Highlights
- Unique sunrise: Watch the sun rise behind the 15 Moai of Ahu Tongariki.
- Stress-free: Pick-up and direct transport from your hotel in Hanga Roa.
- Expert guide: Learn the history of the largest platform on Rapa Nui.
Description
Magical Experience: Sunrise at Ahu Tongariki from Hanga Roa
Discover the most breathtaking natural and cultural show on Easter Island with our sunrise excursion to Ahu Tongariki. Experience an unforgettable moment as you watch the sun rise directly behind the 15 colossal stone statues (Moai), the largest and most majestic ceremonial platform in all of Rapa Nui.
Experience details
Start Point: Direct pick-up from your hotel or accommodation in Hanga Roa.
Departure time: Early morning (approximately 6:00 AM - 6:30 AM, depending on the season).
Total duration: 2.5 to 3 hours.
Language: Spanish and English (expert local guide).
Includes: Round-trip transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle and live tour guide.
Not included: Rapa Nui National Park entrance fee (must be purchased in advance) or breakfast.
Detailed Itinerary
Early pickup in Hanga Roa
We start the day by picking you up comfortably from your accommodation in Hanga Roa. While the island is still asleep, we'll board our vehicle to embark on a leisurely nighttime journey of about 30 minutes to the island's east coast.
Route to the East Coast
During the journey, your local guide will share with you the first explanations about the history of sunrise in Rapa Nui culture, the mystical meaning of the Ahu Tongariki, and recommendations for capturing the best photographs.
Arrival and Positioning at the Ahu Tongariki
We'll arrive at the archaeological site while it's still under the starlight. We'll walk a few meters until we find the perfect position in front of the imposing platform of the 15 Moai. The quiet surroundings and the breeze off the Pacific Ocean create a sacred and moving atmosphere.
The Great Sunrise Show
As the morning progresses, the sky will begin to take on shades of violet, gold, and orange. You'll see the silhouettes of the 15 stone giants gradually emerge against the backlight of the ocean horizon. This is the perfect time to take spectacular photos or simply take in the majesty of the place.
Historical explanation: Ahu Tongariki, its original construction, its destruction by a tsunami in 1960, and the monumental international restoration that returned it to its former glory. You will have free time to walk around the area, appreciate the details of the sculptures, and take pictures in the morning light.
Drop-off in Hanga Roa
After the visit, we'll board the transportation again for your drop-off at your hotel in Hanga Roa, just in time for you to enjoy your breakfast and continue exploring the wonders of the island.
Know before you go
What to bring: Bring warm clothing in layers, a windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes, and your camera or smartphone with a full charge.
National Park: It is essential to present your Rapa Nui National Park entrance ticket when you arrive at the site's checkpoint.
Weather: The sunrise is a natural phenomenon subject to weather conditions.
Includes
What the sightseeing tour includes:
Round-trip transfer: Hassle-free pick-up and drop-off directly at your hotel or accommodation in Hanga Roa.
Comfortable transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned, safe vehicle suitable for nighttime journeys to the east coast of the island.
Expert local guide: Accompaniment throughout the tour by a professional guide (Spanish/English) who will share the history, culture, and legends of Ahu Tongariki.
Free time for photos: Plenty of time at the archaeological site to watch the sunrise and take spectacular photos in the best light of the day.
Excludes
What is NOT included:
Rapa Nui National Park admission ticket: The admission ticket to the park must be purchased in advance by the traveler (mandatory to enter the site).
Food and drinks: Breakfast and snacks are not included; it is recommended that you bring water or a thermos of coffee/tea.
Tips: Optional for the tour guide and driver.
Important Information
- Mandatory ticket: You must purchase the Rapa Nui National Park Ticket in advance (digitally or at the airport); it is not sold at the archaeological site.
Respect for the sacred: It is an ancestral ceremonial center. Stay on the marked trails and respect the silence.
Recommended clothing: Wear warm clothes in layers and a windbreaker; before sunrise, it is usually cold and windy by the sea.
Lighting: Bring your phone's flashlight or a headlamp, as you'll enter the site in total darkness.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
