bring the island’s enigmatic past to life. Instead of just rushing from site to site, these tours offer a deep dive into hidden sites and lesser-known histories, giving you a richer experience of this remote island. Whether you’re interested in uncovering the forgotten stories of Rapa Nui or exploring the iconic Moai in detail, there’s a tour here that can match your curiosity and pace.
While some tours focus on the main Moai sites, others explore the secrets behind the island’s archaeological wonders or visit hidden spots that most visitors miss. And with options that include private, guided experiences, you can choose a journey tailored to your interests—whether that’s a comprehensive history or a more personalized discovery. The key is to find a tour that fits your time, budget, and level of adventure, so you leave with not just photos but a real sense of the island’s mysteries.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find two top full-day tours in Easter Island. Both are highly rated and designed to give you a comprehensive and intimate look at the island’s most iconic and secret sites. For those who want a private, in-depth experience, the Easter Island: Private Full Day History Of The Moai offers an expertly guided journey into hidden corners and stories. If you prefer a slightly more flexible, personalized private tour, the Easter Island: Moai Full Day Private Tour provides an equally engaging experience with a focus on mythical and enigmatic sites.
1. Easter Island: Private Full Day History Of The Moai
At number one on our list, the Private Full Day History of the Moai tour is perfect for travelers who want an intimate, detailed exploration of Easter Island’s most mysterious sites. This 7-hour journey takes you beyond the standard tourist spots to uncover secluded, forgotten, and secret locations. Starting with a pickup on Easter Island, the tour includes a guided visit to Hanga Roa, followed by stops at major sites like Ahu Akahanga and Ahu One Makihi, both known for their lesser-visited, yet culturally significant, Moai platforms.
The tour shines in its focus on hidden stories and secrets of Rapa Nui. For example, the visit to Rano Raraku, the quarry where most Moai were carved, lasts for about 2 hours, allowing ample time to explore its massive stone statues and lesser-known carvings. The trip also features visits to Ahu Tongariki and Ovahe, offering stunning photo opportunities and insights into the island’s monumental history. Concluding at Anakena beach, the tour also gives you time to walk and reflect on the mysteries of the island.
Guests praise the guide’s deep knowledge and attentive service, with one review citing how “Simon kindly waited when our tender arrived late” and shared insights into the island’s culture. The tour’s focus on lesser-known sites makes it ideal for travelers seeking a more exclusive and detailed understanding. Expect a slower pace, personalized stories, and an experience that reveals the secrets many visitors miss.
Bottom Line: This tour offers unmatched depth and access for anyone eager to uncover Easter Island’s hidden stories. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those who want a personalized, intimate experience.
2. Easter Island: Moai Full Day Private Tour
Coming in second, the Moai Full Day Private Tour is equally rated at 4.6/5 and offers a comprehensive look at Easter Island’s most iconic statues and sites. This 7-hour private journey is designed to provide a flexible, customized experience, tailored to your interests and pace. The tour covers major Moai sites like Ahu Tongariki, Anakena, and other less-frequented locations that hold cultural significance.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on mythical and enigmatic sites. The guide shares stories about the mystery behind the Moai’s creation and transport, and visits secret spots that reveal new insights into Rapa Nui culture. The itinerary allows for plenty of time at each stop, including photo sessions and discussion of theories surrounding the statues. The tour also emphasizes hidden stories and local legends, providing a richer understanding of the island’s mysteries and cultural depth.
Guests often remark on the personalized service and the guide’s extensive knowledge. For example, one review notes how the guide’s 25 years of experience enhances every stop, making each site come alive with stories. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a more private, flexible experience that balances iconic sights with secret stories.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a customized, private exploration of the Moai and want to learn about the enigma behind the statues, this tour hits the mark.
How to Choose
When selecting between these tours, consider your interest in hidden stories versus iconic sites. The Private Full Day History of the Moai leans toward uncovering secluded sites and secret histories, making it ideal for travelers eager to get off the beaten path. The Moai Full Day Private Tour offers a more flexible and personalized experience focused on the main Moai, with a deep dive into mythical and cultural stories.
Budget-wise, both tours are priced at $219 per person, offering good value for private, guided experiences that include multiple significant sites and expert narration. If you’re pressed for time but want a rich, focused experience, both options are excellent. For those interested in hidden sites and secrets, the first tour’s detailed itinerary might be better. If a more iconic, customizable experience is your preference, the second offers that flexibility.
Booking early is recommended, as these popular private tours fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Both provide detailed, immersive encounters with Easter Island’s monumental past—a worthwhile investment for history lovers and adventurers alike.
In summary, whether you choose a tour focused on hidden corners and secrets or one that offers a personalized journey through the Moai, you’ll leave Easter Island with a deeper appreciation of its mysteries and cultural richness. For those seeking a detailed, intimate exploration, the Private Full Day History of the Moai is a superb choice. If you want a more flexible, myth-focused itinerary, then the Moai Full Day Private Tour will serve you well. Either way, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching experiences.