You can discover some of Easter Island's amazing artifacts without traveling far from Hanga Roa. Cave paintings, petroglyphs, and several ceremonial sites await you. Check out the lake inside the crater of the Rano Kau volcano, which measures a mile across. Plan for an entire day to explore these sites. It's best to have a 4 wheel drive vehicle, as the grave roads can be a bit tricky.

Ahu Akivi:
Restored in 1960, the seven moai that stand at this ahu are among a handful that face the sea rather than facing inland. They are believed to represent seven native explorers sent out on a mission by ancient King Hotu Matu'a.

Ahu Huri a Urenga:
Scientists believe that this ahu, located inland rather than at the edge of the sea, is oriented to face the winter solstice. This sole moai at this ahu is unique because it has two sets of hands, one set believed to have been carved after the other was damaged during transport to its resting place.

Ahu Te Peu:
This site has a great example of stonework reminiscent of ancient Inca societies. Several boat-shaped houses can be seen amidst the ruins at this location, one of which measures 131 feet in length. From this site, you can embark on the 6 hour trail that leads to the northern coast's Playa Anakena.

Ahu Vinapu:
Ahu Vinapu's moai still lie where they were toppled. While at first glance the site is unimpressive, you'll have the opposite impression if you take a closer look. The stonework on the platforms where the moai once stood may have been influenced by traditional Inca stonework, perhaps indicating contact with early Peruvian cultures. Or, the Rapa Nui settlers may have perfected their own masonry techniques. Either way, the site's exceptional stone work is reminiscent of that of Machu Picchu, and is definitely worth a visit.

Ana Kai Tangata:
This cavern on the coast is home to the island's only cave paintings-namely birds in flight. It's accessibly from Hanga Roa and is definitely worth a visit.

Ana Te Pahu:
These caverns were once home to Easter Islanders. A tropical plant grove now exists in the fissure where the caves begin. Look for banana trees at the entrance.

Orongo:
Orongo is a ceremonial village just south of Hanga Roa where 48 oval huts were occupied only during times of worship of the god Makemake. Built in 1600 and used until 1866, the site is now used during the two-week Tapati Rapa Nui Festival that honors the island's Polynesian heritage. The site was once the starting point for a competition in which representatives from each village would compete to become the island's "bird man," a highly coveted title. One representative from each clan would swim just under a mile to nearby Moto Nui islet, search for the egg of the nesting Sooty Tern, and swim back. The first person to return with an egg unbroken was named Tangata Manu, or bird-man. The winner was led to the Rano Raraku crater where he remained in isolation for the entire year. This was among the greatest honors one could attain in the name of his clan.

Orongo is the only archaeological site on the island where you'll have to pay an entrance fee, as it's managed by CONAF, or National Parks of Chile. The $10 pass lets you into Rapa Nui National Park, and the small fee goes toward preservation of all of the island's heritage sites.

Rano Kau:
This large volcano created part of Easter Island when it rose from the sea many years ago. The crater offers beautiful views of Hanga Roa, and you won't have to hike far to find them. Around the edges of Rano Kau's crater are petroglyphs depicting the birdman, as the ceremonial town of Orongo is located nearby. This is a perfect spot to bring a picnic lunch and take in the view.

---

Get the most from your vacation in Chile.
Let the travel professionals at AR Tourism arrange the perfect vacation for you, while saving you money and eliminating the inconvenience of handling overseas arrangements.
AR Tourism - Chile Vacation Travel Agency

 Easter Island Overview

 Highlights
   Western Side
   Southern Side
   Beaches
   Sports Activities

 Hanga Roa
   Lodging
   Dining
   Shopping

 History
   Tapati Rapa Nui Festival
   Easter Island Artifacts

 Transportation

Visit Easter Island

Enjoy the best hotels, tours and activities when you visit beautiful Easter Island on a vacation organized by AR Tourism Chile.
> More