Hanga Roa in 1 Days - Ahu Tongariki — the largest moai platform in Polynesia
In Collaboration with Kapua Tours & Experience. Updated on April 4, 2026.
Explore Rapa Nui’s most iconic sites in a full-day private tour. Visit Ahu Tongariki, the Rano Raraku quarry where moai were carved, Anakena beach and other archaeological sites while learning about the rise and fall of the Rapa Nui civilization from a certified local guide.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Kapua Tours & Experience, inspired by the tour Full Day Private Tour: Factory of the Moai the stone giants. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Ahu Tongariki — the largest moai platform in Polynesia
- Rano Raraku quarry — the moai 'factory'
- Anakena and Ovahe beaches with archaeological remains
- Te Pito Kura sacred site
- Multiple accessible short walks and seated viewpoints
More than 1 itineraries in Hanga Roa.
Itinerary
Day 1
Private full-day tour of Rapa Nui archaeological highlights. Pickup from accommodation in Hanga Roa; tour lasts approximately 6 hours. National Park tickets and lunch are not included; the guide can accompany guests to the park office on request.
Pickup and brief introduction in Hanga Roa
Meet your guide in Hanga Roa. Short orientation about the day, safety notes, and an overview of the archaeological route along the coastal road.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your mobility needs noted before pickup so the guide can assist with boarding/disembarking.
- Carry a small bottle of water in an insulated holder to stay hydrated during short stops.
- Pickup will be 10–15 minutes before the scheduled start time; keep your phone available for the guide to contact you.
Ana Akahanga (site linked to Hotu Matu’a)
Visit the site associated with the island’s first king, Hotu Matu’a. Short walk to view fallen moai and stone platforms while the guide explains the site's significance.
- Monday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, closed shoes — terrain is uneven and may have short, soft ground sections.
- Bring a light jacket; coastal winds can be cool even in spring.
- Rest benches are limited; plan short, gentle walks rather than long hikes.
Ahu One Makihi (unrestored fallen moai)
View an unrestored platform with fallen moai that illustrate pre-restoration conditions and archaeological detail.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- This site is largely in its natural state; watch your step and avoid touching the stones.
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is recommended — shade is minimal.
- The guide will provide contextual explanation from accessible viewpoints; seating may not be available at the immediate site.
Ahu Tongariki — the giants of stone
Visit the largest ceremonial platform on the island featuring 15 restored moai standing along the coast. Time for photos and a guided explanation of its reconstruction and history.
- Monday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- This is a popular viewpoint; arrive with your group to secure a seated/leveled spot for photo-taking.
- Paths are mostly compacted; those needing flat access should follow the main viewing areas indicated by the guide.
- If you have a portable folding seat it can be useful for longer explanations or to rest while enjoying the view.
Rano Raraku — the quarry (the moai factory)
Explore the volcanic slopes where most moai were carved. See statues in various stages of completion and learn about carving and transport techniques.
- Monday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Walking at Rano Raraku involves short uphill and uneven paths; use sensible shoes and go at a comfortable pace.
- There are limited restroom facilities—use facilities in town before departure when possible.
- National Park tickets are required to enter; ensure your ticket is ready or the guide can help you locate the park office.
Ovahe Beach (short viewpoint)
Quick stop to view the small white-sand Ovahe beach framed by red scoria cliffs. A short walk to the viewpoint; not a full beach break.
Tips from local experts:
- The beach access path is short but can be loose; hold onto walking aids if needed.
- Shade is minimal; keep sun protection and water close at hand.
- If you prefer to avoid steps or soft sand, remain at the coastal viewpoint where the guide will explain the geology and history.
Anakena — coral sand beach and archaeological site
Longer stop at Anakena: white sand beach with palm trees, moai, and Ahu Nau Nau nearby. Time for rest, photos, and a picnic-style break (lunch not provided by the tour).
Tips from local experts:
- There are basic facilities and shade at Anakena; bring a small towel or light seat pad for comfort.
- Lunch is not included—consider a packed lunch or light snacks; local vendors may be available but check accessibility.
- Keep an eye on mobility needs when moving between the beach and archaeological platforms; surfaces may be sandy or slightly uneven.
Vaihu — fallen moai and ceremonial platform
Short visit to the Vaihu area to see fallen moai and traditional platforms; the guide will explain local history and the evidence of past conflicts.
Tips from local experts:
- Visit is brief with short, flat walks — good for guests preferring minimal walking.
- There is limited shelter at the site; carry a light layer for wind protection.
- Photography is straightforward from the marked viewing areas; avoid stepping onto the platforms.
Ana Akahanga — additional viewpoint
A follow-up short stop at Ana Akahanga to highlight burial traditions and the fallen moai that illustrate social changes on the island.
- Monday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- This is a cultural and interpretive stop — seating is limited, so plan short standing periods.
- Respect signage and avoid climbing on archaeological features.
- If you use a mobility aid, inform the guide so they can position you at the most accessible viewpoints.
Ahu Tongariki — secondary viewpoint / photo stop
A brief return or secondary viewpoint at Ahu Tongariki for additional photos or different light angles as the group moves along the coast.
- Monday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Short stop intended for photos — the guide will help position the group for level access to viewing areas.
- Watch for gusty coastal wind when setting up cameras or tripods.
- If standing is difficult, request a seated spot from the guide before arriving so arrangements can be made.
Rano Raraku — quick interpretive stop
Short follow-up stop at the quarry to highlight particular moai in progress and to answer any remaining questions about carving techniques.
- Monday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- This is a concise interpretive stop focusing on specific features — bring a small notebook or device if you want to note details.
- Terrain may include short inclines; proceed at a comfortable pace and use the guide’s recommended path.
- Park passes may be checked here; have your ticket ready if you were issued one earlier.
Te Pito Kura — the 'Navel of the World'
Visit Te Pito Kura to view the large fallen moai and the reputed sacred stone; the guide will explain local beliefs and the site's archaeological importance.
- Monday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- The site is compact with short level walks; ideal for guests preferring minimal exertion.
- The round stone may be a photo focus — avoid leaning on or moving any stones out of respect.
- Carry sun protection and a small water bottle for comfort during the explanation period.
Final Anakena stop and return to Hanga Roa
Final beach-side photos or a short rest before returning to Hanga Roa. Wrap-up discussion with the guide and transfer back to accommodation.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow a few minutes to rehydrate and organize personal belongings before boarding the vehicle.
- If you need assistance returning to your accommodation (e.g., help with steps), notify the guide in advance.
- Expect the vehicle transfer time back to Hanga Roa to be included in this final block; rest while the guide handles navigation.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 13 |
| Total Places | 13 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Attraction, Culture, Outdoor, Break |