What you will see in Easter Island during a Sightseeing tour
Imagine standing amidst the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, on an island so isolated yet incomparably enchanting – this is Easter Island. Known to its inhabitants as Rapa Nui, Easter Island holds a treasure trove of mysteries with its colossal stone figures, called moai, that have captured global curiosity. Embarking on a sightseeing tour in this remote paradise with Happytripz promises an adventure that etches itself into your memory.
Moai Statues and Ahu Platforms
Undeniably, the moai statues are the quintessential highlight of any sightseeing tour in Easter Island. These monolithic human figures were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 13th and 16th centuries, symbolizing the living faces of deified ancestors. The tour will take you through various platforms, known as ahu, where these statues stand guard. The largest of these is Ahu Tongariki, where 15 moai stand in a row, commanding respect and awe. See these sentinels up close and ponder over the ancient methods used to move them.
Rano Raraku - The Moai Quarry
Your tour will not miss the Rano Raraku quarry, which is the birthplace of the moai. Here, hundreds of statues linger in various stages of completion, providing a glimpse into the creators' craft. Feel the chill of history as you stroll among the stone giants frozen in time, some of which never made it to their intended ahu. This site's eerie charm is a testament to the island's past ingenuity and remains shrouded in mystery. You can explore more about Rano Raraku on Wikipedia.
Anakena Beach
After reveling in the ancient, your tour shifts to the serenity of Anakena Beach, a perfect spot to unwind. Imagine palm trees swaying above as you walk on white coral sands, with the clear turquoise of the South Pacific Ocean inviting you for a refreshing dip. Here, you will also find moai statues overseeing the beach, ensuring that even your leisurely strolls are accompanied by the island's guardians.
The Ceremonial Village of Orongo
Perched on the rim of the Rano Kau volcano, the village of Orongo serves as the stage for the intriguing Birdman competition, an important cultural event where competitors raced to retrieve the first sooty tern egg of the season. The stone dwellings and petroglyphs here tell the stories of a different era of Rapa Nui culture, one where the birdman cult superseded the moai era.
- The Caves With Petroglyphs: The sightseeing tour also exposes the island's artistic side through a network of caves adorned with petroglyphs. These fragile artworks provide a unique insight into the spiritual life of the Rapa Nui people.
- The Solar Alignment of Ahu Akivi: Unlike other moai statues, the seven moai of Ahu Akivi face seaward and are astronomically aligned. Witnessing the equinox here is said to be a spell-binding experience.
Each twist and turn of Easter Island reveals something spectacular, and Happytripz ensures you immerse fully in the Rapa Nui spirit. On a sightseeing tour with us, you can be sure that you will not only see, but feel, the vibrant pulse of this ancient island. Beyond the scenic vistas, it is the harmony of nature and the whispers of the past that makes Easter Island an eternal muse for travelers seeking the extraordinary.
You might come here as a sightseer, but you'll leave with the spirit of an explorer, having traversed through the heart of one of the world's most enigmatic civilizations. Every stone and scar on this land has a story to tell, and Happytripz is here to guide you through each narrative. So pack your bags and let your curiosity take flight – Easter Island awaits.