Itinerary through the must-see spots of Rapa Nui
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
Moai, volcanoes, and beaches in 2 unforgettable days
2 DAYS
Welcome to Rapa Nui (Easter Island), the most isolated inhabited place on the planet and a treasure of humanity declared by UNESCO. This island of volcanic origin is famous for its enigmatic ancestral culture, whose greatest testimony is the
TEMPORADA RECOMENDADA
ATRACTIVOS
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
The path of the moai
We will begin the first day by visiting the largest ceremonial platform on the island, the Ahu Tongariki. Admiring its fifteen majestic moai standing against the ocean is one of the most striking images of Rapa Nui. The scale of this restored structure will immediately connect you with the power of the ancient civilization that built it.
Then, you will head to the most crucial place in Rapa Nui culture: the Rano Raraku volcano. Known as the “moai factory,” here you will walk through the quarries where almost all the statues were sculpted. You will see nearly 400 moai in different phases of elaboration, some still attached to the rock, in an open-air museum that will leave you speechless.
End your day at Anakena beach. With its white sand, palm trees, and turquoise waters, it is the perfect place to relax and swim. In addition, on the same beach is the Ahu Nau Nau, with its finely detailed moai, creating a setting that perfectly blends archeology and tropical paradise.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
The path of the moai
We will begin the first day by visiting the largest ceremonial platform on the island, the Ahu Tongariki. Admiring its fifteen majestic moai standing against the ocean is one of the most striking images of Rapa Nui. The scale of this restored structure will immediately connect you with the power of the ancient civilization that built it.
Then, you will head to the most crucial place in Rapa Nui culture: the Rano Raraku volcano. Known as the “moai factory,” here you will walk through the quarries where almost all the statues were sculpted. You will see nearly 400 moai in different phases of elaboration, some still attached to the rock, in an open-air museum that will leave you speechless.
End your day at Anakena beach. With its white sand, palm trees, and turquoise waters, it is the perfect place to relax and swim. In addition, on the same beach is the Ahu Nau Nau, with its finely detailed moai, creating a setting that perfectly blends archeology and tropical paradise.
Day 2
Orongo and sunset in Tahai
Dedicate your second day to learning about the fascinating history of the “birdman cult.” You will ascend to the edge of the impressive crater of the Rano Kau volcano to visit the ceremonial village of Orongo. From this point, with spectacular views of the ocean and neighboring islets, you will learn about the incredible competition that defined the leader of the island each year.
In the afternoon, you will travel to the interior of Rapa Nui to see the Ahu Akivi, a unique platform whose seven moai are the only ones that face the ocean. Legend has it that they represent the first seven explorers who arrived on the island, sent by King Hotu Matu’a. Therefore, it is a site directly connected with the origins of the people.
The end of the trip will be magical. You will head to the ceremonial complex of Ahu Tahai, located steps from the town of Hanga Roa. This is the best place on the island to watch the sunset: seeing it hide behind the moais on the Pacific horizon is an unforgettable experience.
Day 2
Orongo and sunset in Tahai
Dedicate your second day to learning about the fascinating history of the “birdman cult.” You will ascend to the edge of the impressive crater of the Rano Kau volcano to visit the ceremonial village of Orongo. From this point, with spectacular views of the ocean and neighboring islets, you will learn about the incredible competition that defined the leader of the island each year.
In the afternoon, you will travel to the interior of Rapa Nui to see the Ahu Akivi, a unique platform whose seven moai are the only ones that face the ocean. Legend has it that they represent the first seven explorers who arrived on the island, sent by King Hotu Matu’a. Therefore, it is a site directly connected with the origins of the people.
The end of the trip will be magical. You will head to the ceremonial complex of Ahu Tahai, located steps from the town of Hanga Roa. This is the best place on the island to watch the sunset: seeing it hide behind the moais on the Pacific horizon is an unforgettable experience.
What you should know
How to get there by air
The only way to arrive is by flying to Mataveri International Airport from Santiago, Chile. The flight lasts approximately 5 and a half hours. Book well in advance, especially in high season.
How to get there by land
To get around the island, the most common thing is to hire a guided tour, which optimizes time and learning. You can also rent a car, jeep, or motorcycle. The distances are short, but some routes are dirt roads.
Climate and clothing
Rapa Nui has a subtropical climate. The weather is very changeable, so it is recommended to dress in layers. Bring light clothing, a raincoat, plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
Must-Know Tips
It is mandatory to buy a National Park ticket and hire a certified local guide for archaeological sites such as Rano Raraku and Orongo.
