Birdman Ceremonial Route: Orongo, Ranu Kau Half-Day Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Easter Island’s ceremonial heart on this half-day tour. Begin at Orongo, site of the legendary Birdman Ceremony, symbolizing power, wisdom, and connection to the ancestors. Continue to Ranu Kau, the volcanic crater with panoramic views, and finish at Ahu Vinapu, showcasing ancient Rapa Nui architectural mastery. A journey of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Pickup and drop-off from Hanga Roa hotels are included.
Available options
Birdman Ceremonial Route: Orongo, Ranu Kau Half-Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Transport by air-conditioned van or bus
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover the ceremonial heart of Easter Island on this captivating half-day tour filled with history, culture, and mystery.
Begin at the Orongo Ceremonial Village, the site of the legendary Birdman Ceremony (Tangata Manu). Ancient Rapa Nui competed to retrieve the first egg of the manutara bird on Motu Nui, a ritual symbolizing power, wisdom, and spiritual connection with ancestors and nature.
2
Continue to Ranu Kau, the stunning volcanic crater offering panoramic views of the ocean and Motu Nui. This site is not only visually spectacular but also of ceremonial importance, as it served as the stage for the Birdman competition and symbolizes the Rapa Nui people’s deep bond with the sea.
3
The tour concludes at Ahu Vinapu, an archaeological site showcasing the expert craftsmanship of the ancient moai builders and their advanced architectural techniques, with hints of pre-Incan influence.
This tour combines history, archaeology, and breathtaking landscapes, offering a profound and memorable insight into Easter Island’s ancestral culture.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Entrance fee to Rapa Nui National Park
Transfers from the pier
Rapa Nui National Park
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Remember that this excursion is not a private tour
It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring water and snacks
Note: Port pickup is not available. This tour is not suitable for passengers coming by cruise.
Entrance Fee Information – Rapa Nui National Park Passengers traveling to Easter Island are required to pay an entrance fee of USD 100 to visit the Rapa Nui National Park. The ticket can be purchased: - Upon arrival at the CONAF Office inside Mataveri Airport, or - Online in advance through the official website. The entrance fee is valid for 10 consecutive days from the date of purchase and must be presented when visiting archaeological sites during our tours. We recommend purchasing the ticket with the date of your first tour, so you can make the most of the 10-day validity period. Please remember to download the ticket to your phone or carry a printed copy, as internet access is limited in most tourist areas of the island
Excursions can be modified by weather conditions
About Hanga Roa
Hanga Roa is the main town and capital of Easter Island, known for its mysterious Moai statues and rich Polynesian culture. This remote island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, archaeological wonders, and a laid-back island lifestyle.
Top Attractions
Ahahu Tahai
An ancient ceremonial site with restored Moai statues and a beautiful sunset view.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Rano Raraku
The quarry where most of the Moai statues were carved. It offers a unique insight into the island's history.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (entry fee)
Ahu Tongariki
The largest ahu (ceremonial platform) on Easter Island, featuring 15 restored Moai statues.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee)
Anakena Beach
The most famous beach on Easter Island, known for its white sand and clear waters.
Beach
Half-day
Free
Orongo
A ceremonial village with a rich history, offering stunning views of the island's coastline.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Curanto
A traditional Rapa Nui dish cooked in an underground oven, featuring a mix of meats, seafood, and vegetables.
Main Dish
Contains meat and seafood, can be adapted for vegetarian/vegan
Po'e
A sweet banana pudding made from bananas, sugar, and sometimes coconut milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian, can be vegan with substitutions
Ika Mata
Raw fish marinated in citrus juice, similar to ceviche, often served with vegetables.
Appetizer
Contains fish, can be made with other seafood
Popular Activities
Hiking
Scuba diving
Surfing
Beach lounging
Yoga
Spa treatments
Visiting archaeological sites
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the summer season with warm temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant festivals. It's the best time for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Rapa Nui (local Polynesian language), English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLST (Chile Summer Time, GMT-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hanga Roa is generally safe with low crime rates, but travelers should take standard precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Mata Uri Airport • 2 km from city center
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are not extensive but can be used for some routes around the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hanga Piko
Vaihua
Mataveri
Day trips
Rano Kau
3 km from Hanga Roa • Half-day
A volcanic crater offering stunning views of the island and the Pacific Ocean.
Ana Kai Tangata
12 km from Hanga Roa • Half-day
A cave with ancient petroglyphs and a rich history of cannibalism.
Vaihu
18 km from Hanga Roa • Full-day
An archaeological site with restored Moai statues and ahu platforms.
Festivals
Tapati Festival • January or February (varies yearly)
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies yearly)
Pro tips
- Book accommodation and tours well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Rent a car or bike to explore the island at your own pace.
- Visit the Moai statues early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Try the local cuisine, especially the traditional Curanto.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and be mindful of the island's fragile environment.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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