Historic Pathways Tour

Unearth some of the gems of Easter Island´s fascinating past with stops at several significant sites of interest. Head to Puna Pau, the small crater that acted as the scoria quarry for the moai's famous topknots, before continuing to the site of the island´s most intricate stone work at Ahu Tahira in Vinapu, where the moai platform is reminiscent of the legendary masonry of the Incas of South America. Take in the breathtaking views of the giant cauldron of Rano Kau, a miniature ecosystem and the largest volcano crater on the island.

Experience the wind on your face at the clifftop ceremonial village of Orongo, and discover the significance of the Birdman Cult that emerged out of the ruins of the Moai building era. Peer off the precipice at the ocean below where once a year during the Birdman competition, brave warriors from the island's various clans would climb down the steep rocky cliffs to the swirling ocean below and swim out to the small islets off the coast in an attempt to bring back the first egg of the manutara bird, therefore winning the right for their clan to rule the island for the following year. Finish the day with a visit to Ahu Akivi, the renowned seven inland moai that stand gazing oceanwards, and visit the area near Ana Kai Tangata. 
 

This excursion can be done as a private tour or as a small group tour. The Historic Pathways small group tour usually runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (8 people max). Pick-up from your lodgings is between 9 - 9:30am (small group). Lunch is not included in the tour, but there is an opportunity to have lunch at a small restaurant in Hanga Roa halfway through the day.