Rano Raraku

Overview

Rano Raraku is a volcanic crater on Easter Island and is the site where nearly all of the island's famous Moai statues were carved. The site is a must-visit for its historical significance and the breathtaking views of the statues still in production.

Rano Raraku is the primary site where the Moai statues were carved and provides significant insights into the Rapa Nui culture and their stoneworking techniques.

Historical Site Cultural Site

Location

Address

Easter Island, Valparaíso

Neighborhood: Rano Raraku

Coordinates

-27.114000, -109.358000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$10 USD

Children

$5 USD

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

• Wildflowers
• Clear skies

summer

Warm and humid

• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Clear skies
• Mild temperatures

winter

Cool and humid

• Cooler temperatures
• Fewer tourists

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring water and sunscreen
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

ID Water Sunscreen Tickets

seasonal

Jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Drones Large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Uneven terrain
• Dehydration risk

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Typical Costs

entry $10 USD

parking $5 USD

food $15 USD

souvenirs $20 USD

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes and clothing, Walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week
• Official website or authorized tour operators
• 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

Easter Island Explorer

Size: 60 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Mata Utu International Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

$40 30 min

public_transport

$5 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$2 15 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Deep cultural and historical significance

Historical Significance: Primary site of Moai statue production

Insider Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds
Bring cash for local vendors and guides

Local Recommendations

• Try local food at the nearby cafes
• Ask for a local guide to learn more about the site

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia Orana

thank_you Maururu

where_is Ehe?...e?

how_much E here aha?

beautiful Mauruuru

ticket Tiket

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Rapa Nui

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Moai statues in the quarry

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Low angle for dramatic shots

Result: Iconic Moai photos

#EasterIsland #Moai #RanoRaraku

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Quarry sites

prohibited areas Restricted archaeological sites

flash photography Not allowed in certain areas

commercial photography Permit needed for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Ahu Tongariki

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Archaeological Site

Rano Kau

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Volcanic Crater

Ahu Vinapu

Distance: 2km

Walking: 30 min