Shore Excursion: Easter Island Highlights for Cruise Passengers
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join a small group of up to 8 people and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Easter Island with this shore excursion. From ancient Moai statues to breathtaking coastal viewpoints, our tour covers the island’s must-see highlights at a fair price. We’ll take care of all the logistics so you can relax and enjoy the journey. Our team will be waiting for you at the pier before the first tender arrives, holding a sign with your name. Once the group is assembled, we’ll begin the tour, and at the end we’ll return you safely to the pier in time to board your tender before the ship departs.
Available options
Tour without ticket
What's included
Bilingual guide (English & Spanish)
Pier pickup and drop-off
Professional Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This is the only volcanic cone tuff quarry existing on the island. This material allowed the construction of the moai on a larger scale. Rano Raraku houses the quarry where the moai were built and from where they were moved to the ahu (ceremonial platforms) in the island.
2
Stop 2
Located opposite to Rano Raraku this is the largest platform from all of the reconstructed on the island. The ahu Tongariki is the most imposing moai platform in the island. This altar has fifteen visible standing statues overlooking the island with their backs to the Pacific Ocean.
3
Stop 3
This beach is characterized by warm turquoise waters and coral sand. It is the main beach of the island and used to be the ancestral residence of the Miru Araki royal family. The ahu Nau Nau is undoubtedly one of the most accomplished Ahu of the island because of the refinement of its moai.
4
Stop 4
O'rongo village is located on one side of the Rano Kau volcano crater. Its spectacular scenic location, its archaeological and historic relevance, the diversity and complexity of the site, make Orongo village one of the most important attractions of the island. It's one of the two main sites on the island as in this place was celebrated the Birdman ceremony. It also has a visitor reception center with a permanent interpretive exhibition.
5
Located in the southwest side of the island the crater of this volcano is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes of Rapa Nui. With 1.5 Km large this crater is the biggest reserve of endemic flora of Rapa Nui and it lake served as an important source of drinking water in ancient times.
6
Stop 6
One of the very few ceremonial platforms not located by the sea. Its seven moais have been restored to their standing position by the archaeologists William Mulloy and Gonzalo Figueroa along with the Rapa Nui community. These moai have the particularity of having astronomical positioning guidance and look towards the setting sun
What's not included
Lunch
Entrance fee to Rapa nui national park
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Our team will be ready at the pier ahead of the first tender’s arrival, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. Once all participants are assembled, the tour will begin. At the end of the experience, we’ll return you to the pier in time to board the tender before your ship’s departure.
About Easter Island
Easter Island, known as Rapa Nui to its native inhabitants, is a remote volcanic island in the Pacific Ocean. It is famous for its nearly 1,000 extant monumental statues called moai, created by the early Rapa Nui people. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique blend of Polynesian culture, archaeological wonders, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Top Attractions
Ahu Tongariki
This is the largest ahu (ceremonial platform) on Easter Island, featuring 15 restored moai statues. It's a must-visit for its impressive size and historical significance.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (included in national park entry fee)
Rano Raraku
Rano Raraku is the quarry where most of the moai statues were carved. It's an archaeological site with numerous moai in various stages of completion.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (included in national park entry fee)
Ahu Akivi
This ahu is unique because it faces the ocean, unlike most others that face inland. It features seven moai statues and is one of the few ahus not restored by archaeologists.
Historical
1 hour
Free (included in national park entry fee)
Orongo
Orongo is a ceremonial village with stone houses and petroglyphs. It was used for the annual Tangata Manu (Bird Man) cult ceremony.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (included in national park entry fee)
Ana Kai Tangata
This sea cave is known for its ancient petroglyphs and was used by the Rapa Nui people for shelter and ceremonial purposes.
Historical
1 hour
Free (included in national park entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Umu Rapa Nui
A traditional Rapa Nui feast cooked in an underground oven, featuring a variety of meats, fish, and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat and seafood, may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Po'e
A sweet pudding made from banana, pumpkin, or breadfruit, cooked with sugar and coconut milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian, may contain dairy.
Ika Mata
A raw fish salad marinated in lime juice, coconut milk, and spices, similar to ceviche.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
ATV tours
Beach relaxation
Sunset watching
Yoga
Traditional umu feasts
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the summer season, with warm temperatures and the highest rainfall. It's the best time for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
20°C to 28°C
68°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Rapa Nui (local language)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLT (Chile Standard Time, GMT-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Easter Island is generally safe with low crime rates. However, petty theft can occur, so it's important to take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night.
Getting there
By air
- Matairi International Airport • 1.5 km from Hanga Roa
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available but not extensive. They are a budget-friendly option for getting around the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hanga Roa
Day trips
Motu Nui
30 km from Hanga Roa • Full day
A small island known for its birdlife and historical significance. It was a key location in the Bird Man cult ceremonies.
Motu Iti
25 km from Hanga Roa • Full day
A small island known for its beautiful beaches and snorkeling opportunities.
Rano Kau
15 km from Hanga Roa • Half day
A volcanic crater offering stunning views of the island and the Pacific Ocean. It's also home to the ceremonial village of Orongo.
Festivals
Tapati Festival • January or February (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Book your accommodations and tours well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Rent a car or bike to explore the island at your own pace.
- Try the local cuisine, including traditional umu feasts.
- Respect the moai statues and other cultural sites by not touching or climbing on them.
- Bring enough cash for small purchases and remote areas, as ATMs may not be readily available.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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