Puna Pau

Overview

Puna Pau is a volcanic crater on Easter Island known for being the source of the red scoria used to carve the pukao (topknots) for the island's famous moai statues. It offers a unique insight into the island's ancient Rapa Nui culture and its stoneworking techniques.

Puna Pau is significant for its role in the creation of the pukao, which were placed on top of many of the island's moai, representing their spiritual energy. It provides valuable information about the Rapa Nui people's advanced stoneworking skills.

Cultural Site Historical Site

Location

Address

Puna Pau, Easter Island, Hanga Roa, Valparaíso

Neighborhood: Puna Pau

Coordinates

-27.112200, -109.362700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$10000 CLP

Children

$5000 CLP

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April to June

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half day (including nearby sites)

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Pleasant, mild temperatures

• Wildflowers
• Lush greenery

summer

Warm and humid

• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cooler, pleasant

• Clear skies
• Cool breezes

winter

Cool, sometimes rainy

• Misty mornings
• Cozy evenings

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID Water Tickets

seasonal

Jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Large bags Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Uneven terrain
• Sun exposure

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Cards

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Typical Costs

entry $5000 CLP

parking $1000 CLP

food $3000 CLP

souvenirs $5000 CLP

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, Walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• Official website
• 48 hours
• Available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Rapa Nui Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Mataveri International Airport (IPC)

Distance: 3 km

Travel Time: 10 minutes

taxi

$5000 CLP 10 min

public_transport

$500 CLP 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 1.5 km

walking

$0 20 min

taxi

$3000 CLP 5 min

bicycle

$0 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historical and cultural significance

Historical Significance: Source of pukao for moai statues

Insider Tips

Best views at sunrise
Great spot for sunset

Local Recommendations

• Try local ceviche
• Ask for guide Mario

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Maururu

where_is Ehe?

how_much E pehe koe?

beautiful Maita'i

ticket Tiketí

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Rapa Nui

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Crater rim

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Spectacular views of the crater and surrounding landscape

#PunaPau #EasterIsland #RapaNui

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Restricted sections

flash photography Not allowed in certain areas

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited without special permit

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Rano Raraku

Distance: 3.5 km

Walking: 45 min

Type: Archaeological Site

Ahu Akivi

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour